avoiding the soccer mom minivan

Need to Get Rid of Your Old Clunker? What to Do with It

If you have an old vehicle that you drove for years, and you are finally ready to let it go, you may be wondering how to get the most money out of the old clunker. If you don't think that you can sell it for a large profit or think that perhaps no one would want to buy it at all, then you'll want to look into the other options that are available. Here are a few of the possibilities to get rid of the car and the benefits of each option.

Auto Salvage Yard

Taking the vehicle to an auto salvage yard where it will be scrapped for the metal may be the most profitable way to get rid of the vehicle if you don't think anyone will want to purchase it. Look at taking off the catalytic converter first to sell separately, along with any other important mechanical components that may be worth some value, like the transmission or radiator. You may be able to sell a few pieces in advance for profit. Call companies such as Fox Valley Iron Metal & Auto Salvage Inc to see what their current prices are. 

Local Shelter or Adult Donation Center

Donating the vehicle to a local charity is a great way to get a write-off for your taxes, especially if the vehicle is worth a few hundred dollars. You can call around to different shelters, adult rehabilitation centers, and other facilities that are catered to help adults who are in need to see who needs a vehicle.

 Trade

Someone who has something of high value, like a new or high-tech electronic device, a sports recreation vehicle, or another valuable item may be looking for a car. If their need for a vehicle that runs is greater than the need for their accessory, you may be able to trade them. This is a great way to get something that you don't have without having to make the effort to sell or donate the car. You can trade and walk away from the vehicle knowing it's getting good use again.

These are a few of the ways that you can get rid of that old clunker that doesn't run well anymore. If you want to get something out of it because you made the investment to purchase it years in the past, then any of these options should be able to put some money back in your pockets or get you something great that you don't already have but want. 


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