The most valuable parts of a car depend on the make, model, and demand for used parts, but some components consistently hold high resale value.
The Top Most Valuable Car Parts You Can Sell For Cash
- Catalytic Converter ($100–$1,500+)
- The most valuable part due to the precious metals inside (platinum, palladium, and rhodium).
- Some high-end or hybrid vehicles have converters worth over $1,500.
- Engine & Transmission ($500–$5,000)
- If the engine or transmission is in working condition, reselling it can bring big money.
- Even damaged ones can be rebuilt or sold for parts.
- Airbags ($200–$500 per unit)
- Unused or undamaged airbags can be sold to repair shops or online.
Certain brands and models have high resale demand.
- Unused or undamaged airbags can be sold to repair shops or online.
- Rims & Tires ($50–$1,000)
- Alloy wheels, especially from premium brands, have strong resale value.
Even used tires with good tread can be sold separately.
- Alloy wheels, especially from premium brands, have strong resale value.
- GPS & Infotainment System ($100–$1,000)
- Built-in navigation systems and touchscreen infotainment units are valuable.
Older models still in demand can be sold for several hundred dollars.
- Built-in navigation systems and touchscreen infotainment units are valuable.
- Seats & Interior Components ($100–$1,500)
- Leather seats, dashboards, center consoles, and door panels can be worth good money.
Sports cars and luxury vehicles have high-demand interior parts.
- Leather seats, dashboards, center consoles, and door panels can be worth good money.
- Alternator & Starter Motor ($50–$300)
- Essential components for any vehicle—rebuilt or used ones sell well.
- Battery ($20–$200)
- Hybrid and EV batteries are worth the most ($500–$5,000+), while standard car batteries can be scrapped for lead value.
- Headlights & Taillights ($50–$500)
- OEM (original) lights are worth more than aftermarket replacements.
- A/C Compressor ($100–$400)
- A working compressor is valuable to people repairing their A/C system.
Maximizing Your Profit
- Sell parts individually instead of scrapping the whole car.
- List parts online on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist.
- Check demand; some parts, like catalytic converters, are worth more due to precious metal prices.
By parting out a junk car instead of selling it whole, you can make significantly more money, especially if you remove and sell high-value components yourself.