How to Recycle Car Materials
When the expense of fixing a car part outweighs the value of the car, recycling and reselling the usable materials is an environmentally-friendly way of disposing of the car. Recycling car parts saves about 85 million barrels of oil each year and reduces the need for mining raw materials. You can make extra money by reselling your car materials on an auction site or you can donate what is not sold and receive an added tax deduction.
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Instructions
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Separate all recyclable or reusable car materials. Brake pads, shoes, windshields and glass are all recyclable. Even broken parts can be recycled; many recycling centers accept tires, used oil filters and transmissions. Car accessories like sound systems and rims are also often made of recyclable materials like plastic and steel.
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Clean all car materials you wish to recycle and resell. Most used car parts retailers and recycling centers will only accept car materials that are in good condition.
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Find a used car parts retailer in your area and determine if he will buy used car materials. Going online and finding sites that sell used car materials is another option, if you cannot find a local retailer. Be prepared to provide pictures as well as descriptions of each part you want to resell online.
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Ask local charities about donation. Many charitable organizations accept car materials or entire vehicles and some will offer to pick up your car for free. Ask about receiving a receipt for tax deduction purposes.
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Recycle all other car materials at your nearest recycling center. Car seats and floor mats, for example, are made of recyclable materials like steel, plastic and aluminum.
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Tips & Warnings
Use auction sites to sell your used car materials.
Your local city government is an excellent resource when looking for a recycling center.
Some recycling centers have specific criteria for accepting car materials -- such as draining engine oil and coolant. Obtain all necessary details before taking your car to a recycling center.
Use caution when taking apart a car. Car parts can be heavy and dangerous if not handled properly.
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