Got an old car sitting in your driveway, collecting dust and rust? Maybe it won’t start anymore, or the rego’s expired and it’s not worth fixing. Whatever the reason, it’s become one of those “I’ll deal with it later” problems. The good news? Car removal services are here to take that burden off your hands—fast, easy, and often with cash in your pocket.
But have you ever wondered what actually happens to your vehicle after it’s towed away? Let’s take a look behind the scenes at how car removal services handle unwanted vehicles—from the moment you call to the final step of recycling.
Step 1: You Make the Call or Book Online
The process starts with you. You either call the car removal company or book online by providing basic details like:
- Your car’s make, model, and condition
- Whether it’s running or not
- Your location
- Whether you have the registration or keys
Don’t worry if your car is a rust bucket or missing parts—most car removal services will still take it.
Real talk: Many companies offer same-day pickup and pay cash on the spot. That’s especially helpful if you need the car gone quickly or are moving house.
Step 2: Vehicle Assessment and Instant Quote
Once you give the details, the company will usually provide a no-obligation quote. This quote depends on:
- The vehicle’s weight (for scrap metal value)
- Reusable parts
- Current market rates for metal recycling
- Whether the car can be resold or is only good for scrap
If your car’s a write-off or no longer roadworthy, its value usually comes from the recyclable materials and salvageable parts.
💡 Pro tip: Get a few quotes from local removal companies. The prices can vary, and you might get a better deal just by asking.
Step 3: Free Pickup and Towing
If you accept the quote, the company will arrange a convenient pickup time. A tow truck arrives—often within hours—to collect the vehicle. You don’t even have to be mechanically minded or push the car out onto the street. The tow truck operator handles everything.
Most reputable car removal services offer:
- Free towing
- Paperwork assistance (especially for unregistered or deregistered vehicles)
- Instant payment (cash or bank transfer)
Fun fact: Some customers are surprised to learn that their dead car, which hasn’t moved in years, can still fetch up to $9,999 depending on make, model, and demand for parts.
Step 4: Transport to the Wrecking Yard
After the vehicle is loaded, it’s taken to a licensed auto wrecking yard. This is where the real work begins. The car isn’t just dumped—it goes through a detailed process designed to maximise reuse and minimise environmental harm.
Step 5: Dismantling & Salvaging Parts
Skilled mechanics and dismantlers inspect the vehicle to identify parts that can be reused or resold. These often include:
- Engines and transmissions
- Alternators and starters
- Headlights and tail lights
- Doors, bumpers, mirrors, and tyres
These components are removed, tested, and cleaned before being resold in the second-hand parts market.
Story time: One of our customers had an old Toyota Corolla that didn’t run anymore. We removed it, salvaged the engine, battery, and two good tyres, and those parts ended up helping three different cars stay on the road—all from one unwanted vehicle.
Step 6: Fluid Drainage and Environmental Safety
Before anything else, all harmful fluids are drained safely and properly. This includes:
- Engine oil
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Coolant
- Fuel
These fluids are either recycled or disposed of according to strict environmental regulations. No shortcuts here—responsible disposal protects our soil, waterways, and wildlife.
Step 7: Metal Recycling
After parts are removed and fluids drained, the remaining car body (called the “shell”) is crushed and sent to a metal recycling facility. Here, it’s shredded and sorted into different metals, such as:
- Steel
- Aluminium
- Copper
These materials are then processed and reused in manufacturing everything from new cars to building materials—helping reduce the need for raw mining and conserving resources.
Step 8: Paperwork & De-registration (if needed)
Depending on your state and the condition of the car, the removal company might also assist with de-registering the vehicle. You’ll usually need to:
- Fill out a disposal form
- Notify the road authority (VicRoads, RMS, etc.)
- Cancel your insurance policy
- Apply for a rego refund (if eligible)
Reputable car removal companies will guide you through these steps so you’re not left confused or stuck with leftover admin.
So, Why Use a Car Removal Service?
Because it’s quick, easy, eco-friendly, and often profitable. Instead of stressing over repairs, trying to sell privately, or paying for towing to the tip, you’re getting a complete service that takes care of everything—usually in one day.
Worth Remembering
That clunker in your yard? It might not look like much, but to the right hands, it’s a valuable source of parts, materials, and scrap metal. Car removal services give that vehicle a second life—whether through reused parts or recycled steel—while saving you the hassle.
So next time you’re wondering what to do with an unwanted car, don’t let it sit there gathering cobwebs. Call in the pros, get paid, and know that you’re doing the right thing for your pocket—and the planet.
If you are in Officer, and looking for a car removal service, this is the best way to visit us.
28 Station St, Cranbourne VIC 3977