Selling a used motor is a great way to get cash. There are a few different buyers which we can discuss below. Whether you have a car, boat, tractor, or lawnmower engine, there are buyers out there on the secondary market who will pay money. In this blog post, I will discuss who the engine buyers are and guide you on where to sell one. I will also share my experience with the place that buys used engines near me.
Map of Who Buys Used Engines Near Me
For “Who Buys Used Engines Near Me” or “Where to Sell Used Engines Near Me”, see the map below…
Often the quickest engine sale can come from your local junkyard depending on what you have and the condition it is in. There are also specialized engine salvage yards, that solely deal in motors that are regular buyers. There are buyers beyond the junkyard, which we will get into…
When you sell a used motor and you want to get the most money from it, you need to understand that who you selling to matters. For example, let’s say you have an old inline 4-cylinder Honda V-TEC B-Series from a Civic, do you think a Chevy salvage yard is going to give you any money for it? A salvage yard is going to need to be able to resell to their customers whatever they buy from you. Finding the best buyer for your engine is the key to maximum profit.
Diverse Demands: Exploring the Varied Types of Used Engine Buyers
There is a diverse array of consumers in the market for quality used engines, ranging from car enthusiasts seeking an economical means to revamp their vehicles to individuals with a budget-conscious approach to engine replacement. Some opt for car engines online, where they can explore a wide selection of engines for sale at an affordable price.
These discerning buyers often compare the value proposition of rebuilt engines versus new engines, acknowledging the cost-effectiveness of used, rebuilt units. Salvage yards also attract a unique segment of the market, attracting those who prefer to source their engines from salvaged vehicles. The demand for various types of used engines reflects the multitude of preferences and requirements within the automotive world, making it a thriving industry catering to a diverse customer base.
Who Buys Used Engines Near Me
Engines are great on the secondary market. Considering that a new crate motor for a car will run $2k and a junkyard will sell a used motor for $300, there is a big opportunity for buyers to save. The key to selling is knowing your buyer and pricing correctly.
Local Auto Salvage
If you are selling a car or truck engine, your local salvage yard is a good option. While these places typically purchase junked vehicles and resell them for parts, some will purchase engines if they think they can resell them.
You need to understand though that a salvage yard is a “middleman” in the buying process. That means they will make you a low offer for your motor because they need to mark it up to make a profit. They may offer you $75 for an engine they can sell for $250. Most general auto junkyards will only consider engines from popular car and truck models. The engine needs to be in good enough condition to be resold.
Find Salvages That Specialize in a Make and Model for Higher Profit
Now if you have a specific engine that appeals to a specific audience, seeking out a specialized salvage yard will net you a higher offer. For example, if you take a Honda V Tec to a Civic Salvage yard or a JDM salvage you will get a better offer. The same would go for taking an L75, L76, and L84 V8 engines to a Chevy salvage, a specialized Corvette salvage, or even a classic car salvage.
Some junkyards specialize in one make or model of vehicle. Those yards will pay more if you have the right parts because they cater to a niche audience. With that being said it’s not just cars and trucks either. The same goes for tractors, lawnmowers, motorcycles, construction equipment, etc…there are yards dedicated solely to those. Those yards look for specific parts and know exactly what their customers will buy.
Engine Salvages
There are yards that deal solely in used engines. They purchase engines second-hand and have a warehouse of engines. They sell them from the warehouse and online. These are really great resources for people who do restoration projects. While many of these places are going to consider a running motor over a seized one, if you have something rare or valuable, they may be interested in rebuilding it.
Scrap Metal Facility
This is an option particularly if your engine is truly junk. A scrap metal facility will pay you for a junk engine based on its weight and metal. This is one of the easiest options to sell an engine quickly, however, don’t expect much money from a scrap metal sale.
Online MarketPlaces and Classified Ad Sites
If you have a working motor, this should be your first consideration. Selling a used engine privately on your own. That means no middleman reseller and you keep all the money since you get paid by the consumer. As a general rule, try and sell your engine yourself first, then consider other options.
There are all the ways to sell an engine online, but the most popular are still these three sites:
- Ebay Motors – Great to reach a large audience, but have to deal with shipping it to the buyer
- Craigslist Auto Parts – Great to find locals and avoid shipping, but lots of haggling and potential for scammers.
- Facebook Market Place – Reach a huge audience and local buyers
Who Buys Used Engines Near Me – Other Options
There are two other options, but these buyers can be a bit more tricky. You need to have the right parts that are tailored to the audience. These places will often pay less than others because unless you have exactly what they are looking for at the exact time, they don’t need your engine.
Local Mechanic
Your local auto mechanic may be interested in a used engine. This is even more true if you have an engine for a popular model of vehicle like a Corolla or an Accord. These vehicles have engines that are interchangeable on various models of vehicles, which makes them have great value. This is true of a lot of brands like Toyota Nissan, Ford, Chevy, etc…
Custom Shop or Tuning Shop
Shops that do custom car tuning, may also buy used engines. Some of these shops specialize in engine swaps. Again the more specialized the shop the more likely you are to interest them in your motor. For example, taking a 90’s Skyline Inline 6 to a JDM tuning shop, you may get some interest.
Where to Get The Most Money For a Used Engine
Ebay, Craigslist, and Facebook Market Place are the best options for the highest-paying buyers. Using the internet you can reach a broader audience which can help you get the price you want.
While there is more competition, the key to getting the most money and selling your engine efficiently is:
- Be clear about the make, model, HP, etc…
- Take really good pictures (consider cleaning the engine up first)
- Setting a reasonable price
- Writing a really good description and include all the specs
- Measure it and include the dimensions
- If anything is wrong with it, be honest about it, you will earn the buyer’s trust
- Include any stipulation, like you must pick it up
Direct Buyers Want Motors That Work…
If you are selling an engine privately and directly to consumers, then it is going to need to be running. I’m not saying it is impossible, but 90% of buyers are not looking to rebuild an engine, because they need an engine now to solve a problem. So my point here is to be honest with yourself and the condition of the engine.
There are places that rebuild engines and they would be a good option for a non-functioning motor. However, to my point above they are not a direct consumer.
Be ready for your buyer to ask questions like: Does it run? When was the last time it ran? Has it ever been rebuilt? Do you have service records? How many miles are on it? etc…
It doesn’t need to be in perfect condition for you to sell it. Most people buying second-hand expect wear and tear. What they don’t expect is a seized engine.
A Note About Liability When Selling Used Motors
This is my two cents when selling to someone who buys used engines near me: write a bill of sale and ask to waive any liability. That means that if they use this engine and it fails and someone gets hurt you are not liable.
In a liability case on a defective car part, everyone in the chain can get sued. From the manufacturer down to someone like you if perhaps you customized something on it that caused the issue.
Who Buys Used Engines Near Me – Wrap-Up
When it comes to finding a used engine buyer, you have quite a few options. It doesn’t matter if you have a small lawn mower engine or a Mack truck engine, there is a buyer for your part. Selling privately is ideal, specialized junkyards are second, and selling for scrap metal should be your last option, This is what I have learned from the place that buys used engines near me.
FAQs: Who Buys Used Car Engines?
Who buys used car engines?
Many individuals, auto enthusiasts, mechanics, and salvage yards buy used car engines. They are often looking for affordable replacement options or engines for various projects.
How can I sell my used car engine?
You have several options. You can list it on online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, or specialized automotive forums. Alternatively, you can contact local auto shops, salvage yards, or engine rebuilders who may be interested in purchasing it.
Can I sell a damaged or non-functional car engine?
Yes, you can still sell a damaged or non-functional car engine. Some buyers may be interested in it for parts or to rebuild. However, the price you can fetch may be lower compared to a working engine.
What information should I provide when selling a used car engine?
You should provide details about the engine’s make, model, year, mileage, condition, any known issues, and whether it comes with any accessories or components. Clear and honest information helps potential buyers make informed decisions.
Are there any legal considerations when selling a used car engine?
Ensure that you have clear ownership of the engine and that it’s not stolen. Keep records of the sale, including a bill of sale, to protect yourself legally. If the engine has a warranty, be transparent about its status.
What affects the value of a used car engine?
The engine’s make, model, year, mileage, condition, and whether it’s in demand can significantly influence its value. Well-maintained, low-mileage engines from popular cars often command higher prices.
