How to Buy Wrecked Cars & Trucks

Purchasing wrecked cars and trucks and selling them for parts is a common way for auto-savvy people to make money. Sellers usually want to quickly get rid of cars and trucks they deem useless, so they are willing to unload unwanted vehicles for a small price. Once you purchase a wrecked car, you can dismantle it and sell individual parts for a profit.

• Decide what kind of vehicles you want to purchase. Since you probably plan to strip them down and sell the parts, you will need to stick to vehicles you know how to dismantle. Certain makes require special tools, so consider the cost of tools.


• Place ads on local classifieds sites in the "Vehicles Wanted" section. State the price you will give for wrecked vehicles and whether or not you offer pick up services. Include a contact number. Also consider creating a basic website. This will give your business more creditability and authority.


• Respond to ad postings that list wrecked vehicles. Make sellers an offer on their vehicles. Consider whether or not it is profitable for you to go out of your price range to purchase individual wrecked vehicles. If you know for certain that you can sell the car's parts for a profit, and you can afford to go out of your normal price range, make the investment.


• Establish a relationship with a towing company if you do not own your own tow truck. You may be able to work out a discount for bulk towing services. Having someone else tow vehicles also gives you time to focus on dismantling cars and selling parts.