Navigating the world of scrap cars involves understanding a unique set of terms and phrases that are specific to the industry. From salvaged components to recycling processes, having a grasp of these terms can help you make informed decisions when it comes to scrapping your vehicle. In this blog, we present the ultimate scrap car glossary, introducing you to the key terms you should know before embarking on your car scrapping journey.

Scrap Value:

The monetary worth of a vehicle when it's no longer roadworthy and ready to be scrapped. It's determined by factors such as the salvageable components and materials within the vehicle.

Salvage Yard:

Also known as a scrap yard or junkyard, it's a facility where end-of-life vehicles are collected, dismantled, and salvaged for reusable parts and materials.

Salvageable Components:

Parts and components within a vehicle that can be removed and reused or resold, such as the engine, transmission, and electronics.

Depollution:

The process of removing hazardous materials and fluids, such as oil, fuel, and coolant, from a vehicle before it's scrapped. It ensures environmentally responsible disposal.

Certificate of Destruction (CoD):

A legal document provided to the vehicle owner when a car is scrapped. It confirms that the vehicle has been properly disposed of and is no longer roadworthy.

End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV):

A vehicle that has reached the end of its useful life and is no longer roadworthy. ELVs are typically dismantled and recycled.

Catalytic Converter:

A component in a vehicle's exhaust system that reduces harmful emissions by converting pollutants into less harmful substances. It contains valuable metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

Environmental Compliance:

Adhering to environmental regulations and laws when it comes to scrapping vehicles. It includes responsible disposal of hazardous materials and recycling practices.

Scrapping Process:

The sequence of steps involved in dismantling and recycling a vehicle, including depollution, salvaging components, recycling materials, and proper disposal.

Salvage Title:

A title issued for a vehicle that has been damaged or deemed a total loss by an insurance company. Salvage-titled vehicles are often sold to salvage yards for scrapping or rebuilding.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN):

A unique alphanumeric code assigned to each vehicle. It contains information about the vehicle's make, model, year, and manufacturing details.

Circular Economy:

An economic model that aims to minimise waste and promote sustainability by keeping materials and products in use for as long as possible through recycling and reusing.