How Automotive Recycling Works in Australia
Automotive recycling in Australia is a highly regulated and environmentally conscious process designed to recover valuable parts and materials from end-of-life vehicles (ELVs), while reducing landfill waste and pollution. Here's a closer look at the key steps involved:
1. Collection of End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs)
ELVs are vehicles that are no longer roadworthy or economically viable to repair. These vehicles are collected from private sellers, insurers, local councils, towing services and automotive yards.
2. De-pollution
Vehicles undergo de-pollution, where all hazardous substances are safely removed. This includes:
Draining engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid and coolant
Removing lead-acid batteries, air-conditioning gases, airbags, and mercury switches. This step is crucial to avoid contamination of soil and waterways.
3. Dismantling & Parts Recovery
After de-pollution, vehicles are dismantled and usable parts are recovered for resale or reuse.
Popular parts include:
Engines, gearboxes, alternators, starters
Panels, mirrors, headlights and tail lights
Seats, trims and electronic modules.
Parts are tested, cleaned and listed for resale.
4. Metal Recycling
The remaining vehicle body is crushed and shredded. Steel and other metals are extracted, sorted and sent to smelters to be melted down and reused in manufacturing.
5. Plastics & Rubber Recovery
Bumpers, interior plastics and rubber components such as tyres and hoses are separated and sent for processing. These materials are often turned into raw materials for construction, landscaping or new automotive components.
6. Fluid Recycling
Recovered fluids (like oil and coolant) are sent to specialised treatment facilities. After filtration and purification, many are reused in industrial or automotive applications.
7. Environmental Compliance
Australian automotive recyclers operate under strict environmental regulations. These include EPA licensing, pollution prevention measures and responsible waste tracking. Industry certifications help maintain high standards across the sector.
Why It Matters
Automotive recycling helps conserve natural resources, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and diverts materials from landfill. It also supports a circular economy by extending the life of automotive components and reducing the demand for new parts.
According to the Auto Parts Recyclers Association of Australia (APRAA), up to 95% of a vehicle can be reused or recycled.
Save Money by Buying Recycled Parts
At Sandgate Wreckers, we care deeply about conservation and sustainable practices. We’re proud winners of the Frank Nicastri Award for Australia’s Most Environmentally Friendly Auto Recycler.
When you buy from Sandgate, you’re not just saving money, you’re making a smart and eco-friendly choice. Plus all in-stock parts come with a 3-month warranty (with extended warranties available on engines, transmissions and differentials.)
Call us today on (07) 3269 0999 or shop online: ebay.com.au/str/sandgatewreckersqld
