What Does a Car Weigh and How Much Can Be Recycled?

The average car weighs about 4,000 pounds according to EPA statistics from 2018. Many smaller cars are lighter than this with the Chevy Spark weighing just over 2,200 pounds. Others are heavier with the Lincoln Navigator weighing as much as 6,000 pounds if optional auto parts such as four-wheel drive are included. Eventually, all of these vehicles will become junk cars, and you may be surprised to see how many junk parts can be recycled.

For example, the windshield can now be recycled thanks to advances in technology. 15 million of these are replaced each year, and it’s now possible to turn windshield glass into bottles or fiberglass insulation while the plastic can be turned into carpet glue.

The engine itself can, in many cases, be recycled. Auto repair mechanics can recycle engines and make them more efficient and better than before thanks to more advanced materials. Most plastics from junk cars can be recycled and used in newer vehicles. Other auto parts that can be recycled include batteries, tires, belts and even the carpets.

Scrap metal can be sold, and even old catalytic converters can be recycled by auto repair professionals for their platinum. With all that can be reused, there are really no such things as junk parts, only parts that can be given a new life if you give them the chance.