What's a Auto Radiator (Aluminium/Plastic) Worth in Scrap?
A typical auto radiator (aluminium/plastic) (5 kg) is worth about $7–$10 in scrap at Sydney benchmark rates on (mid estimate $8.72). Aluminium makes up about 100% of that value. These are estimates, not yard quotes. Where these numbers come from.
Based on current Australian scrap yard rates and a typical auto radiator (aluminium/plastic)'s metal composition. Actual yard offers vary by city, load size, and material condition.
Component breakdown
A typical auto radiator (aluminium/plastic) weighs 5kg total. Here's where the value comes from — sorted by component, with the metal type, grade, and estimated payout.
| Component | Metal & grade | Weight (kg) | Est. mid value (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core and end tanks (newer models) | Aluminium · Aluminium Sheet | 4.0 | $8.72 |
Where these numbers come from
| Figure | Value | Source | Type | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium spot price | A$4.36/kg | MetalpriceAPI (LME-linked market data) | Market data feed | |
| Typical auto radiator (aluminium/plastic) weight and metal content | 5 kg | Our estimate of a typical unit (shown in the breakdown above) | Our estimate | |
| Grade payout rates | 12–78% of spot | Our estimate from published yard rate cards | Our estimate |
Spot prices are converted to Australian dollars per kilogram. Yard payouts are our estimates (spot × grade payout rate × regional factor), not quotes from any yard. Full detail: methodology.
How yards handle a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic)
The first thing a yard does with a radiator is establish what it is made of. Modern units are aluminium core with plastic end tanks and go on the aluminium scale, often as irony or dirty aluminium if the plastic is still attached. Older copper-brass radiators are a different category entirely and pay much better, so check before you assume. The plastic tanks are worth breaking off if you have several; on one unit they are not. Coolant is the downgrade. A radiator that arrives still wet with glycol is a contamination issue and many yards refuse it, so drain it into a container first. On its own a single aluminium radiator is a small transaction and better bundled with other auto parts.
Before you take it in
A few minutes of preparation can lift the value toward the high end of the estimated range.
- → Drain coolant before transport — coolant is regulated waste
- → Older copper-brass radiators pay significantly more — check before scrapping
Safety & legal notes
Coolant (glycol-based) is toxic to wildlife and pets and is classified as regulated waste in most states. Drain into a sealed container for proper disposal.
Where to sell a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic)
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic). Use our city directory to find yards in your area and see region-specific rates — payouts in regional and remote areas are typically lower than capital cities due to transport costs.
For larger items, call ahead to confirm pickup arrangements or weighbridge access. Most yards have minimum drop-off weights.
Other vehicle parts
Frequently asked questions
How much is a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic) worth in scrap? +
A auto radiator (aluminium/plastic) is worth approximately $7.41 to $10.03 AUD in scrap value, with a mid estimate of $8.72. The exact amount depends on the city you sell in (yards in remote cities pay less due to transport costs), the condition of the components, and how well the item is prepared before drop-off.
What metals are in a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic)? +
A typical auto radiator (aluminium/plastic) contains 4kg of aluminium, totalling about 5kg. The aluminium component contributes the most value (around $8.72), even though it's not always the heaviest.
How do I prepare a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic) for scrapping? +
Several steps lift the return: (1) Drain coolant before transport — coolant is regulated waste (2) Older copper-brass radiators pay significantly more — check before scrapping
Where can I sell a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic) for scrap? +
Any scrap yard accepting the relevant metals will buy a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic). See our <a href="/cities/">city directory</a> for region-specific yards and rates. Larger items may need pickup arrangement or weighbridge access — call ahead to confirm hours and acceptance.
Is it worth scrapping a single auto radiator (aluminium/plastic)? +
At $8.72 mid estimate, a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic) is worth scrapping if you're already taking other items to the yard. As a standalone trip, only if the yard is nearby.
Are there any safety or legal considerations with scrapping a auto radiator (aluminium/plastic)? +
Coolant (glycol-based) is toxic to wildlife and pets and is classified as regulated waste in most states. Drain into a sealed container for proper disposal.