Where to Get the Most Money for Your Old Car Batteries

Did you know that your old, dead car batteries might actually be worth money? While many people throw used car batteries away as hazardous waste, the truth is that they contain many useful materials that recycling centers and scrap dealers will gladly pay money for.

In this guide, we'll explore how to make money from old car batteries, who buys old car batteries, how much money you can expect to receive, and why recycling is a win-win for you and the planet.

The Value of Old Car Batteries

Once car batteries won't hold a charge, they most likely feel useless—but car batteries still contain:

Lead plates—a recyclable heavy metal and valuable material

Sulfuric acid—can be processed and reused, or neutralized

Plastic casing—recyclable and usable for a variety of new products

Many of these recyclable materials are in high demand, especially lead, which is recycled into new batteries, as well as any other product it built for. This makes old car batteries a reliable source of scrap value.

5 Ways to Earn Money on Old Car Batteries

These are the 5 most common and effective:

Scrap Metal Yards

Most metal recyclers will buy car batteries in cash.

Prices will depend on the weight and lead content of the battery.

Auto parts stores

Many auto parts retailers, such as Supercheap Auto and Repco will give core charge refunds or store credits when returning used batteries. 

Some retailers will also accept used batteries even if you did not buy the battery in store.

Battery recycling centres

While many specialist recyclers will pay for batteries or charge per unit, kilo, etc.., some recyclers will accept bulk drop-offs if you have multiple batteries. 

Online marketplaces 

Put your old batteries for sale on Facebook marketplace or Gumtree.

A mechanic or DIY car builder may buy a working or partially working car battery. 

Auto wreckers or mechanics

Your local wrecker or scrap car yard may pay cash for scrap parts from cars including batteries.

Some smaller repair shops will refurbish car batteries or recycle them.

Selling Old Car Batteries Near You

Here’s how to find buyers:

Search the internet. Use queries like “old car batteries for money ” or “car battery recycling Bayswater.

Check your local council’s website and search for anything about waste management or recycling events.

Ask your local mechanics. Mechanics often know of people who want to buy batteries or accept batteries.

How Much Will You Make?

Pay-outs vary depending on the battery type, its condition, and the market demand. Average payout is:

Battery Type	Estimated Price (AUD)
Standard Car Battery	$5 – $15
Truck Battery	$10 – $25
Marine/Deep Cycle	$15 – $30+

Pay-outs will be impacted by different factors: 

Weight (more lead = more value)

Current scrap lead prices

Whether the battery maintains charge

Tips To Maximise The Value Of Your Battery

Make sure you get the most from your old battery using these handy tips:

- Clean off dirt & corrosion before selling

- Store the battery upright in a cool dry place (this way it is less prone to leaking)

- If you have multiple batteries, try putting them together and selling them as bulk

- Compare prices before you sell your batteries and see what you can get in your area

Safety and Legal Considerations

Selling and transporting an old car battery can be hazardous:

- Wear gloves when handling an old battery to protect against acid burns

- If a battery is leaking or damaged be sure to transport it in a plastic or leak-proof container

- Never throw batteries in the general waste. It is illegal and harmful to the environment

- Check your local regulations regarding hazardous waste transportation or commercial sales of batteries

Why Recycling Car Batteries is Important 

Recycling is not only about making money but also about protecting the environment.

Helps prevent lead and acid contamination from soil and waterways

Lessens the need for future metal mining

Encourages a circular economy by turning waste into usable materials

Helps conserve the materials we use as well as energy consumed in manufacture

Concluding Thoughts

If you've got old car batteries at home, please don't let them gather dust or go to the landfill, you can make money, and more importantly, help protect the planet. Recycle your old car batteries responsibly to turn trash into cash. Start by finding a buyer today and check how much your scrap is actually worth.