Top Mileage Related Myths About Car Scrapping Debunked
Choosing when to scrap your vehicle shouldn’t be a guessing game. Misconceptions about mileage often lead owners to pay for repairs that far exceed the car’s true value—or miss out on top cash payouts. At Taha Auto Group, we leverage real market data and decades of industry expertise to ensure you get fair, transparent, and hassle-free service, no matter how many kilometres are on your odometer.
Why Mileage Myths Are Costing You Money?
Believing mileage myths can push you into costly repairs or low scrap offers. Outdated rules hide the true value of your parts and dent your payout. At Taha Auto Group, our data-driven quotes ensure you get the highest cash offer—no guesswork, no surprises.
Ready to find out your car’s true value? Call 0800 110 396 for a free instant quote!
Common Mileage Myths vs. Reality
As pros, let us explain the truth behind these mileage misconceptions.
Myth 1: You Must Drive 300 000 km for a Good Deal
Many Kiwis think only ultra high mileage cars are worth scrapping but that’s not the case in New Zealand:
Repair vs. Scrap Break-Even
- By 150 000 km, average annual repair bills in NZ often jump 25–30%.
- Scrapping at this point can save you $1 000– $2 000 in future maintenance.
Local Demand
- Popular NZ models like the Toyota Corolla, Subaru Outback, and Ford Ranger still fetch strong parts prices at 160–200 000 km.
Our Tip
- Get a free quote once repair estimates hit 50% of your car’s trade-in value you may be better off scrapping.
Myth 2: Higher Mileage Always Means Lower Payout
Odometer readings matter, but they don’t tell the full story in NZ:
Parts Value vs. Kilometres
- A well-maintained 220 000 km Corolla can out earn a neglected 120 000 km hatchback with low parts demand.
Condition & Service History
- Regular WOF checks, rust-free panels, and service records can offset high mileage in our valuations.
Pro Advice
- Share full service logs and recent receipts to maximise your offer from Taha Auto Group.
Myth 3: Old Cars Aren’t Recyclable
Every component of your old vehicle is a resource right here in NZ:
| Material | Recyclability | Energy Saved vs. New Production |
|---|---|---|
| Steel | 100% | 75% |
| Aluminium | 100% | 95% |
| Copper | 100% | 90% |
Fluids & Plastics
- Engine oil, coolant & transmission fluid are filtered and reclaimed by local recyclers.
- Plastics are sorted and re-formed into new automotive parts.
Environmental Impact
- Scrapping one car prevents roughly 9 tonnes of COâ‚‚ compared to letting it rust away or keep driving.
Myth 4: Only the Engine Counts for Scrap Value
Your old car is more than just its motor:
High-Value Components
- Transmissions, catalytic converters and ECUs (engine control units) often fetch hundreds of dollars.
Accessory & Trim Value
- Alloy wheels, leather seats, infotainment systems & roof racks add extra cash.
Our Process
- Visual check inside and out.
- Diagnostic scan for electronics.
- Market price cross-check on local NZ parts exchanges.
Myth 5: You’ll Pay Towing Fees for Non-Running Cars
At Taha Auto Group, there are no surprises—ever:
Free Nationwide Towing
- From Auckland to Invercargill, we cover all costs, even on Section H (non-running) vehicles.
Flexible Pickup
- Choose a weekday or weekend slot that suits you.
Contactless Handover
- We handle lifting, loading & less paperwork you just walk away with cash.
Myth 6: Scrapping Is Complex & Time-Consuming
We’ve simplified the process for every Kiwi:
Instant Online Quote
- Enter Make, Model, Year & Mileage in under 60 seconds.
Free Towing Schedule
- Pick a convenient date/time—our driver arrives fully equipped.
On-Spot Inspection
- No surprises: we confirm the offer within minutes.
Immediate Payment
- Cash or NZ-bank transfer before we leave your property.
All Paperwork Done
- We handle WOF cancellation, plate refunds & disposal certificates.
Myth 7: Private Sale Always Yields More
Selling yourself can cost time and money—here’s how we compare:
| Private Sale | Scrap with Taha Auto Group |
|---|---|
| Advertising fees (Trade Me, Facebook) | $0 |
| Time answering enquiries & viewings | 0 hours |
| Risk of no-shows or lowball offers | None |
| Sale completion time (weeks–months) | As little as 24 hours |
| Guaranteed payment on collection | Yes |
- Real Cost: Advertising, follow-ups & security risks often eat into your profits.
- Fast Cash: We guarantee same-day payment, no haggling, no hassle.
Ready to Scrap? Get Your Instant Quote Today!
Don’t let mileage myths cost you time, money, or peace of mind. Trust the experts at Taha Auto Group for a fast, fair, and eco-friendly car removal experience.