People often wonder where to sell their rims for cash. If you’re searching for places to sell used rims nearby, there are several options. This could be because you want to change your rims, sell the ones you don’t use, or sell parts from a junked car. I will talk about local and online buyers of rims, share tips to maximize your sale value. I’ll also share my personal experience with the place who buys used rims near me.
Map of Where to Sell Used Rims Near Me
For “who buys used rims near me” or “sell used rims near me”, see below for locations.
You may not have many used rim buyers locally so use the zoom on the map. Having limited places to sell used rims near me, isn’t a bad thing, because you can get more money from a private buyer on a classified or auction site. Read on…
Where to Sell Used Rims Near Me – Sell Used Wheels Locally for Cash
You may be surprised but you have quite a few options to sell your unwanted rims locally. I will go through each one below and discuss how the basics of how the process works and what you can expect.
Everything below is companies who buy used rims near me. You can check the section below to see how to sell them online or find local used auto rim shop buyers near you.
Used Tire Shops
Your local used tire store not only buys used tires, but they likely buy rims also. In my experience with selling used rims, this has been a great way to get extra cashback for them. While it’s pretty easy to sell used custom or aftermarket rims back to them, the downside is you won’t get the price you want for them, even if they are high end rims.
Used tire shops that buy rims, need to get them from you as cheap as possible because they need room to sell them for a profit. They will only buy rims that are in quality condition that can be reused.
Automobile Salvage Yards
Your local junkyard that deals in used car parts is another option. Similar to a tire shop, they will buy your rims as long as they have resale value. Again though, they are resellers, so they are looking for a deal, so they can sell them and make a profit.
Most likely they will offer you the going rate for the scrap metal weight of the rim. They will only buy rims that are in quality condition that can be reused.
Tip: If you have used car rims or for a special car you can consider a specialized junkyard. For example, if you have stock Mercedes rims you could probably squeeze a few more dollars out of a Mercedes salvage yard or a European salvage yard. Since they have a specialized customer, you can negotiate a little higher in your ask.
Used Tire Wholesale Distributors
Some wholesale Used tire distributors also sell rims. Now the catch here, this isn’t for everyone. If you have a lot of used rims you are trying to sell, they will deal with you. Likely though they aren’t purchasing a couple of rims.
This is an option if you have a quantity of used rims you want to sell, like if you are a mechanic or tire shop and are looking for a buyer. If this applies then you will need to be ready to sell in bulk and cut a reasonable deal, because again these are resellers of used rims. They will only buy rims that are in quality condition that can be reused.
Retread Shops
Your local tire retreader may buy used rims. They buy used tires and retread them, and some of these tire retread shops will actually take used rims as well. It depends on what market they are in.
This isn’t always the case, so I would call them first and ask if they also buy used car rims too. The type of rims they would likely be interested in are not standard passenger vehicles, lite trucks, or SUV rims, but commercial vehicles like heavy duty trucks or semi truck rims. They will only buy rims that are in quality condition that can be reused.
Scrap Metal Yards
Your local scrap metal facility will buy used rims for cash. The best part about this option is it doesn’t matter what condition the rims are in. They will offer you the scrap metal value for the weight of your rims.
Likely your rims are steel or aluminum, you can look up the current values for the metal here and multiply it by your rims weight. Great option for low quality rims, but bad option for rims with value.
Recycling Centers
Your local recycling center will work similar to a scrap metal facility. It won’t matter what the quality of the rim is in. They will offer you the scrap metal price for it. Great option for low quality rims, but bad option for rims with value.
Sell Used Rims Online
There are three general options to sell your used rims online. An online used rim buyer, selling them on an auction site like eBay, or using classified sites.
Online Companies Who Buy Used Rims Near Me
There are multiple companies who buy rims on popular online marketplace. These companies vary in their process, but on the whole are looking to purchase quality used rims that they can resell. Since they are reselling them, your offers will be lower because they need room for a profit margin.
Here is how it works when you sell used wheels online:
- Take a picture of your rims
- You email a picture of your rims and the specs to the company
- If your wheel is in good condition and they have a use for it, you will get an offer
- If you agree, they provide you with a shipping label or you can drop off the rims
- They will pay you once they receive the wheels
Here are a few companies that will buy your used wheels:
- Wheels America: Will buy old repairable OEM Rims of various sizes.
- Black Burn OEM Wheel Solutions: Only take OEM alloy or steel wheels 2008 or newer. It has to be good quality. Will take after market rims also.
- Auto Rim Shop: Will take OEM’s with no structural damage,
- Stock Wheels: Buys only OEM stock factory original aluminum alloy and steel wheels and rims.
For any of the above options, the amount you can get is dependent on the brand and quality of your rim. While some places will take a repairable rim, others will not.
Understanding the Value of Used Rims
When it comes to selling used rims, knowing their worth is crucial. The value of used rims can vary greatly depending on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of what affects the value of used rims and how you can appraise them to get a fair price.
Factors affecting the value of used rims
- Material: Rims are made from different materials, with steel rims and aluminum or alloy rims being the most common. Steel rims are durable but heavy, while alloy rims are lighter and provide better performance. The material of your rims can significantly affect their value.
- Condition: The better the condition of your rims, the higher the price you can ask for. Rims in poor condition, with noticeable damage or wear, will fetch a lower price. It’s essential to assess the condition of your rims accurately to set a realistic price.
- Brand: Well-known brands like Blackburn OEM Wheel Solutions or American Factory Wheel often hold their value better than lesser-known or generic brands. If you have OEM rims (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or popular aftermarket rims, you might get a better price.
- Size and Style: The size and style of your rims can also affect their value. Unique or rare styles may attract car enthusiasts and fetch a higher price, while common styles may not be as valuable.
- Local Demand: Check with local used tire shops or auto rim shops to see what types of rims are in demand in your area. Local buyers may be willing to pay more for certain types of rims.
How to appraise the value of your used rims
- Research Online: Look up similar rims on online marketplaces like eBay Motors or Facebook Marketplace to get a rough estimate of what your rims might be worth.
- Visit Local Shops: Take your rims to local tire shops or auto parts stores to get an appraisal. They can provide a professional opinion on the value of your rims.
- Check Online Valuation Tools: Some online companies offer tools to help you appraise your rims. Enter the details of your rims, and they’ll provide an estimated value.
- Consult with Car Enthusiasts: Join online forums or local car enthusiast groups to get opinions on the value of your rims. They can provide valuable insights based on their experience.
- Get Multiple Opinions: Don’t settle for the first price you get. Collect appraisals from different sources to get a more accurate understanding of your rims’ value.
Understanding the value of your rims is the first step in the selling process. It helps ensure you get as much money as possible when you sell your used rims. Whether you decide to sell locally or on an online marketplace, having a clear idea of your rims’ value will make the selling process smoother and more profitable.
How I Get The Most Cash From Who Buys Used Rims Near Me
My suggestion to maximize your value and understand how much a good offer is do the following.
Grade your wheels yourself first. Are they new, like new, very good, bad, dinged, terrible, or junk. The first thing any of these companies do before they pay you is check and see if it is straight.
You can ask a local mechanic to throw it on a wheel balancer to check it for you. At a minimum roll the wheel on a level surface and look at the lips (look for any hops as it rolls). That’s not as good as a wheel balancer, but it’s better then not checking at all.
A last check you should do is to inspect the bead area where the tire and the wheel seal. It needs to be smooth. You can only inspect this if you have removed the tire already. If there is even a tiny amount of pitting or peeling on the bead / mounting surface your rim might be worthless to them.
You don’t want any surprises like sending in your rims thinking their sold only for them to tell you they are junk.
Sell Used Wheels on Auction Sites Like eBay Motors
This is likely no surprise to you. You can post your used rims on eBay motors and sell them. Here you can auction them off to the highest bidder.
This is one of your best options to get the most money from your used wheels. This is because you are selling to a first hand buyer, meaning they are looking to purchase them to use, not resell.
That means you are dealing directly with the consumer so more money goes in your pocket. For tips on how to get the most for your used wheels, keep reading below.
Also remember rims are heavy, you are going to have to ship them. You can differ the shipping costs to the customer or work it into the price.
Sell Used Wheels Through Online Classified Sites
Two local market places are great for selling used wheels and rims: Craigslist and Sell My Tires.
Craigslist has a section called FOR SALE>AUTO where you can post your rims. You can post pictures, descriptions, and the specs of your wheels. Potential buyers in your local market will email you and ask questions or make an offer. You can negotiate a sale online for a price and a pickup location.
Here you are dealing directly with a buyer, which means more potential cash for you. The downside is people are going to ask a lot of questions. They likely don’t know how to inspect a rim for quality so it usually leads to a lot more back and forth before the sale.
You can also sell rims locally through the classified site Sell My Tires. This is a site that sells tires, but if your tires are still on the rims, you have a market to sell both the tire and the rim together. This site will attract people in your local who are looking for tires and/or tires and rims.
You will be surprised at how much more effective a site like this is for sell used rims. It’s a market of active buyers, with less competition of sellers, which is good for your bottom line.
Sites like this will post an ad for your tires and rims and you can post pictures and the specs. Local buyers will find your add and can negotiate with you and arrange a local pickup or pick up.
How Much Cash Can I Sell Used Rims Near Me For?
This is the big question for everyone and there are too many variables to answer.
How much can you get for used rims will depend on the following variables:
- The type of buyer (Private buyer pays most)
- Brand and size of rims (Matters to private owner of used rim buyer)
- Quality of Rims (Matters to private owner of used rim buyer)
- If damaged or dinged, are they repairable (Matters to used rim buyers)
- What kind of metal (if selling to a scrap yard or recycling center)
- How much do they weigh (if selling to a scrap yard or recycling center)
All of the factors above will affect your asking price and ability to negotiate a good deal. Just because someone buys used rims doesn’t mean it’s your best option.
For example, If I had a set of pristine Volk 22’s that only had minimal wear and tear…i wouldn’t sell them for scrap or recycling!! I would be peddling them on a classified site where I can find a private buyer so I can maximize my cash take.
If and only if I couldn’t find a private buyer, I would sell them to a used wheel buyer online or would sell items locally at a local used tire shop as my second option.
On the opposite end, If I had a beat up pair of wheels that I got of a salvaged vehicle and they grade out as junk, I wouldn’t waste my time finding a private buyer.
I would sell them for scrap and take the scrap metal price for the weight. Alternatively, you could consider how much it costs to get your rims fixed and if doing so would increase the value.
How Do I Get The Most Cash For My Used Wheels?
Here is the general order of buyer type in which you can get the most money for used wheels (Ranked most to least):
- Private Buyer (through classified site)
- Private Buyer on eBay Motors
- Used Tire Shops
- Companies Who Buy Used Wheels Online
- Wholesale Used Tire Shops
- Auto Salvages
- Scrap Metal Plants
- Recycling Centers
As the quality of your rims diminishes you can start moving down the list. The quality of your rim will determine who you can market to.
When You Sell Used Rims, Think Like a Marketer and Get Paid
If you are posting your used wheels to a classified site or auction site you need to think like a marketer. That means take really good pictures from good angles, post multiple pictures, and writing great descriptions.
When you write a description mention size, specs, metal type, brand, age, original price, quality, and mention any issues. Be honest about the condition…honesty goes a long way and people who buy used rims near me always seem skeptical of what i’m selling. You need to show value!
Show and Tell…
Play up the things that add value. Speak to the benefits. If the chrome is shines, say it and show it. Have 4 matching rims? mention that as a benefit. Have pics of the rims on a car that looks dope? post them. If you cleaned them, polished them, and babied them, mention it and show it. Have a set of used tires to sell with the rims, mention that as a benefit and a deal!
All of these things will help a consumer get an idea of what they are getting. If I saw some rims thrown on a garage floor vs seeing them on your BMW M4 with the wheels cut in the sun…makes a big difference in selling me as a consumer! If you don’t have pics on a cool ride, then take an interesting picture of the wheels.
Who Buys Used Rims Near Me If They are Damaged?
If your rims are damaged meaning not straight, severely dinged, structural issues, or unrepairable…your options are limited. At this point you can sell them for their weight in scrap metal. Your best and likely only options to purchase rims are scrap metal plants or recycling facilities.
Preparing Your Used Rims for Sale
Before you can sell rims locally, a bit of preparation is necessary to attract local buyers and get the best resale value. Here are some steps to ensure your rims are ready for sale:
Cleaning and Refurbishing
Firstly, give your rims a good cleaning to remove any dirt, grime, or brake dust. This will not only make them look better but also allow potential buyers to see the true condition of the rims.
If your rims are in poor condition, consider getting them refurbished at local tire retread shops. Refurbishing can include fixing bends, cracks, or curb rash, and even getting them repainted.
This process can significantly improve the appearance of your car rims, whether they are OEM wheels or custom or aftermarket rims.
Taking Quality Photos
Once your rims are clean and refurbished, it’s time to take some quality pictures. Good photos are crucial for selling items on online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace.
Ensure you take clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles to show the overall condition and design of the rims. It’s advisable to take close-up shots of any brand markings or part numbers, as well as any damage or wear.
These photos will serve as a visual description for local buyers and can be used whether you choose to sell rims locally or on rims online platforms.
Documenting any Damage or Wear
Be honest and upfront about any damage or wear your rims have. Documenting this accurately will save time and avoid any misunderstandings with potential buyers. Describe any scratches, dents, or bends in the listing. If you have replica wheels, mention this in the description as it could affect the resale value.
Additionally, if you have the original receipts or any warranty information, include that in your listing. It’s also a good idea to mention if the rims were refurbished and by which shop, especially if done by reputable local tire retread shops or automobile salvage yards.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to selling your used rims for cash. Whether you decide to sell through local classifieds, online retailer platforms, or automobile salvage yards, presenting your rims in the best possible light will attract potential buyers and help you earn that extra cash.
Plus, you won’t have to see your rims gather dust in the garage anymore. So, grab your cleaning supplies, your camera, and start preparing your rims for sale!
Tips for a Successful Sale
Pricing Your Rims Competitively
To sell your used rims quickly, it’s essential to price them right. Look around on online marketplaces and local classifieds to see what similar rims are going for.
Consider the brand, size, condition, and whether they are OEM wheels, custom or aftermarket rims, or replica wheels when setting your price. If your rims are in poor condition, the price should reflect that. Remember, potential buyers are likely to compare prices across different platforms before making a decision.
Creating an Attractive Listing
An attractive listing can significantly increase your chances of selling your rims. Include all the necessary details like the brand, size, condition, and price in the title and description. Use the quality pictures you took earlier to showcase your rims.
Mention any refurbishing done by local tire retread shops or automobile salvage yards. If you are listing on online marketplaces, use keywords like “rims sell,” “car rims,” or “used rims for cash” to help local buyers find your listing easily.
Safe Transactions: Meeting Buyers and Receiving Payment
When it’s time to meet a buyer, choose a safe, public place like a corporate tire shop or a scrap metal yard. It’s advisable to have a friend with you for safety.
Accept cash or digital payments to avoid bounced checks. If you are shipping the rims, consider using a prepaid UPS label and dropping off at a UPS location to keep shipping costs low. Always provide a receipt, whether digital or paper, as proof of transaction.
Legal and Safety Considerations
When you decide to sell rims locally, it’s essential to be aware of the legal and safety aspects to ensure a smooth and lawful transaction. Here are some key points to consider:
Legal requirements for selling used rims:
- Resale Value: Understanding the resale value of your car rims is crucial. It’s legal to sell used rims, but they must be in a condition that’s safe for use. If the rims are in poor condition, it’s your responsibility to inform the local buyers.
- Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Wheels: If you are selling OEM wheels, ensure that they are not counterfeit or replica wheels. Selling counterfeit items can land you in legal trouble.
- Auto Parts Regulations: Different regions have specific regulations concerning the sale of auto parts. Make sure you comply with the local laws regarding selling used car parts.
Ensuring the safety of the transaction:
- Meeting Places: When meeting with local buyers, choose public places like local tire retread shops or automobile salvage yards. Avoid secluded areas to ensure your safety.
- Online Transactions: If you choose to sell rims online, platforms like Facebook Marketplace can be safer as they offer a level of buyer and seller verification. Other online marketplaces also provide secure transaction methods.
- Payment: Accept payment through secure channels. Avoid accepting checks as they can bounce. Cash or secure online payment platforms are advisable.
- Documentation: Keep a well-documented record of the transaction. It should include the description of the rims, the agreed price, and the details of the buyer.
- Shipping: If you are shipping the rims, use a reliable courier service. Some services offer a prepaid UPS label for easy shipping. Ensure to calculate shipping costs accurately to avoid losses.
- Quality Picture: Provide a quality picture of the rims to the potential buyers. It will not only attract more buyers but will also serve as proof of the condition of the rims at the time of sale.
By adhering to the legal requirements and ensuring the safety of the transaction, you can sell your used rims without any hassle. Whether you decide to sell through tire shops local to you, online retailer platforms, or local classifieds, being cautious and following the legal protocols is paramount to a successful and safe sale.
FAQs
How much are rims worth?
The value of rims varies based on factors like brand, size, condition, and whether they are OEM wheels or custom or aftermarket rims. Checking prices on online marketplaces and local classifieds can give you a ballpark figure.
Is it okay to buy used rims?
Yes, buying used rims can save money, but it’s crucial to check for any damage, ensure they fit your vehicle, and if possible, get them checked by local tire retread shops.
Where can I sell my rims for cash near me?
You can sell rims locally through local classifieds, Facebook Marketplace, automobile salvage yards, or local tire shops. Online marketplaces like eBay or Wheels America are also good options.
How to ship rims to a buyer?
Use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and ensure each rim is packaged securely. Consider using a prepaid UPS label for shipping and provide the buyer with a tracking number.
What are the best online platforms for selling used rims?
Online retailer platforms like eBay, Wheels America, and Santa Ana Wheel are popular for selling used rims. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are also good options for local sellers looking to avoid shipping costs.
Sell Used Rims Near Me – Conclusion
There are a lot of options to sell used rims near me and likely the same for you if you explore the options. You can find private buyers, auction sites, or companies who buy used rims. How much you can get for them will vary depending on the brand, metal, quality, and possibly your ability as a marketer depending on the buyer.
For the most profitable experience, you want to deal directly with a consumer so your best options are auctions sites and classified sites. No matter what though, people are generally not picking up low quality used wheels.
For lower quality wheels or junk wheels, you’ll have to look at most of your local wheel buyers like salvages, scrap facilities, and recyclers. This is what I have experienced at the places who buy used rims near me.