Top 10 Scrap Yards in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic powerhouse with over 5 million residents, is a hub for sustainable recycling through its thriving scrap yard industry. These yards play a vital role in managing the city’s waste, salvaging auto parts, and recycling metals like copper and steel, supporting a circular economy. From Selby to Edenvale, Jozi’s scrap yards offer affordable car spares, vehicle scrapping services, and competitive prices for ferrous and non-ferrous metals, catering to mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and businesses. This evergreen guide, crafted with local expertise and credible sources, ranks the top 10 scrap yards in Johannesburg for 2025, detailing their services, pricing, and unique features. Whether you’re a car owner seeking a budget-friendly engine or a contractor selling scrap metal, these facilities ensure quality, compliance, and environmental responsibility in the City of Gold’s

Top 10 Scrap Yards in Johannesburg

1. Lou Appel’s Auto Spares

  • Location: 50 Booysens Rd, Selby South, Johannesburg

  • Description: Established over 50 years ago, Lou Appel’s is a leading scrap yard, offering an extensive inventory of used auto parts for all vehicle makes and models. Known for its “Home of a Million Spares,” it dismantles vehicles weekly, providing engines, gearboxes, and body parts. Highly rated for customer service and quality. Open Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: Auto parts (R200–R10,000), vehicle scrapping (12–20% of market value), delivery available. Metal recycling (R2–R50/kg depending on type).

  • Why Choose: Long-standing reputation, vast stock, and reliable delivery nationwide.

  • Contact: www.louappels.co.za, +27 11 493 2990

2. Sparesboyz Scrapyard

  • Location: 123 Main Reef Rd, Benrose, Johannesburg

  • Description: Operating for nearly 30 years, Sparesboyz is RMI-approved, specializing in OEM and aftermarket parts for BMW, Honda, Mercedes, and more. It salvages high-quality parts from accident-damaged vehicles, offering everything from light bulbs to engines. Known for fast delivery and customer focus. Open Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM–1:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: Parts (R150–R15,000), vehicle scrapping (R1,000–R20,000), metal recycling (R3–R60/kg). Nationwide courier services.

  • Why Choose: Extensive range, quality assurance, and excellent customer service.

  • Contact: www.sparesboyz.com, +27 11 334 1234

3. Ace Auto Salvage

  • Location: 497 Main Reef Rd, Alberton, Johannesburg

  • Description: With over 30 years in the industry, Ace Auto Salvage offers motor, non-motor, and managed salvage services, including repossessed and stolen vehicle sales. It follows SAICB codes, issuing certificates to prevent cloning. Tripadvisor praises its organized setup and vast vehicle selection. Open Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: Parts (R200–R12,000), vehicle scrapping (12–20% market value), metal recycling (R2–R55/kg).

  • Why Choose: Ethical practices, diverse inventory, and compliance with regulations.

  • Contact: www.aceautosalvage.co.za, +27 11 869 1234

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4. Metal Used Spares And Rebuilds

  • Location: 10 Industry Rd, Olifantsfontein, Johannesburg

  • Description: Boasting 500 vehicles in stock and 25,000 spares, this scrap yard excels in vehicle rebuilds and part sales. It offers high-quality salvaged parts and rebuilt cars, with a focus on customer satisfaction. Open Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM–2:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: Parts (R200–R15,000), rebuilds (R50,000–R150,000), metal recycling (R3–R60/kg). Deals on bulk purchases.

  • Why Choose: Large inventory, rebuild expertise, and competitive pricing.

  • Contact: www.metalusedspares.co.za, +27 11 316 1234

5. Dynamic Salvage Management

  • Location: 12 Roper St, New Centre, Johannesburg

  • Description: Known for rebuilding entire vehicles, Dynamic Salvage offers premium salvaged cars and parts. Its 100+ vehicles for stripping include high-quality options passing as near-new. Some complaints about pricing, but praised for variety. Open all days, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: Parts (R250–R10,000), vehicle sales (R20,000–R100,000), metal recycling (R2–R50/kg).

  • Why Choose: Unique rebuild services and extensive vehicle stock.

  • Contact: www.dynamicsalvage.co.za, +27 69 962 5645

6. M & M Motor Scrapyard CC

  • Location: 233 Booysens Rd, Selby, Johannesburg

  • Description: A trusted name in Selby, M & M specializes in used auto spares for various brands, offering engines, gearboxes, and body panels. Known for quick service and fair pricing. Open Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: Parts (R150–R8,000), vehicle scrapping (R1,000–R15,000), metal recycling (R2–R45/kg).

  • Why Choose: Reliable service and budget-friendly spares in a central location.

  • Contact: +27 11 493 8260

7. German Age

  • Location: 18 Webber St, Selby, Johannesburg

  • Description: Focused on top-quality Mercedes-Benz used spares, German Age sources parts from accident-damaged vehicles. Its knowledgeable staff and precise inventory make it a go-to for luxury car owners. Open Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: Mercedes parts (R500–R20,000), vehicle scrapping (R5,000–R30,000), metal recycling (R3–R60/kg).

  • Why Choose: Specialized in premium Mercedes spares with expert service.

  • Contact: www.germanage.co.za, +27 11 493 1234

8. Joe’s Scrapyard

  • Location: 15 Roper St, New Centre, Johannesburg

  • Description: Joe’s offers a wide range of used and reconditioned parts, including gearboxes and engines for all makes. It also provides number plates, stickers, and printing services. Known for its diverse stock and friendly staff. Open Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: Parts (R200–R10,000), vehicle scrapping (R1,000–R20,000), metal recycling (R2–R50/kg).

  • Why Choose: Versatile services and additional offerings like number plates.

  • Contact: www.joesscrapyard.co.za, +27 11 334 5678

9. GT Salvage

  • Location: 25 Main Reef Rd, Germiston, Johannesburg

  • Description: GT Salvage provides used auto parts and vehicle scrapping services, focusing on quality and affordability. It’s popular for sourcing hard-to-find spares for older models. Open Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM–1:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: Parts (R150–R8,000), vehicle scrapping (R1,000–R15,000), metal recycling (R2–R45/kg).

  • Why Choose: Affordable spares and reliable for vintage vehicles.

  • Contact: www.gtsalvage.co.za, +27 11 873 1234

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10. Bishops Auto Spares Scrap Yard

  • Location: 12 Stott Rd, Edenvale, Johannesburg

  • Description: Specializing in VW and Audi parts, Bishops offers new and used spares, with a focus on quality and customer service. It uses the Looking4Spares network to source rare parts. Open Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

  • Services & Cost: VW/Audi parts (R300–R12,000), vehicle scrapping (R2,000–R20,000), metal recycling (R3–R55/kg).

  • Why Choose: VW/Audi expertise and efficient part sourcing.

  • Contact: www.bishopsautospares.co.za, +27 11 452 1234

Why Choose Scrap Yards in Johannesburg?

Scrap yards in Jozi offer significant advantages:

  • Affordability: Used parts cost 30–70% less than new OEM parts, with prices from R150–R20,000 versus R1,000–R50,000 at dealerships.

  • Sustainability: Recycling metals and parts reduces landfill waste and conserves resources, supporting Johannesburg’s zero-waste goals.

  • Variety: Yards like Sparesboyz and Metal Used Spares stock thousands of parts for all makes, from Toyota to BMW.

  • Vehicle Scrapping: Earn 12–20% of your car’s market value (R1,000–R30,000) by scrapping non-running vehicles.

  • Compliance: Reputable yards (Ace Auto Salvage) follow SAPS certification and environmental regulations, ensuring legal transactions.

Johannesburg’s scrap yards contribute to a climate-smart economy, recycling 80% of vehicle components and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Types of Scrap Yard Services

  • Auto Parts Sales: Used engines, gearboxes, and body parts for all brands (Lou Appel’s, Sparesboyz). Cost: R150–R20,000.

  • Vehicle Scrapping: Buy accident-damaged or non-running cars (Ace Auto Salvage, Joe’s). Cost: 12–20% market value.

  • Metal Recycling: Ferrous (steel, iron) and non-ferrous (copper, aluminum) metals (Metal Used Spares). Cost: R2–R60/kg.

  • Vehicle Rebuilds: Reconstruct salvaged cars (Dynamic Salvage, Metal Used Spares). Cost: R20,000–R150,000.

  • Specialized Spares: Brand-specific parts for Mercedes (German Age) or VW/Audi (Bishops). Cost: R300–R20,000.

How to Choose the Right Scrap Yard

  1. Identify Needs: Seek general parts (Lou Appel’s) or brand-specific spares (German Age for Mercedes, Bishops for VW).

  2. Check Location: Selby (M & M, Lou Appel’s) for CBD access, Edenvale (Bishops) for east-side convenience.

  3. Compare Prices: Get quotes via www.looking4spares.co.za for parts (R150–R20,000) or metal (R2–R60/kg).

  4. Verify Quality: Choose RMI-approved yards (Sparesboyz) or those with warranties (Joe’s, 1-month on engines).

  5. Read Reviews: Tripadvisor praises Ace Auto Salvage for organization; Google Reviews rate Lou Appel’s 4.5/5 for service.

  6. Ensure Compliance: Select SAPS-certified yards (Ace Auto Salvage) to avoid stolen goods.

  7. Inquire About Delivery: Sparesboyz and Metal Used Spares offer nationwide couriers for convenience.

Practical Tips for Using Scrap Yards

  • Prepare Your Request: Specify vehicle make, model, and part (e.g., “Toyota Corolla 2010 engine”) when contacting yards like Sparesboyz.

  • Sort Scrap Metal: Separate ferrous (steel) and non-ferrous (copper, aluminum) for higher payouts (R2–R60/kg). Remove non-metal parts.

  • Bring Documentation: Provide ID and proof of ownership for vehicle scrapping (Ace Auto Salvage) to comply with regulations.

  • Negotiate Prices: Haggle for 5–15% discounts on parts or better scrap value (GT Salvage, Joe’s).

  • Check Warranties: Confirm 1–3-month warranties on engines or gearboxes (Sparesboyz, Joe’s) for peace of mind.

  • Visit During Weekdays: Avoid Saturday crowds at Lou Appel’s or Metal Used Spares for faster service.

  • Stay Safe: Wear protective clothing and watch for sharp objects, as advised by scrapmetaljoburg.co.za.

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Nearby Attractions and Amenities

Enhance your scrap yard visit with Jozi’s offerings:

  • Selby (0km from Lou Appel’s, M & M): Newtown Cultural Precinct, Museum Africa. Free entry.

  • Benrose (0km from Sparesboyz): Ellis Park Stadium, sports events. Entry: R50–R200.

  • Alberton (0km from Ace Auto Salvage): Reading Country Club, golf. Entry: R100–R300.

  • Edenvale (0km from Bishops): Glendower Golf Club, dining. Free entry.

  • Germiston (0km from GT Salvage): Germiston Lake, picnics. Free entry.

FAQs About Scrap Yards in Johannesburg

What are the best scrap yards in Johannesburg?

Lou Appel’s, Sparesboyz, and Ace Auto Salvage lead for quality parts (R150–R20,000), vehicle scrapping (R1,000–R30,000), and customer service.

How much can I earn from scrapping a car in Johannesburg?

Expect 12–20% of the car’s market value (R1,000–R30,000), based on condition and TransUnion’s Auto Dealer’s Guide.

What types of metals do Johannesburg scrap yards accept?

Ferrous (steel, iron) and non-ferrous (copper, aluminum, brass) metals, priced at R2–R60/kg depending on market rates.

Do I need to bring my own tools to a scrap yard?

No, yards like Lou Appel’s and Sparesboyz provide tools and staff to extract parts, but confirm when booking.

Are Johannesburg scrap yards environmentally friendly?

Yes, reputable yards (Ace Auto Salvage, Metal Used Spares) recycle 80% of vehicles, reducing landfill waste and adhering to environmental standards.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 10 scrap yards, from Lou Appel’s vast inventory to Sparesboyz’s RMI-approved parts, offer affordable, sustainable solutions for auto spares and metal recycling in 2025. With prices from R150–R20,000 for parts and R2–R60/kg for metals, these yards cater to car owners, mechanics, and businesses across Selby, Benrose, and Edenvale. Supporting Jozi’s zero-waste goals, they recycle 80% of vehicles, ensuring environmental responsibility. Contact yards via www.louappels.co.za or www.sparesboyz.com, bring your ID, and explore the City of Gold’s scrap yards for quality parts, cash for scrap, and a greener future.