How to Recycle Automotive Electronics
Electronic control units (ECUs), navigation systems, radios, sensors, and wiring harnesses containing valuable metals like gold, silver, and copper. Modern vehicles contain 30-50 ECUs managing everything from engine performance to entertainment systems.
- 1Remove electronics carefully to avoid damage
- 2Keep wiring harnesses attached when possible
- 3Remove personal data from navigation/infotainment systems
- 4Separate different electronic component types
- 5Protect circuit boards from moisture and physical damage
- 6Bundle similar items together for efficient recycling
- Electronic waste recycling facilities
- Auto dismantlers specializing in electronics
- Scrap metal dealers with electronics processing
- Some auto parts stores (ECU core exchange programs)
Contains valuable precious metals in circuit boards. Wiring harnesses contain significant copper value. Some ECUs may have core exchange programs with manufacturers.
Electronic components contain precious metals, rare earth elements, and copper. Proper recycling recovers valuable materials and prevents toxic components from entering landfills.
Estimated value: $10-100+ depending on component type and precious metal content
Do I need to remove personal data before recycling?
Yes, always clear personal information from navigation systems, phones, and infotainment systems. Most recyclers will also wipe data as part of processing.
Are ECUs worth more as cores or scrap?
Check for manufacturer core exchange programs first - functional ECUs may be worth more as cores ($50-200+) than as scrap metal ($10-50).