How Used Parts Shortages Are Driving Salvage Demand in South Africa

Overview: parts shortages and the rising salvage market

Global supply-chain disruption, delayed imports and higher new-part lead times have made used parts more valuable across South Africa. When original equipment manufacturer parts are slow or expensive to source, repairers and owners increasingly turn to salvage vehicles as a practical source of serviceable components. This shift is creating stronger demand for written-off, accident-damaged and non-running vehicles - and altering how owners decide whether to repair or sell.

Why this matters to vehicle owners in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban

For private owners and small fleets, longer wait times for new parts can mean extended downtime and higher labour costs. In many cases in South Africa, especially in metros and surrounding regions, buyers seeking replacement parts prefer salvage sources because they can restore a vehicle faster and at lower out-of-pocket cost. This trend increases the value of vehicles that might previously have been parked or scrapped, and it affects how insurers, repair shops and salvage buyers value damaged cars.

Market drivers behind the shortage

• Interrupted global production and shipping delays for OE parts.
• Increased demand for older-model parts as vehicles age in local fleets.
• Currency volatility raising import costs and reducing local stock availability.
• Higher repair volumes post-accident leading repair shops to source used parts.

Repair cost vs value retained (estimate for SA contexts)

Note: the figures above are indicative estimates for South Africa and will vary by make, model and part availability. When new parts have long lead times or high prices, the effective cost of repair rises - making salvage-derived components a more attractive option and increasing demand for salvage vehicles.

If you want to understand how the salvage market works and what buyers look for, see our About / How it works page for an overview of valuation and collection procedures.

When to sell versus repair in a parts-constrained market

Shortages shift the repair-versus-sell calculation. Consider selling when repair cost, expected downtime and the uncertainty of sourcing parts outweigh the benefit of retaining the vehicle. Fleet operators in particular weigh the daily cost of a vehicle out of service; for private owners the tipping point is often the total cost plus the hassle of sourcing parts.

Practical decision checklist

• How long will the required parts take to arrive?
• Are used parts available locally (reducing lead time)?
• Will repairs materially restore resale value, or will the vehicle remain marked as previously damaged?
• Is the vehicle under finance - check with your lender before selling.

For owners who prefer a simpler route, our service explains options for selling vehicles in any condition on the Sell Damaged Cars page. That resource clarifies how salvage demand can affect offers for accident-damaged cars in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and nationwide.

How the salvage-buying process adapts to parts shortages

Buyers and dismantlers accelerate inspections and collections when parts are scarce: quick assessments, immediate offers and rapid towing help recover components before they degrade. For sellers, this means a smoother path to liquidity - a damaged or non-running vehicle can be converted into cash faster because the market for usable parts is stronger.

How we evaluate vehicles in a high-demand parts market

• Core component condition (engine, transmission, ABS modules).
• Body parts with high interchangeability value (bumpers, doors, lamps).
• Electronics and trim pieces in demand for common models.
• Completeness and condition of interior components.

If you’re unsure whether to pursue repair or sale, our Sell Non-Running Car guidance explains how buyers price non-starters and salvage vehicles. We handle paperwork, free towing and payment processes so owners avoid lengthy parts hunts and storage fees.

Damage types vs typical offer impact (general guidance)

Legal, paperwork and practical tips for sellers in South Africa

In South Africa, transfer of ownership, deregistration and settlement of any finance encumbrances are important steps. Sellers should confirm whether a vehicle is under finance and notify the lender. Using a buyer that handles deregistration reduces administrative risk and speeds the process. For more about how our team manages paperwork and collection, see our homepage overview.

Tips to maximise your outcome

• Provide clear photos of the vehicle and specific damaged areas.
• Mention working systems (e.g., running engine, intact airbags, undamaged gearbox).
• Disclose flood, fire or salvage history - transparency improves trust and speeds offers.
• Have vehicle documentation ready (ID, registration, proof of ownership).

What happens after collection

After you accept an offer, buyers typically complete the paperwork, collect the vehicle with free towing and settle payment quickly. Vehicles are then assessed at dismantling facilities: parts are tested, cleaned and, where suitable, re-sold to repairers and private buyers. This efficient flow helps repair workshops secure the parts they need and reduces overall vehicle downtime across the network.

Sources

• NAAMSA (National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa) - industry data and commentary on vehicle markets in South Africa.
• Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) - policy and import/industry context affecting parts supply.
• BusinessTech - Motoring - reporting on market shifts and supply-chain stories relevant to South African motorists.

If parts shortages are affecting your repair timeline or costs, consider whether selling a damaged or non-running vehicle is the more practical and lower-risk option. Understanding salvage demand in your region helps you make an informed choice that reflects both the local market and your personal or business priorities.