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Vehicle parts occupy a complicated space in scrap metal law. They are high-value, high-theft-risk items, and many states have specific regulations that go beyond standard seller ID requirements.
Most Regulated Vehicle Parts
- Catalytic converters — Heavily regulated in 40+ states. See the full catalytic converter guide.
- Airbags and airbag modules — Regulated in several states; illegal to sell non-deployed airbags in some jurisdictions
- Engines and transmissions — Many states require VIN documentation matching the donor vehicle
- Wheels and rims — Some states require vehicle VIN if selling multiple sets from a single seller
Best Practice: Vehicle-Level Documentation
For any vehicle component purchase: obtain the seller vehicle title or current registration for the source vehicle, and verify the VIN on the documentation matches any VIN stamp on the part itself. This creates a clear chain of ownership that protects you in any subsequent investigation.
Defaced VIN stamps: A removed or defaced VIN stamp on a vehicle part is an immediate red flag. Under federal law (49 U.S.C. § 33119), it is a crime to possess a part with a removed or falsified VIN with intent to sell. Decline the purchase and document the refusal.
FAQ
Most state laws provide exemptions for purchases from licensed motor vehicle dealers, salvage yards, and dismantlers — these businesses already maintain vehicle title documentation as part of their own licensing. However, you should still record the business name, license number, and relevant VINs when purchasing high-value parts from them.
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