If you are considering taking part in a European banger rally you will probably be on a limited budget so that will more than likely mean a trip or two to the scrapyard for essential spares.

1. Dress appropriately

Scrapyards are dangerous places so dress accordingly. Your European banger rally may be heading off for the sun but, for now, ditch the flip-flops and T-shirt and wear working boots, heavy duty overalls and a high-vis jacket.

2. Let the scrapyard operators know you’re there

When you arrive at the scrapyard, tell the operator you are there and let them know what you are scavenging for. The guys running the place can save you a lot of time and effort by telling you where you will find what you are looking for.

3. Ask the operators for help

Ask them about common spares you may be looking for. The chances are they may have already salvaged them. Common spares are normally very reasonably priced.

4. Don’t risk your livelihood

If the model you are looking for is perched on top of a couple of auto wrecks don’t clamber up the side and start working on it, it could easily topple over. If you ask them nicely the guys running the scrapyard will use their crane to move it down to ground level.

5. Take a few useful tools

Take a hammer, screwdrivers, spanners and a good wrench. You may need other specialised tools for certain spares but don’t take them when you make your first surveillance run.

6. Park your vehicle in a safe area

If you have actually driven your banger rally car to the scrapyard, be careful where you park it. You don’t want it to be mistaken for a complete write-off and stacked by crane with the other auto wrecks.

7. Ask the scrapyard operators to set any parts aside for you

If you have found the perfect car with all the spares you are looking for but you can’t scavenge them all in a single trip, talk to the operators and they may well put the car aside so others don’t help themselves.

8. Remember parts might not be in full working order

Finally, if the spare part you have salvaged for your banger rally car is bust, doesn’t fit or doesn’t work, it’s tough luck. Don’t expect your money back; everything at the scrapyard is “sold as seen” unless otherwise stated.

Can you buy a car from the scrapyard?

Yes, you can buy a car and parts from the scrapyard. It’s important to bear in mind, however, that cars might have been salvaged. This means there could be a number of things wrong with them, which would have to be repaired before they become roadworthy.