DIY Safety Guide: What to Expect When Preparing a Junk Car for Removal

Before your junk car is towed away, there are a few key steps you can take to prepare it—especially if you want a smoother, safer, and more efficient removal process. At Columbus Junk Cars Express, we help hundreds of Columbus residents remove old vehicles each year, and we know that even a little preparation can go a long way. This DIY safety guide will walk you through what to expect and how to get your car ready without unnecessary risks.

Columbus Junk Cars Express

7/15/20252 min read

Step 1: Clear Personal Belongings from the Vehicle

This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how often valuables are left behind. Before the tow truck arrives:

Check the glove box, center console, under seats, and trunk
Remove important documents, charging cables, or electronics
Take off custom accessories you want to keep (radio faceplates, vanity plates)

Once the vehicle is removed, it’s usually gone for good—so triple-check.

Step 2: Disconnect the Battery

If you feel comfortable, disconnecting the battery is a great safety precaution. This helps:

Prevent electrical shorts during the towing process
Avoid battery corrosion or acid leaks during long-term storage at the yard
Reduce the risk of fire if the car has wiring issues

Always wear gloves and avoid touching both terminals at once.

Step 3: Check for Leaks and Hazardous Fluids

Look underneath the vehicle for signs of leaking:

Oil
Coolant
Transmission or brake fluid

If you see wet spots or smell strong odors, place a tarp or absorbent pads under the vehicle. This protects your driveway and makes the area safer for the tow truck operator.

Step 4: Ensure Easy Access for the Tow Truck

Before pickup, make sure the vehicle is easily accessible:

Move any obstructions such as trash cans, tools, or other vehicles
Unlock doors if possible
Let us know if the vehicle is in a garage, tight alley, or backyard

At Columbus Junk Cars Express, we bring the right equipment—but having clear access speeds up the process.

Step 5: Secure Loose or Dangerous Parts

Junk cars often have:

Loose bumpers or panels
Hanging mirrors
Cracked glass

If you can, use duct tape or zip ties to hold these parts in place. This helps prevent injury and protects the tow operator from falling debris.

Step 6: Prepare the Title or Ownership Paperwork

To finalize the removal:

Locate your Ohio vehicle title, if available
Have your driver’s license ready
If there’s no title, let us know—we can help guide you through your options

We handle all legal paperwork at pickup to ensure a smooth and compliant transaction.

Meta Description:
Get your junk car ready for safe removal with this DIY guide. Learn expert tips from Columbus Junk Cars Express on how to prepare your vehicle step-by-step.

📍 Columbus Junk Cars Express
📞 (614) 440-1222
📧 info@columbusjunkcarsexpress.com
📍 3550 Groveport East Rd, Columbus, OH 43207
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