Check the joins, too. Look where the cooling coil connects with the tanks. If you find an accumulation of sediment or mineral deposits from external corrosion, this is a pretty good indicator of poor condition.
If the last time you visited a junk yards near me for cars was more than a decade ago, you may be surprised by the changes. Long ago, the carcasses of automobiles were strewn lazily throughout a plot of dirt. If you needed to find a particular component, you would spend time looking through the wreckage hoping to stumble upon it. Asking an employee for help was a hit-or-miss proposition; they would often be unaware of the items within their inventory.
There is not a certain type of vehicle that junk yards do not buy, but they tend to be most interested in automobiles whose parts are in high demand. For example, it would probably be easier to sell a 2005 Honda to a salvage yard that offers cash for cars than it would be to sell a 1985 Honda.
Don't be greedy. Now, I understand that this is all about getting the top dollar for your car, but, there is a walk-away price for any business. Most salvagers are only willing to pay a little more then half of what they can make off the car. So, if your asking price is more then 65% of what they can make, then they will more then likely walk away from it.
Your forth option is to donate your car to charity. Instead of cash, you will get a very nice tax deduction. Most charities will accept a vehicle that does not run or has major problems. They will also pickup your car donation for free. The charity will sell your car for the most money possible, whether that is to a used car dealer or a scrap yard. Since charities can provide both places a higher volume of vehicles, they receive a higher price for a car than a private person can. That money is used by the charity to support with their cause.
Looking auto wrecker near me is easy. The sites are vast that will have many parts that you need. Your most difficult task will be finding the sight that will become your favorite. Bookmark a few that are appealing to you after visiting them so you know where to find them again.