You have several options for selling your junk car that’s old, wrecked, unwanted, or undrivable. Automotive salvage yards and scrap yards buy junk cars and can be convenient choices when getting rid of a clunker. But remember, what you see as a heap of rusted metal is called a “project car” in some circles, and your trash might be the treasure someone is looking for.
Where to sell junk cars
Many companies are eager to buy junk cars, trucks, SUVs, or anything that has (or used to have) four wheels. You can usually get a quote after providing the VIN, make, model, mileage, and condition.
- A salvage yard is a place many people have in mind when they think of a “junkyard.” These businesses pay cash for junk cars and then sell usable parts to customers for their repair or restoration needs.
- An automotive scrap yard buys junk cars only for the metal. Workers dismantle vehicles and collect metal pieces by type for bulk recycling.
Depending on the model and its condition, you might collect several hundred dollars or more when you sell your junk car to a salvage yard. A scrap yard typically will pay less than that, and the weight of the vehicle’s recyclable metals determines the price. In most cases, these businesses can pick up your junk car when they buy it, though using that service may decrease how much they pay you.
See: Watch out for these common scams if you’re selling your car
Sell junk cars to individuals
There’s a very slim chance that your junk car is worth millions. However, an enthusiast rebuilding a model similar to yours might pay you more than the salvage yard is willing to pay. And defining “what is a junk car” is nearly impossible. Consider selling the car privately or putting it on the Classics on Autotrader site if it’s old enough and has any potential value.
From the archives (2020): Do you own one of these cars? It could become a desirable collectible
Donate junk cars
Another way to remove an eyesore in your driveway is to donate a junk car to a charity. Many organizations will happily take your vehicle donation. Then, the group sells it and keeps the proceeds, and you can check with your tax professional to see if you can benefit from a tax break.
See: This is what might really happen to your donated car
Junk cars without titles
Some salvage yard operators will pay cash for junk cars without titles, provided you have the vehicle’s registration, bill of sale, or other documentation proving ownership. Laws for titles vary by state, and you may be exempt from needing a car title if the vehicle meets specific requirements. Reputable junkyards will follow state requirements regarding titles for junk cars.
This story originally ran on Autotrader.com.
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