Cash for Scrap Cars: 4 Things You Need to Know

Last updated on: April 19, 2024

That old sedan has been sitting in your garage for months and doesn’t run anymore—what can you do with it? You might be surprised to learn that you’re sitting on a goldmine. You can get cash for scrap cars, even if they’re in poor condition, which is a great way to get rid of an unwanted car. Lots of junkyards are happy to pay you instant cash—while it might not make you rich, any extra cash is always a good thing. But how does it all work? Keep reading to find out four things you need to know about selling your old car for cash.

  1. Cash for Scrap Cars Sounds too Good to Be True—Is It?

Is an instant cash offer for cars legitimate? It’s normal to feel suspicious of things that seem too good to be true, but in this case, it’s legit! Scrap car dealers are happy to pay cash for your unwanted car, since they can break it down into parts and sell them individually. Some may sell the parts to mechanics or dealers looking for something specific, while others can sell the metals from the car, which can be repurposed.

  1. The Value Varies Per Car

So, if you get a cash offer for a car, how much will you get? There’s not a simple answer for this, as it will vary based on the size of your car, plus its age and condition. Generally though, cars being scrapped for metal are priced by weight, so a truck or SUV is worth more than a hatchback. You can sell your car quickly though and get some cash you probably weren’t expecting, which is always a good thing!

  1. You Can Shop Around Before Selling

A tip—when selling, you don’t need to sell to the first junkyard you see! It’s ok to shop around and call a number of companies for a quote. They’ll assess your car and give you a price in advance, so you can decide to sell to whoever has the best price. However, if your car can’t be driven and needs to be towed, you probably don’t need to take it anywhere too far away.

  1. Some Parts Have More Value Than Others

Some of the most valuable parts of a car include the GPS system, engine, and catalytic converter. This is because converters contain a precious metal called palladium, which is incredibly high in value. Sell Your Car for Cash Today If you’re interested in cash for scrap cars, we hope this guide helps you learn what to expect from the process. To get started, research junkyards in your area and give them a call—they can tell you how you can sell your car. Not only will you get rid of that old, run-down vehicle sitting in your driveway, but you’ll make some easy, sweet cash! Did you find this article helpful? If so, please keep reading to find more great content.