The science of selling junk cars
If your car has broken down beyond repair, you may be able to get a little money to soften the blow. Auto repair shops will buy salvageable parts from junk cars and offer them at a greatly reduced price to their customers. If your car’s frame is wrecked, some of your engine parts may still be useful, and if the engine is shot, there are probably other parts that can be used. Either way, call several junkyards and find out what kind of price you can get for your vehicle before you just tow it away.
The first question a junkyard will ask is if you own the title to the car. You must have a printed copy of the title with your name on it as the owner, as legitimate junkyards will only buy junk cars from their owners and not from a second party.
Before you start calling junkyards in your area, make a list of the damage and currently missing parts on your vehicle. Also note which systems are not working and be sure to watch tire wear. The condition of interior items may also be helpful to record. The yard owner will likely ask you about all of these things while determining what price to offer. They will probably offer you between $35 and $350 for the car, depending on its condition.
If your engine doesn’t run, but requires an easy and inexpensive repair, it may be worth the cost as a running car will likely fetch you a higher amount of money. Just remember that it will probably be around $300, so don’t spend a lot of money just to get the car running. You don’t want to invest more money than you’ll get at the junkyard!
Call several junkyards near your home or the location of the wrecked car to get the best price. If your car is not running and there is no way to tow it to the yard, be sure to find places close enough that are willing to tow the car away for a small fee or maybe even free. You don’t want to pay for a long haul tow when you’re only getting a couple hundred dollars for the vehicle! If possible, use your own (or a friend’s) tow bar, tow dolly, or other legal towing resource and take the vehicle to the yard yourself. Who knows, the junkyard owner may agree to pay you a little more if you don’t have to worry about picking up the car and hauling it to their lot.
In summary, before trying to sell junk cars, you will need to do the following:
– Obtain the title of the vehicle and enter your name as the owner
– Assess and list damage, working parts and interior condition
– Call various junkyards in the area for the highest quote
– Be prepared to tow the vehicle to the junkyard yourself if you want the best price