can you sell car at junk yard

[LeahFitz]

Yes, you can absolutely sell your car to a junkyard, also known as an auto salvage yard. This is a common and practical solution for vehicles that are no longer running, have been severely damaged in an accident, or are simply too old to be worth repairing for resale. The process is straightforward: you contact the yard, provide details about your car, receive a quote, and if you accept, they typically handle the towing and paperwork. The price you get is based on the current value of the car's scrap metal and the market demand for its usable parts, like the catalytic converter, alternator, or wheels.

The primary factor determining your car's value is its weight, as junkyards primarily make money from selling crushed metal to recyclers. However, valuable components can significantly increase the offer. For example, a functioning engine control unit (ECU) or a newer transmission can be worth hundreds of dollars to a yard that can resell them. It's crucial to have your car's title ready, as most reputable yards will require it to prove ownership and prevent the sale of stolen vehicles.

Before you commit, it's wise to get quotes from several local junkyards. Prices can vary based on their inventory needs and local scrap metal markets. Also, remember to remove all personal belongings and license plates before the tow truck arrives. Selling to a junkyard is an efficient way to get rid of an unwanted car and get some cash back, often on the same day.

Factor	Low-End Value	High-End Value	Key Influence
Vehicle Weight (Sedan vs. SUV)	$150 - $300	$400 - $600	Scrap metal price per ton
Catalytic Converter	+$50	+$500+	Precious metals content (rhodium, palladium)
Aluminum Alloy Wheels	+$25 per wheel	+$100 per wheel	Condition and market demand
Working Alternator/Starter	+$20 - $50	+$75 - $150	Core value for rebuilders
Intact Airbag System	+$0 (if deployed)	+$100 - $300	Safety part resale value
Year, Make, Model Rarity	Standard price	10% - 50% premium	Demand for specific parts

[BrooklynRose]

Yeah, just sold my old Civic to a junkyard last month. It hadn't started in years. I called a couple places, gave 'em the info, and one offered me $400 because the wheels were decent. They came and hauled it away for free. Super easy. Just make sure you have the title; they wouldn't have taken it without that. Got cash on the spot. Don't expect a fortune, but it's better than nothing and clears up space in the driveway.

[OReid]

I view it as recycling on wheels. These yards are part of the automotive ecosystem, giving end-of-life vehicles a purpose. The value isn't in the whole car but in its components and materials. A car is a collection of resources—steel, aluminum, copper, and plastic. A junkyard efficiently dismantles and sorts these materials, feeding them back into the manufacturing stream. It's a responsible choice from a sustainability perspective, preventing waste and reducing the need for virgin materials.

[JaydenDella]

From a purely practical standpoint, it's a transaction based on salvageable assets. The yard conducts a cost-benefit analysis: the revenue from scrap metal plus high-demand parts minus their labor for dismantling and transportation. Your goal is to maximize your return by accurately describing any valuable components. Research which parts on your specific model are prone to failure and thus in demand. A well-known transmission issue, for instance, could make your working transmission more valuable to them. It's a business deal.

[MacEden]

Check online for local yards with good reviews. Have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and a general description of the car's condition ready. Be honest about what's broken; it saves everyone time. Before they pick it up, take five minutes to pull out your registration, insurance cards, and any CDs or personal items you've stashed in the glove box over the years. Don't forget the license plates—you usually need to return those to the DMV. It’s a simple process if you’re prepared.