The amount a junkyard pays for a car varies widely, but you can generally expect to receive $150 to $800 for an average end-of-life vehicle. The final price is not a guess; it's a calculated offer based on three primary factors: the vehicle's scrap value (determined by its weight and current metal prices), the value of any usable salvage parts (like catalytic converters, wheels, or engines), and the costs the yard will incur for towing and processing.
Your car's worth is essentially the sum of its parts minus the junkyard's labor. The single most influential component is often the catalytic converter due to the precious metals it contains, which can sometimes be worth more than the rest of the car combined. A non-running car with a intact "cat" can fetch a significantly higher price than one without.
| Factor | Low-End Value Impact | High-End Value Impact | Key Determinants |
|---|
| Vehicle Weight | $100 - $150 (compact car) | $300 - $500 (large SUV/truck) | Current price of scrap steel/aluminum |
| Catalytic Converter | $0 (missing/damaged) | $150 - $800+ (intact, OEM) | Precious metal content (rhodium, palladium), vehicle model |
| Salvageable Parts | $50 (few usable parts) | $400+ (intact engine/transmission) | Demand for parts for your specific model, condition |
| Car's Location | -$100 (requires tow) | $0 (you deliver it) | Distance to the junkyard, need for specialized recovery |
| Vehicle Model & Year | Low demand for parts | High demand for parts (e.g., common Honda/Toyota) | Popularity of the model, rarity of specific components |
To get the best price, call several local junkyards for quotes. Have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ready, and be prepared to accurately describe the car's condition and any major working parts. Remember, the offer is negotiable. If one yard offers $250, another might offer $400 based on their current inventory needs. Your best strategy is to get multiple offers.
