Wondering how much a junkyard will pay for your car? You’re trying to figure out if that old vehicle is worth more than just the space it’s taking up. Getting a clear answer can be frustrating.
The typical payout for a junk car from a junkyard is between $250 and $500. This price is primarily based on the vehicle’s weight in scrap metal. However, factors like the car’s year, make, model, completeness, and whether it has high-value parts can significantly increase this amount.
Based on our analysis of thousands of transactions and current market data for 2026, we’ve created this guide to demystify the process. You will learn exactly how junkyards calculate their offers. This guide reveals how to get the most money for your junk car.
Key Facts
- Average Payout Range: Most complete junk cars fetch between $250 and $500, demonstrating a consistent baseline value based on aggregated data analysis.
- Weight is the Primary Factor: Heavier vehicles like trucks and SUVs command higher prices, as their value is fundamentally tied to the current price per ton of scrap steel.
- Catalytic Converters are Gold: A single catalytic converter can add $50 to over $800 to an offer, as highlighted by industry analysis of precious metal recovery values.
- “Complete” Cars Pay More: Industry standards show that junkyards reduce offers for vehicles with missing parts, often by more than the part’s individual worth.
- Free Towing is Standard: Reputable junk car buyers almost always include free junk car removal in their offer, a crucial factor when comparing quotes.
How Much Will a Junkyard Pay for Your Car?
You can typically expect a junkyard to pay between $250 and $500 for a complete junk car. This price is primarily based on the vehicle’s weight in scrap metal. However, factors like the car’s year, make, model, completeness, and whether it has high-value parts like a catalytic converter can increase this payout significantly.
Based on our analysis of market data for 2026, this range represents a reliable starting point for an average-sized sedan. Heavier vehicles like SUVs and trucks will naturally start at a higher base price due to their greater weight in scrap metal. The final cash offer you receive is a combination of this base scrap value plus the added value of any high-demand, salvageable parts.
The ultimate payout is a direct reflection of how much the salvage yard can profit from your vehicle. They look at it as two things: a block of raw material (scrap metal) and a collection of inventory (used auto parts). But how is that final number calculated, and how can you ensure you get the highest possible offer? The next section breaks down their exact formula.
How Do Junkyards Calculate Your Car’s Value?
Junkyards calculate a car’s value based on three main factors: the car’s weight in scrap metal, the demand for its salvageable parts, and its operational condition. The scrap value is determined by multiplying the vehicle’s weight by the current price per ton for scrap steel. The value of individual parts, like the catalytic converter, engine, and transmission, is then added on top of that base scrap value.
This calculation method is the industry standard for pricing. It allows a salvage yard to determine a guaranteed profit margin on every vehicle they acquire. Understanding these three pillars of value empowers you to know what your junk car is worth and negotiate a better price.
Here is a breakdown of how these factors influence your final offer.
2026 Junk Car Value Estimation Table
| Vehicle Type & Condition | Estimated Curb Weight (lbs) | Estimated Scrap Value (at ~$180/ton) | Potential Parts Value | Estimated Total Payout |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Sedan (e.g., Civic) | ~2,800 lbs | ~$250 | +$50 to $200 | $300 – $450 |
| Mid-Size Sedan (e.g., Camry) | ~3,300 lbs | ~$300 | +$75 to $250 | $375 – $550 |
| Small SUV (e.g., RAV4) | ~3,500 lbs | ~$315 | +$100 to $400 | $415 – $715 |
| Full-Size Truck (e.g., F-150) | ~4,500 lbs | ~$405 | +$150 to $600 | $555 – $1005+ |
| Running Condition Premium | N/A | N/A | Adds to Parts Value | +$100 to $500 |
Pro Tip: You can search online for “local scrap steel prices” to get a real-time idea of the current market rate per ton in your area. This can help you estimate your car’s base value.
What Is the Role of Your Car’s Weight and Scrap Price?
A car’s scrap value is the guaranteed minimum price you will be offered. It is calculated by multiplying its weight in tons by the current market price for scrap steel. As of January 2026, prices for ferrous metal fluctuate but typically average between $150 and $220 per ton. Heavier vehicles, such as full-size trucks and SUVs, will always have a higher base scrap value than a compact sedan.
Scrap Value Formula:
(Vehicle’s Curb Weight in lbs / 2,000) * (Current Price Per Ton) = Scrap Value
For example, a 4,000 lb SUV at a scrap price of $200 per ton is worth exactly $400 in scrap metal alone (2 tons * $200). This is the foundational value before any salvageable parts are even considered. Once a junkyard processes the vehicle, it’s crushed and sold to a shredder facility, where it becomes shredder feed grade steel for recycling.
How Do High-Value Salvageable Parts Increase the Offer?
High-value salvageable parts are what can turn a $300 offer into a $700 offer. While the car’s body is worth its weight in steel, individual components can be sold for much more. The catalytic converter is the most valuable part on a junk car. This is because it contains precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which are essential for PGM recovery.
A single catalytic converter can add $50 to over $800 to your car’s value, depending on the model. Other high-demand used auto parts that boost your offer include:
- Engine & Transmission: If they are in running or rebuildable condition.
- Alternators & Starters: These are common replacement parts with consistent demand.
- Aluminum Rims: Aluminum is a valuable non-ferrous metal, and rims are easily sold.
- GPS/Infotainment Systems: Modern electronic components hold significant value.
- Intact Body Panels: Doors, fenders, and bumpers from popular models are always in demand at pull-a-part yards.
Think of your junk car not just as a lump of steel, but as a container of valuable spare parts. A complete vehicle with these components intact is far more attractive to an auto salvage yard.
How Can You Get the Most Money for Your Junk Car?
To get the most money for a junk car, get quotes from at least three different junkyards, know your vehicle’s exact weight and condition, and negotiate the price. Confirm whether the offer includes free towing, as towing fees can significantly reduce your net payout. Do not remove valuable parts like the catalytic converter, as junkyards pay more for a “complete vehicle.”
Following a few simple steps can add hundreds of dollars to your final payout. Here is the process our experts use to ensure a top-dollar offer.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Never accept the first offer. Contact at least three local junkyards or online junk car buyers. This creates competition and gives you leverage.
- Know Your Car’s Details: Have the VIN, year, make, model, and curb weight ready. Be honest about the car’s condition, whether it’s a non-running car or has a damaged body.
- Don’t Remove Parts: Selling the car as a “complete vehicle” gets the best price. Junkyards factor the value of the catalytic converter and battery into their quote. If they’re missing, they will deduct more than what you’d get selling them yourself.
- Confirm Free Towing: Always ask, “Does your offer include free towing with no hidden fees?” A surprise $150 towing charge can sour a good deal. Reputable buyers always provide free junk car removal.
- Negotiate the Price: Once you have multiple offers, you can negotiate. If Buyer A offers $350 and Buyer B offers $300, you can ask Buyer B if they can beat the $350 offer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
* Accepting the very first offer you receive.
* Forgetting to remove your license plates and personal belongings.
* Not notifying your insurance company and local DMV that you’ve sold the vehicle.
Junkyard vs. Private Sale: Which Is Better for Your Old Car?
Selling to a junkyard offers speed and convenience with instant cash and free towing, but typically provides a lower payout. A private sale can yield a higher price, especially for running or classic cars, but requires significant time, effort, and dealing with potential buyers. The right choice depends on your vehicle’s condition and your personal priorities.
This decision is a classic trade-off between price and convenience. Answering the question “is it better to scrap a car or sell it privately?” requires looking at your specific situation.
| Feature | Selling to a Junkyard | Selling Privately |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Non-running, totaled, or very old cars | Running cars, classic/niche models, project cars |
| Payout | Lower (based on scrap/parts value) | Potentially Higher (based on market value) |
| Speed | Very Fast (often same-day cash & pickup) | Slow (can take weeks or months) |
| Effort | Low (they handle paperwork and towing) | High (you handle listings, calls, showings) |
| Convenience | High (“hassle-free disposal”) | Low (requires negotiation and time) |
| Certainty | High (guaranteed offer) | Low (buyers can back out, no-shows) |
The Verdict: A junkyard is the best option for a broken-down car, a totaled vehicle from an insurance claim, or any car that is a financial burden and needs to be gone quickly. A private sale is only worth the effort if your car is running well, has desirable features, or is a niche model that might appeal to an enthusiast. A third alternative for some is a car donation, which can provide a tax credit.
How Does the Junk Car Selling Process Work?
The process of selling a junk car involves three main steps: first, get an instant quote online or by phone; second, schedule a free pickup time for the tow truck; and third, sign over the title and receive cash on the spot when the driver arrives. The entire process is designed to be fast, simple, and convenient, often completed within 24-48 hours.
Here is what the “how it works” process looks like from start to finish:
- Request a Quote: The first step is to contact a junk car buyer. You can get an instant online offer through a website form or by calling them directly. You’ll need to provide your car’s basic information: VIN, year, make, model, and an honest assessment of its condition.
- Schedule Pickup: Once you accept a guaranteed offer, you will schedule a pickup time that works for you. Most companies can arrange for a flatbed tow truck to arrive for the junk car removal within a day or two, sometimes even on the same day.
- Get Paid: At the scheduled appointment time, the tow truck driver will arrive. They will quickly inspect the vehicle to verify its condition. You will then sign the title, hand over the keys, and receive your cash payment on the spot.
Have these items ready for a smooth pickup:
* Vehicle Title (signed in the correct place)
* Car Keys
* Your State-Issued Photo ID
What Paperwork Do You Need to Sell a Junk Car?
In most states, a title is required to sell a vehicle to a junkyard. However, some states have exceptions for older cars (e.g., over 15-20 years old), allowing a sale with a valid registration and a bill of sale. To sell a junk car, you will typically need the vehicle’s title to prove ownership and a valid state-issued ID. Always check your local DMV regulations, as selling without a title is not possible everywhere.
Selling With a Title
This is the simplest and most common scenario. The vehicle title is the legal document that proves ownership. To transfer the title, you will sign it in the designated “seller” section. The junk car buyer will then handle the rest of the DMV title transfer. This ensures a legal transfer of ownership and releases you from any future liability for the vehicle.
Selling Without a Title
Selling a junk car without a title is more complicated but sometimes possible. If you lost the title, your best option is to apply for a duplicate from your state’s DMV. If that isn’t feasible, some states allow you to sell a car that is over a certain age (usually 15+ years) with alternative proof of ownership, such as a valid registration and a photo ID. A bill of sale will also be required. Be aware that not all junkyards will buy a car without a title, even where it is legal.
Legal & Trust Disclaimer: We are automotive experts, not lawyers. Title regulations vary significantly by state. Always verify your local DMV’s requirements for selling or junking a vehicle to ensure a legal and secure transaction. Reputable, licensed auto wreckers will always require proper proof of ownership.
FAQs About how much will junkyard pay for car
How much will a junkyard pay for a car that runs?
A junkyard will pay a premium of $100 to $500 more for a car that runs and drives. A running vehicle is more valuable because its engine, transmission, and drivetrain components are proven to be functional. These parts can be sold for a higher price as used parts, and a running car also makes logistics easier for the salvage yard.
Will a junkyard pick up my car for free?
Yes, most reputable junkyards and online car buyers offer free junk car removal. This is a standard part of their service and should be included in your offer. Always confirm that “free towing” is included, as some less reputable operators may add it as a hidden fee that reduces your final cash payment.
How much will I get for a totaled car?
The payout for a totaled car is calculated based on its scrap weight and salvageable parts. If the damage is cosmetic but the engine and transmission are intact, you could still receive a strong offer. If the vehicle’s frame is bent and major components are damaged, the value will be much closer to its base scrap metal price alone.
Do junkyards pay more for SUVs and trucks?
Yes, junkyards almost always pay more for SUVs and trucks than for sedans. This is because they are heavier, which yields more scrap metal value. Additionally, their parts, such as engines, transmissions, and four-wheel-drive systems, are often in higher demand and command better prices on the used parts market.
What is the scrap price of a car per pound?
Scrap car prices are quoted per ton, but it averages out to between $0.07 and $0.11 per pound. For example, if the current price for scrap steel is $200 per ton (2,000 lbs), that equals $0.10 per pound. A 3,500-pound car would therefore be worth approximately $350 in its scrap metal value.
Can I sell a car with a blown engine?
Yes, you can absolutely sell a car with a blown engine to a junkyard. While you won’t get a premium for a running vehicle, the car still has significant value. This value comes from its scrap weight and its other salvageable parts like the catalytic converter, body panels, alternator, and interior components.
Should I remove the catalytic converter before scrapping my car?
No, you should not remove the catalytic converter before scrapping your car. While the part is valuable, junkyards factor its presence into their quote. A car arriving without a catalytic converter is considered “incomplete.” The junkyard will significantly reduce their offer, often by more than what you could get for the part on your own.
How do I get an instant junk car quote?
You can get an instant junk car quote by using an online form or calling a junk car buyer directly. You will need to provide your vehicle’s Year, Make, Model, and VIN. You also need to give an honest description of its condition (e.g., running or non-running, missing parts, extent of damage). Most reputable services provide a guaranteed offer in minutes.
How long does it take to get cash for a junk car?
The process is very fast; you can often get cash for your junk car in 24 to 48 hours. After accepting a quote, most companies can schedule a pickup for the same day or the next day. You will receive your cash payment on the spot when the tow truck driver arrives to pick up the vehicle.
Will a junkyard buy a car with a lien on the title?
No, a junkyard cannot legally buy a car that has an active lien on the title. A lien indicates that a bank or lender has a financial claim to the vehicle. You must pay off the loan and have the lienholder release the title before you can legally sell the car to anyone, including a salvage yard.
Key Takeaways: How Much a Junkyard Will Pay for a Car Summary
- Expect $250-$500 as a Baseline: This is the typical range for a complete, average-sized junk car. The final offer depends heavily on the factors below.
- Value is a Three-Part Formula: Your car’s final price is determined by: 1) its weight in scrap metal, 2) the value of its salvageable parts (especially the catalytic converter), and 3) whether it’s in running condition.
- Weight is the Guaranteed Value: Heavier vehicles like trucks and SUVs have a higher base value simply because they contain more scrap metal. This is your guaranteed minimum payout.
- A “Complete Car” Pays More: Do not remove parts like the battery or catalytic converter before selling. Junkyards pay a premium for complete vehicles and will deduct more from the price than you can gain by selling parts individually.
- Get Multiple, All-Inclusive Quotes: Always contact at least three buyers and confirm that their offer includes free towing with no hidden fees to ensure you’re comparing apples-to-apples prices.
- A Title is Crucial: Having the vehicle’s title in your name is the most important piece of paperwork. Selling without a title is difficult and not possible in many states.
- Junkyard vs. Private Sale is Speed vs. Price: Choose a junkyard for a fast, convenient sale of a non-running car. Choose a private sale only if you have a running vehicle and the time to wait for a higher payout.
Final Thoughts on Getting the Best Price for Your Junk Car
Selling your old, unwanted vehicle to a junkyard doesn’t have to be a mystery. By understanding that its value comes from a clear formula—scrap weight, parts, and condition—you are no longer guessing. You are equipped to get a fair and competitive offer.
The process is designed for speed and convenience, offering a hassle-free solution to dispose of a broken-down car while putting cash in your pocket. Remember to get multiple quotes, have your title ready, and confirm free towing. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the sale and ensure you receive the best possible price for your junk car.
