5 Tips for Selling Your Junk Car Fast
That junk car you have sitting around could be worth hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. So rather than let it sit rusting away in your backyard, why not sell that hunk of junk for some cold hard cash! If you find selling a car overwhelming or have never done it before, let this be your guide to selling your car fast and to get the most money out of it you can.
The longer your car sits unused, the less it is worth. So as soon as you are done with the vehicle it’s smart to get started on selling it. It doesn’t matter the condition of the vehicle–there is an option for you.
1. Should I Sell My Junk Car “As Is”?
Your first option is to list the car “as is” — faults and all. If you choose to list your car online or in the newspaper “as is”, it is important to note any issues you are aware of in the vehicle and make it clear that the car may have other problems. A buyer could try to come back to you and ask you to pay for repairs if you don’t disclose any problems the car may have.
This option is best for anyone who doesn’t want to fuss with repairing the car and also has some time to sell the car. It may take awhile for your car to catch someone’s interest, so be prepared that your car may be sitting in your driveway for some time.
You can also bring it to a used car dealer and see what they will give you. It will likely be a low offer, but this is a simple way to get rid of the car fast.
2. Should I Sell My Junk Car for Parts?
Whether or not it is worth breaking down your car and selling the parts depends on two things.
One, is your car in good shape and has usable parts? If the car was in an accident, but otherwise is in working shape, it may be worth the effort to get the most out of the car that you can.
Two, are you adept enough with cars to take the car apart? If car maintenance is in your wheelhouse and you feel confident, go ahead! You can easily resell the battery, wing mirrors, center console, stereo unit, lights, seats, wheels and tires and more.
Selling for parts is the best way to get all the value of the car that you can, but once you’ve sold the valuables, what can you do with the body?
3. Should I Sell My Junk Car as Scrap Metal?
Once you’ve disassembled the car, you’ll be left with the body of the car, which can be sold as scrap metal.
However, even if you don’t sell the parts, you can still sell the whole car to a scrap metal buyer, such as Junk Car Traders. If you car is worthless and you can’t sell the parts, you can at least get the value for the metal. In this case, large SUVs and trucks get more than smaller cars, as there is more metal.
Since scrap metal buyers still have to separate out the plastics and different metals, their prices are low and you may not get the most for your junk car that you can. But if you’re looking for a quick, simple way to dispose of your junker, selling for scrap is a good option.
4. Should I Sell My Junk Car to a Junkyard or Auto Salvage Yard?
A junkyard or auto salvage yard is one of the best ways to dispose of your junk car. You should contact your local junkyard or salvage yard ahead of time to ensure they take junk cars, though, because not all will take them. We at Junk Car Traders service the whole nation — from California to Alabama— and are happy to buy any car.
Auto salvage yard specialize in junk cars and will usually break down your car for parts and recycle any available items. If you’ve already sold parts of your car, make sure to let them know, as this is often how they make their profit on the car.
If selling to a junkyard or auto salvage yard, find the one who will pick up and tow the car for free. Some junkyards will require you to bring it to the yard or have a fee for towing, but reputable salvage yards will tow your car free of charge.
To quickly find a local auto salvage yard, use the Auto Salvage Yard Directory to find one in your city.
5. Should I Sell My Junk Car to Online?
A newer junk car market has appeared in recent years online. These buyers claim to buy any car quickly and simply.
These companies are likely to offer less than the methods listed above, but are an easy way to be rid of your junker. You may need to research as to whether they are available to pick up your car in your city.
Some examples of these companies include We Buy Any Car or Peddle.
If using online sellers, shop around and read reviews to be sure you are getting a good deal.
Last Thoughts
When selling your junk car, it is smart to do your research before jumping in.
Depending on the condition of your vehicle and your knowledge of cars, you may be able to get more money selling parts than selling as is. But if you just want to be rid of the car, selling as is to one of the various buyers is easiest.
You want to be aware of buying scams — never sell for anything other than cash or a check. Some sellers may offer vouchers or coupons that ultimately are not likely to be worth much. You also want to find someone who will tow the car for free — as reputable sellers likely will pick up the car themselves.
Selling a junk car is a great way to get some extra cash that you can put towards a new ride. Now that you’ve read our guide, you’re ready to go!
