Trying to sell a car that’s not in great shape is frustrating – especially if there are no buyers, the tyres are shot, or the car needs a roadworthy certificate or expensive repairs. Whether you’re dealing with non-running cars, damaged vehicles or vehicles with outstanding loans, there are still options to get rid of your car – and get cash for it.
This guide will walk you through what to do with a car that won’t sell, how to handle the paperwork and where to go to get a genuine buyer and a fair price.
We help private sellers, interstate buyers and even donation services or dealer trade-ins. You’ll get a fair price, full support with vehicle registration and expert advice on your vehicle transfer form, roadworthy certificate and more.
Options
1. Scrap Car Removal
One of the fastest ways to get rid of a car that won’t sell in a private sale is to call an old car removal service. They offer towing often for free and cash at pick-up. They’re good for cars in bad condition, with expired registration or no roadworthy certificate.
Many are also licensed vehicle recyclers so you avoid dodgy car breaking yards and your car is disposed of responsibly. Old cars removed in Melbourne through local scrap services are often eligible for same-day pick up and instant cash.
2. Cash for Your Car
There are many cash-for-cars companies that specialise in cars for cash, even if they’re not roadworthy. You can still get a cash offer based on the current market, scrap metal value or fair market estimates. Some buyers use tools to provide accurate prices factoring in the condition before purchase, brands of vehicles and average offer prices in your area.
You won’t get your original sale price, but you can still get extra cash for a car you thought was worthless.
3. Donate It to Charity
If the car isn’t worth much or you don’t want to bother, consider using a donation service. Some charities accept classic cars, desirable cars and even interstate cars. The donation process is usually easy – especially if you’re an Australian owner with all the right details, including your plate receipt, vehicle registration certificate and notice of disposal (you can submit the notice of disposal online in most states).
4. Sell the Car for Parts
If you have the time and resources, consider breaking the car down and selling it to car wreckers or scrap metal dealers. A good mechanic or auto repair person can help you identify valuable parts. Even if the car doesn’t run, components like the engine, transmission or wheels might be in good condition and fetch a good price on the scrap metal prices market.
This is a good option for classic cars or cars with conditional registration.
5. Trade It In When Buying a New Car
Some dealers will accept cars in poor condition during the dealership process. Even if it’s not roadworthy, you might still get trade-in value or a dealer guarantee. Trading in also saves on advertising costs and time spent dealing with time wasters or answering tricky questions from private buyers.
Make sure you have the registration details, vehicle transfer form and, if applicable, details of your finance provider or car loan ready.
6. Call a Local Car Wrecker or Recycler
Contact a licensed car recycler or scrapyard in your area. They’ll usually want the description of the vehicle, any repair shop invoices, and details on minor repairs or prior accident reports. A genuine buyer will inspect the car or offer an online junk car buyer’s quote.
In some cases, you may need to show your current vehicle licence paper or confirm your Australian plates and optional number plates.
Before You Get Rid of Your Car
Before handing over the car to a dealer, recycler or buyer, make sure you’ve got:
- Current registration certificate
- Buyer’s Notice of Disposal (paper or online)
- ID and proof of ownership
- Motor dealer number (if using a motor dealer)
- Finance documents (if there’s an outstanding loan)
- Bank account details (for payment)
- Login details or email address for transfer sites like VicRoads or Department of Motor Vehicle
If you’re dealing with an interstate buyer, check with your state or territory’s regulations and use a VicRoads Customer Service Centre or Australian customer service team.
Cost Factor
The selling price or average offer price of a non-running car varies on:
- Vehicle brand, year and model
- Vehicle condition
- Scrap metal prices
- Location and towing distance
- Demand in the auto recycler or scrap metal market
- Dealer guarantees or dealer trade-in value
Even if you can’t meet your reserve price, many people are surprised to get good prices from cash-for-junk cars companies or cars through dealers.
Conclusion
Even if your car is a clunker, there’s no need to let it sit in your driveway. From cash for scrap cars to donation services, there are heaps of options to get rid of a car you can’t sell – and get extra cash or peace of mind. Just make sure you’re dealing with a licensed, genuine buyer and have your paperwork ready.
FAQs
Can I sell a car without a current registration?
Yes. Many scrap yards, auto recyclers, and cash-for-cars companies will buy it. Just make sure to lodge a notice of disposal online and check with your local Department of Motor Vehicle.
Should I trade in or scrap my old car?
If your car has trade-in value, a dealer exchange might give you more. But scrap metal dealers often pay more for non-running cars or bad condition.
What if my car has an outstanding loan?
You’ll need to talk to your finance provider. Many buyers won’t go ahead without cleared finance or a bank payout letter.
Can I sell to an interstate buyer?
Yes, but make sure they are a licensed interstate motor dealer and ask for their motor dealer license number. You’ll also need to provide current vehicle and registration details.
What do I do with my plates?
You may need to return them to your local authority or keep them if you have special plates or optional number plates. Always get a plate receipt from your Australian customer service team or VicRoads Customer Service Centre.