How much is my scrap car worth?

When vehicles are no longer fit to drive or the cost of repair is more than the value of the vehicle itself, car or vans can be traded in as scrap metal. The vehicle will then be responsibly recycled or be salvaged for spare parts to repair other vehicles.
 
You can drive your vehicle to an authorised treatment facility (ATF), scrap metal or breakers yard if it is roadworthy. If not, you can usually arrange free collection from any location of your choice, that has suitable access.
 
You can get a quote online in advance to give you the value of your vehicle: https://recycleacar.com/. This is based on the Driver Vehicle and Licensing Agency (DVLA’s) record of weight for the particular make and model.
 
When the vehicle arrives at the scrap yard or ATF it will be inspected to make sure that it is complete and if everything is as expected, you will be paid the amount quoted in advance directly into your bank account.

How much does it cost you to scrap vehicle?

Nothing! You get paid for scrapping or salvaging your vehicle, directly into your bank account.
You can drop off your vehicle or, in most cases, arrange for free collection.

What’s the average price for a scrap vehicle?

There is no one size fits all price for scrapping a vehicle as there are many factors which affect the final value
On average, you could expect anywhere from £150–£500 for a typical scrap car, though it varies widely.

What affects the value of a scrap car?

A number of factors can determine how much a scrap car is worth.
The value of a scrap vehicle depends on:

  • The vehicle’s weight
  • The make and model of the car (for salvage)
  • The condition of the vehicle (whether it is complete or missing parts, such as a catalytic converter).
  • Your chosen ATF or scrap dealer (scrap prices can vary by location, metal prices and services offered).
  • If the vehicle can be salvaged for parts or resold, or is completely end of life for recycling.

What if you remove parts before scrapping the vehicle?

If you remove parts from your vehicle before taking it to a scrap or salvage yard or ATF, you are responsible for disposing of them legally and it will also reduce the final price paid.
Oil, battery acid and other fluid, such as coolants, are classed as hazardous waste and need to be handled according to strict regulations
Removing the engine, the catalytic converter or other parts will affect the weight and the price paid. Some ATFs or scrap yards may reject vehicles that are incomplete if they have not been notified in advance.

Ready to scrap your car?

Scrapping your vehicle through Recycle a Car is a safe, legal and responsible way to earn money from your old motor.  With free collection, competitive prices and help with the paperwork for DVLA, the Recycle a Car team make scrapping your vehicle hassle-free.
Get an online quote here in minutes, all you need is your:

  • Vehicle registration number
  • Postcode
  • Contact number

If you have any other questions about how much your scrap vehicle is worth, call our friendly team on 0345 206 4000.

Ready to scrap your car? Get a quote today!