How Much Is Your Junk Car Worth?
Use this free scrap car value calculator to estimate your scrap car value in under a minute. Get instant estimates for non-running vehicles. Most junkyards pay $200-$500 for complete cars.
Vehicle Information
Auto-filled based on vehicle type, adjust if needed
For regional price adjustments
Should You Junk It or Part It Out?
| Method | Value | Time | Effort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sell whole to junkyard | $300-$500 | 1 day | Easy |
| Part out yourself | $800-$2000 | 2-6 months | Hard |
| Donate for tax deduction | $500 | 1 week | Easy |
| Sell to CarMax/Carvana | $100-$800 | 3 days | Medium |
Tools for Removing Parts Before Junking
Pull high-value parts before scrapping and pocket the difference. A catalytic converter alone is worth $100-$300.
Pull Your Cat Converter First
Worth $100-$300 alone. Takes 15 minutes with the right tools. More if you have a Honda or Toyota.
Drain Fluids to Avoid Fees
Some yards dock $20-50 if you show up with fluids. Drain them yourself in 20 minutes.
Transport It Safely
Most junkyards offer free towing. If you're hauling it yourself, secure it properly.
Maximize Your Payout
Having the right tools means you keep more cash.
- •Remove aluminum wheels ($30-60 extra)
- •Pull copper radiator ($20-40 extra)
- •Separate battery ($10-15 core charge)
Frequently Asked Questions
Skip the scrap yard: get a real cash offer
Scrap value is only the metal. Peddle makes a firm, no-haggle offer on the whole car in about 2 minutes, with free pickup, even if it doesn't run.
Get My Instant OfferHow Much Do You Get for a Junk Car?
Even if your car no longer runs, has been in an accident, or has simply reached the end of the road, it's still worth money. The scrap value of a junk car in the U.S. is typically $200 to $500, and can climb higher for heavier vehicles, trucks, and SUVs, or cars that still have their catalytic converter. Use the calculator above to estimate your car's junk value in under a minute.
How much do you get for a junk car? It comes down to three things: the weight of the vehicle (steel is paid by the pound), the current scrap-metal price, and the valuable parts it still has, especially the catalytic converter, which alone can be worth $100-$300 (more on Honda and Toyota models). A typical sedan runs $250-$400; a large truck or SUV can reach $400-$600.
To get the most for your junk car, get quotes from several yards, always ask whether the price is guaranteed or just an estimate, and consider pulling the highest-value parts (catalytic converter, battery, aluminum wheels) yourself before handing it over. Most junkyards offer free towing within 50 miles.
Where a junk car's value comes from
Junk car value: frequently asked questions
How much do you get for a junk car?
$200-$500 for a complete car in most areas; heavier trucks and SUVs can reach $400-$600. The exact amount depends on weight, current steel prices, and whether the catalytic converter is intact.
How do I calculate my junk car's value?
Use the calculator above. Enter year, make, vehicle type, and condition. It combines steel weight, catalytic converter value, and a condition adjustment to give you an estimated range in seconds.
Can I sell a junk car without a title?
Most states require a title, but some allow junking vehicles over 10-15 years old with government ID and proof of ownership. Services like Peddle buy many cars without a title. Always confirm requirements before pickup.
Do junkyards pay more for a car that runs?
Not much. Yards care about the metal and parts, not whether it runs. Buying non-running cars is their business model, and most include free towing.
Where can I sell my junk car for fast cash?
Get quotes from local yards with our search tool, or get a firm online offer in about 2 minutes from Peddle, which offers free pickup nationwide even if the car doesn't run.
How We Calculate Junk Car Value
Our estimates are based on current scrap steel prices, typical vehicle weights, and valuable component pricing. Actual values may vary based on:
- •Scrap metal prices: Steel prices fluctuate daily based on global commodity markets
- •Vehicle condition: Complete cars worth more than stripped shells
- •Catalytic converter: Honda and Toyota cats can add $150-$300 to your total
- •Your location: Urban areas with more scrap yards typically pay better
- •Current demand: Junkyard inventory levels affect what they'll pay
Important Notes
- ⚠Prices shown are estimates only - always get quotes from multiple junkyards for the best deal
- ⚠You will need the title in most states - call ahead to confirm requirements
- ⚠Beware of bait-and-switch: If they quote $800 sight-unseen, expect them to drop the price when they arrive
- ⚠Consider pulling valuable parts first (catalytic converter, aluminum wheels) to maximize your return
Related Tools & Resources
Scrap Value Lookup
Find scrap values for specific auto parts like catalytic converters, radiators, and more.
Find Local Junkyards
Search for junkyards and auto recyclers near you.
Current Scrap Metal Prices
View today's scrap metal prices for steel and aluminum.
Carbon Impact Calculator
Calculate the environmental impact of recycling your vehicle.
En español: Guías para vender tu carro
¿Prefieres leer en español? Tenemos calculadora y guías para vender tu carro chatarra.
Calculadora de valor de carro chatarra
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Opciones legales si no tienes el título.
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