How Much Do Car Scrapyards Pay For Used Cars That Still Run?

Introduction

When selling a used vehicle for scrap, buyers at junkyards consider many factors before offering an estimated price. How do scrap car removal companies establish a price for used cars? Does pricing differ between running old vehicles versus non-running cars? How would they go about pricing a running auto?

It depends on a range of factors, primarily considering the value and condition of the vehicle in question. Offers are often less than half of the market value, especially for end-of-life vehicles. Running vehicles will likely get you more cash, as they generally contain usable parts that a junker can sell.

Factors that Influence the Price of Your Running Car

Car scrapyards consider many factors when determining a price for your car. Knowing these factors can help you understand the offers being presented to you.

1. 1. Car Make, Model, and Year:
      If your make and model of car is popular and has good demand for parts, it’s likely to be worth more money. The examples of Honda or Toyota are well-known brands and command a price based on brand recognition. Newer cars also tend to have parts that are in better overall condition, which could lead to a higher price.
      
   2. Car Condition:
      Your car runs, starts, and has a functioning engine, transmission, and other important components, and is worth more than a vehicle that won’t start. In general, car scrapyards value cars with working engines, transmissions, and reusable parts, regardless of exterior condition. If your car has major mechanical damage or body degradation, your price may drop substantially.
   3. Weight/Metal Content:
      The weight of your car plays a role in its scrap value. Heavier vehicles like trucks and SUVs contain more metal, which can be recycled, making them more valuable. The type of metal also matters; for example, aluminum parts might be worth more than steel.
   4. Current scrap metal prices:
      Scrap Metal prices fluctuate with market demand. When prices are high, you will be paid more for your vehicle. Checking metal prices before selling is recommended.
   5. Location:
      Where you are could influence how much you are paid. Where there are many scrap yards in the city, competition can mean receiving more money. There may be few options in rural counties, and that could drive the price down.

Also Read: What Paperwork Is Needed to Scrap a Car in Ontario?

How Are Cars That Run Priced At A Scrap Yard?

Scrap car buyers use the same base criteria for all vehicles, but adjust the price for running cars based on the condition and usability of specific parts, based on the useful parts and materials of the car. Some of the parts scrap car buyers will check for in a running vehicle include:

• • Running Engine:
    The engine is the most valuable working part. If it starts and runs, it will hold some value for resale. When someone wants to buy your scrap vehicle, a scrap yard will typically start the car and see if it leaks, watch for unusual noises, check the idle, and subsequently assess the condition. If the engine works, it will save the scrap yard a lot of time because it can sell it to someone looking for a used engine or to somebody who might need it as a replacement part for their car. In the end, if the engine works properly, you will get a better overall estimate.
  • Wheels & Tires:
    Wheels also get some money because of the metal it is made from. Tires in very good condition and with enough tread remaining will also fetch some good dollars. The scrap yard will either sell them with the car or sell them to a nearby tire shop. If the vehicle is all original and it has usable tires, then you could also see a nominal increase in your overall amount quoted.
  • Lights and Electrical Systems:
    Working headlights, taillights, and indicators are useful parts for resale. Many people look for affordable replacement lights for older cars. If your vehicle’s lights are not cracked and still work, the scrapyard will consider that when making an offer. Functioning electrical systems like the battery, power windows, and dashboard electronics also add to the value.
  • Transmission:
    If the car moves under its power, the transmission is likely in working shape. Car scrapyards value this part because buyers often need affordable replacement transmissions. Automatic ones usually bring in more cash than manual ones because they cost more when bought new.
  • Body Panels and Doors:
    Straight, dent-free body panels, doors, and bumpers can be removed and sold. A scrap yard checks for damage, rust, and repaint jobs. If your car’s body is in good shape, even with minor wear, it adds a little extra to your price.
  • Catalytic Converter:
    This component contains precious metals, including platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Even a rusty, tired old car’s catalytic converter might still have hundreds of dollars of value. While dismantling a running car, if the original catalytic converter is still present, it will increase what the scrap yard will offer, too.
  • Interior Parts:
    If you have good upholstery, a good dash, or a good steering wheel, those items can be worth saving. Scrap yards take out upholstery, dash, and steering wheels and sell them to individuals repairing similar makes and models. Clean, usable interiors can increase your offer.

Also Read: 14 Questions to Ask Before Scrapping Your Car

Conclusion 

If you plan on scrapping a car that still runs, knowing how scrap yards come up with their price will be valuable. Scrap prices are not based solely on the metal’s weight. There is added value with a running engine, working wheels, working lights, or a clean interior. A lot of people miss out on better deals because they believe that car scrapyards offer a flat fee for every car that is old car. This is not the case at all.

If you are looking to sell your car to a scrap yard in the GTA, you should deal with people who check your car properly and offer you a fair amount of money based on what the car is worth. This is one of the things that makes Greenway Auto Recycling a bit different. We do not only quote you a price based on scrap metal, we will also pay you, depending on what works, when it comes to usable parts.