We’re all aware of the benefits of cars and how they improve our quality of life. However, when a car won’t run and can’t be fixed, the best option is to get rid of it.
In that situation, you may ask yourself questions like:
Can you sell your old clunkers for cash?
Do people actually purchase old, non-running cars?
How to get rid of a car that doesn’t run?
Fortunately for you, there are numerous businesses out there that will pay you to dispose of your car. Moreover, some even offer free towing and transportation to and from almost anywhere.
What Are Your Options for Getting Rid of a Car That Doesn’t Run?
It’s not worth it to fix your car if the cost is greater than the current market value of your car. It’s very likely that the quotes you get for the car don't even come close to covering what you paid to have it fixed. And if it's an outdated car model, it's even worse.
If you want to know how to get rid of a car that doesn’t run while still making some money, these are the best options.
Junkyards
Nearby junkyards will gladly purchase your car in any condition.
To get started, search online for scrap yards that buy non-running cars or conduct a local search for junk car buyers. Give the most accurate description of your junk car's condition, get an online quote, and sell your junk car at a fair price.
Junker car removal services
Providers of car junk removal services are likely your best bet if you want your junk car gone right away. But make sure to choose this option only if you are 100% sure that it’s not worth fixing and flipping your car.
You’ll most likely have to pay for this service. If you don't mind spending a little money to get rid of a junk automobile, search online for local companies that offer junk car removal services.
Parts can sell well
If you look more closely, a trash car may not be entirely useless. You might still find some parts in your old, junky car that are in good shape and will last for many years.
Find any parts in your trash car that might still be functional for a while and sell them to local customers or online purchasers. Don't miss the chance to earn some cash because there is a huge market for used car parts.
Scrap it yourself
Giving your car to auto recycling services is the best option if you don't have the time to repair it or find new operating parts. The workers at car recycling companies are professionals and they will know what they need to do when removing the metal from your automobile.
Reputable recycling companies will visit your house, remove your junk car, and pay you cash as well.
What’s the Best Way to Get Rid of Junk Cars?
The easiest approach to get rid of a used car is probably to hire a junk removal service. Seek out local companies that pay cash for junk cars. No matter how damaged your car is, there are companies that will buy it for cash.
You may sell junk cars or trucks, corroded ones, and even non-functional vehicles. Get a quotation on your dilapidated car, and if you accept it, they'll come to pick up the vehicle.
By far, this is the easiest way to get rid of a car and still earn some money. Any other option will require you to either invest your time or money into getting rid of your car.
How to Get Rid of Your Non-Running Car for Money
If you decide that you want to get rid of your car but still want to make money, you need to take a more difficult path. Getting some money for your old car that is in a poor condition is a lot more difficult than just getting rid of it for no money. Still, it’s not impossible.
First, have a mechanic evaluate it
Make sure your vehicle is inspected by a professional. Your mechanic can assess the value of your car and its parts once the inspection is complete. In addition, they may tell you that your car is worth more now than you would receive if you sold it as junk.
With this knowledge, you'll have a clearer idea of how to advertise your car and what kind of return you might anticipate from purchasers. Regardless of when you plan to sell your car, evaluating it in its current condition will help you determine its worth.
Repair and flip it
Consider all of the folks who are passionate about driving classic automobiles. Some people feel a stronger connection to their past selves when they are behind the wheel of an older vehicle. At the same time, younger men prefer to drive classic cars as a way to demonstrate their taste and connection to the generation that came before them.
If you’re wondering what to do with totaled car models, you can turn your car into a moneymaker by giving it a facelift.
Locate a car repair business in your area that can make your car run again. Then seek the services of a junk car buyer or sell it off to those who are interested in driving old cars. It's a win-win situation for both you and fans of classic (or simply old) automobiles.
Don’t forget that many car dealers make a living out of flipping old cars for profit. If you can do that with your junk car and still make a profit, why shouldn’t you?
Trading your car in
The most typical method of getting rid of an old car is to trade it in. If you've paid off your vehicle, trading it in when you purchase a new vehicle can lower the financial strain.
Before you visit the dealership, find out how much the make and model of your automobile are worth. This will help you get the best trade-in value. Otherwise, it's possible that you won't get value for your money from your car.
Find a private buyer
On Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Autotrader, eBay Motors, and automotive discussion groups, you might come across some potential purchasers who are interested. The majority of these customers might be considering renovating the car or using it in a junk car race.
Needless to say, before selling the car, make sure you give it a proper inspection.
Auction it off
People can acquire and sell their belongings in a more enjoyable environment thanks to auction houses. The same applies to car enthusiasts. A person who is passionate about automobiles can think that a junk car is more than valuable.
Therefore, it would be a mistake to pass up the opportunity to sell your vehicle at a public auction and test your luck there. If you first repair it and clean it, and then manage to sell it at an auction, you will probably make decent money.
Can I Donate a Car That Doesn’t Run?
Of course, you can. However, you will have to do some research and find an organization in your area that serves as a car donations goodwill.
They will pick up your car for free, you will enjoy a tax write-off and every cent made from your car will go to the cause of that organization. Not only will you be able to free yourself from the weight of an inoperable vehicle when you donate it, but you'll also be eligible for a tax deduction after the process is finished. Therefore, successfully donating a car is a win-win situation.
After a charity has accepted your donation of a vehicle, the organization will sell it at an auction, where a car's value can be determined regardless of whether or not it is driveable.
Potential buyers might be interested in purchasing the vehicle so that they can remove elements from it, such as doors, dashboards, or even gear knobs, and then resell them as replacement components.
Before you schedule a pickup, you should describe or provide images of the vehicle's condition to the charity if you are concerned about whether or not it will still be accepted. It’s best to send photos of the vehicle. If a charity informs you that it won’t take your car as a contribution, it may be worthwhile to call another charity and see if they’re willing to do it.
The Bottom Line
When deciding what to do with a totaled car or an old car, you have a lot of options. If you're unsure what option to choose, think about how much money you can realistically earn.
This is crucial when deciding how to get rid of an old car that doesn't run. As your last option, it’s always easier to give it away for free than to sell it or pull it apart for parts.