So, your car won’t start. Maybe it’s been sitting in your driveway for months (or even years). The battery is long gone, the tyres are flat, and fixing it feels like a waste of money. Don’t worry—you’re not stuck with it.
Believe it or not, there’s still value in that non-running car. Whether it’s for scrap, parts, or recycling, you can still get a decent price—if you know what you’re doing.
Here’s how to sell a non-running car for the best possible return, without the stress or guesswork.
1. Know What You’re Working With
Before you start ringing around or posting online ads, take a moment to gather the basics about your car. This info will help you get accurate quotes and avoid being lowballed.
Here’s what buyers usually want to know:
- Make, model, and year
- Mileage (if you know it)
- Condition of the body and interior
- What’s wrong with it (if you know)
- If it still has major components like the engine, transmission, battery, etc.
Even if it doesn’t run, a complete car is often worth more than one missing key parts.
2. Don’t Spend on Repairs—It’s Usually Not Worth It
It might be tempting to throw a few hundred dollars into a battery or new tyres to make it “look better.” But when the car has serious mechanical issues, spending more on it doesn’t always mean you’ll get more in return.
Unless you’re 100% sure the repair will significantly boost the resale price (and that a buyer is waiting), save your money. Most buyers for non-running cars want them as-is.
3. Get Multiple Quotes
The key to getting the best price is not jumping on the first offer. Shop around.
Try:
- Local scrap yards
- Car removal companies
- Auto wreckers
- Online car buyers who specialise in damaged or non-running vehicles
You might be surprised by how much offers can vary. One company might quote $200, while another offers $700 for the exact same vehicle—just because they see more value in the parts or scrap metal.
4. Consider Selling It for Parts (If You Have Time)
If you know your way around a spanner—or have a friend who does—you could strip the car down and sell valuable parts individually.
Popular parts that still fetch good money include:
- Catalytic converter
- Engine (even if faulty, it’s worth something)
- Transmission
- Alternator
- Battery (if it’s in decent shape)
- Wheels and tyres
- Lights, mirrors, and bumpers
However, this route takes time, effort, tools, and a safe space to do it. Plus, you’ll still need to dispose of the stripped shell afterward. For most people, selling the whole thing in one go is much easier—and still profitable.
5. Use a Reputable Car Removal Service
If you’re short on time, don’t want to deal with tyre-kickers, or simply want it gone today, a car removal service is your best friend.
A good car removal company will:
- Offer you instant cash (yes, even for non-runners)
- Pick it up for free—no towing fees
- Handle paperwork
- Ensure the car is recycled or dismantled responsibly
Some services in Melbourne (like ours!) even offer up to $9,999 for old or damaged vehicles, depending on condition and parts.
6. Have Your Paperwork Ready
In Victoria, you’ll typically need:
- Proof of ownership (like your driver’s licence and car registration)
- Any paperwork you have showing details about the car
- A signed transfer or disposal form (your removal company can often help with this)
Having everything ready means you can close the deal quickly and avoid delays.
7. Time It Right
Believe it or not, there’s better timing when it comes to selling non-running cars. For example:
- After holidays, when people look for parts for DIY repairs
- During scrap metal price booms
- Before rego expires or council fines hit (if it’s parked in a visible spot)
The sooner you sell, the more you’ll likely get. Letting it sit longer only leads to more wear, more rust, and less value.
Final Word: Don’t Let It Sit and Rot
That old, non-starting car might look useless—but it’s still worth something. Whether it’s for scrap, parts, or salvage, you’ve got options. And with the right strategy, you can turn that hunk of metal into real money, without lifting a wrench.
If you’re ready to move on, call your local car removal service and get that quote. Quick cash, no headaches, and more room in your garage? Sounds like a good deal to us.
If you are in Beaconsfield, and looking for a car removal service, this is the best way to visit us.
28 Station St, Cranbourne VIC 3977