Scrap car prices change weekly based on steel markets and local demand. When a car reaches the end of its life, whether from age, accident, or mounting repair bills, it's easy to assume it's worthless. But every vehicle contains recoverable metal, and understanding scrap value helps you know the minimum you should accept. This page breaks down current scrap car prices, what affects them, and how to calculate what your car is worth.
What Is the Current Scrap Price for Cars?
The current scrap car price ranges from $145 to $195 per ton for complete vehicles, with a national average of $170 per ton. This means most junk cars are worth between $145 and $500 in base scrap value, depending on vehicle weight. "Complete" means the car still has its engine, transmission, catalytic converter, and other major components. Stripped vehicles or "car bodies" (shells) typically pay less—around $100 to $130 per ton.
Scrap car prices vary by location due to differences in local steel demand, proximity to shredding facilities, and regional market conditions. Coastal areas near ports often pay more because scrap metal can be exported, while rural areas may pay less due to higher transportation costs.
Updated January 2026Why the range? A scrap yard in Houston might pay $190/ton while one in rural Montana pays $150/ton. Always get quotes from 2-3 local yards, or use a service like Clunqr that compares buyers automatically.
How Much Are Cars Worth in Scrap?
Based on current prices, most junk cars are worth $200 to $500 in base scrap value, depending on the vehicle's weight. Heavier vehicles like trucks and SUVs are worth more because they contain more recoverable steel.
Here's what different vehicle types are worth at current scrap rates:
| Vehicle Type | Typical Weight | Base Scrap Value |
|---|---|---|
| Compact Car Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla |
2,500 – 3,000 lbs | $180 – $295 |
| Midsize Sedan Honda Accord, Toyota Camry |
3,200 – 3,600 lbs | $230 – $350 |
| Full-Size Sedan Chevy Impala, Ford Taurus |
3,800 – 4,200 lbs | $275 – $410 |
| Compact SUV Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 |
3,400 – 3,800 lbs | $245 – $370 |
| Full-Size SUV Chevy Tahoe, Ford Expedition |
5,500 – 6,000 lbs | $400 – $585 |
| Pickup Truck Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado |
4,500 – 5,500 lbs | $325 – $535 |
| Minivan Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna |
4,300 – 4,800 lbs | $310 – $470 |
* Based on scrap prices of $145–$195 per ton. Actual offers vary by location and vehicle condition.
How are scrap car prices determined?
- Find your vehicle's curb weight. Check the sticker on your door jamb, your owner's manual, or search "[year] [make] [model] curb weight" online.
- Convert pounds to tons. Divide your vehicle's weight by 2,000. For example, a 3,300 lb car = 1.65 tons.
- Multiply by the current scrap price per ton. Use $145–$195 depending on your location. For example: 1.65 tons × $170/ton = $280.
For a quick estimate, use our scrap value calculator to see what your exact car is worth based on its weight and current market rates.
Breakdown of Scrap Car Prices by Component
A car's total scrap value isn't just about steel. Various components have their own value, and some can be sold separately for more than their metal weight. Here's what different parts are worth:
| Component | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Junk Car | $150 – $500+ | Includes all components; value varies by weight and condition |
| Car Body (Shell Only) | $50 – $150 | No engine, trans, or valuable components |
| Catalytic Converter | $50 – $250+ | Varies wildly by type; some worth $500+ |
| Aluminum Wheels (each) | $15 – $45 | Based on weight; typically 15-25 lbs each |
| Car Battery | $5 – $15 | Lead-acid; recycled for lead content |
| Engine/Transmission (Auto Cast) | $0.08 – $0.12/lb | Cast iron/aluminum; 300-600 lbs typical |
| Radiator (Aluminum) | $5 – $20 | Copper/brass radiators worth more ($15-$40) |
| Radiator (Copper/Brass) | $15 – $40 | Older vehicles; higher copper content |
| Alternator | $4 – $10 | Copper windings; 10-15 lbs typical |
| Starter Motor | $3 – $8 | Copper windings; 8-12 lbs typical |
| AC Compressor | $5 – $15 | Aluminum housing with copper |
| Steel Wheels (each) | $1 – $3 | Low value; typically 15-20 lbs each |
| Scrap Wire (per lb) | $1 – $3 | Insulated copper wire from harness |
* Prices reflect current scrap market rates. Catalytic converter values vary significantly based on precious metal content (platinum, palladium, rhodium).
Factors That Impact Scrap Car Value
Not all junk cars are worth the same in scrap. Here are the four main factors that determine what you'll get:
1. Vehicle Weight
Heavier vehicles contain more recoverable ferrous metal (steel and iron), so they're worth more. A 5,000 lb truck is worth roughly twice as much as a 2,500 lb compact car in pure scrap value.
2. Metal Content
Vehicles with more aluminum and copper raise the total value because these metals pay significantly more per pound than steel. Newer cars often have more aluminum components.
3. Vehicle Completeness
Complete vehicles are worth more than stripped ones. "Prepared" vehicles (fluids drained, tires removed) may also get a premium at some yards because they're ready for the shredder.
4. Location
Scrap prices per ton vary by region based on local steel demand, proximity to shredders, and export access. Coastal and industrial areas typically pay more than rural regions.
5. Pricing Method
Some scrap yards pay by weight (per ton), while others offer flat per-vehicle rates based on vehicle class or condition. Weight-based pricing rewards heavier vehicles, while flat-rate yards may pay similar amounts regardless of size. Always ask how they calculate your payout.
Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Many scrap yards price vehicles by weight, but some yards pay a flat per-car amount based on class, completeness, or local demand. Some yards deduct fees for towing, draining fluids, or handling certain vehicles. If you are comparing options, always ask what your net payout will be after towing and fees.
Yes. Scrap car prices are tied to global steel and commodity markets, which fluctuate based on supply and demand, economic conditions, and international trade. Prices can change weekly or even daily. Over the past year, prices have ranged from about $130 to $220 per ton nationally. We update this page monthly to reflect current market conditions.
Scrap value is the base metal value—what your car is worth if crushed and recycled for its steel, aluminum, and copper. Junk value is typically higher because it includes parts value, catalytic converter value, and potential resale value. A car might have a $250 scrap value but a $500 junk car value because its parts are in demand. That's why selling to a junk car buyer often beats going to a pure scrap yard.
Sometimes. Scrap yards work on tight margins, so there's usually limited room to negotiate on the per-ton rate. However, you can improve your offer by: (1) removing valuable components like the catalytic converter and selling them separately, (2) getting quotes from multiple yards, or (3) using a service like Clunqr that makes buyers compete for your car. Competition is more effective than negotiation.
First, understand that scrap value is just the floor. Your car is likely worth more to a dismantler or junk car buyer who values the parts. To maximize your payout: (1) Get quotes from at least 3 local scrap yards, (2) Get a quote from an online buyer like Clunqr who considers parts value, (3) Ask if towing is included—some yards charge $50-$100 for pickup, which eats into your payout, (4) Have your title ready, as cars without titles sometimes get lower offers.
Scrap prices depend on local steel demand, distance to shredding facilities, and export access. Coastal cities near ports (Houston, Los Angeles, Newark) often pay more because scrap can be shipped overseas. Industrial regions with steel mills pay well because of local demand. Rural areas typically pay less because transportation costs are higher. The difference can be $30-$50+ per ton between regions.
It depends on your time and skills. Removing the catalytic converter, battery, and aluminum wheels yourself can net you more money—but it takes effort and some yards won't buy incomplete vehicles. For most people, it's easier to sell the complete car to a junk car buyer who pays for the whole package. If you do strip parts, make sure to sell them separately to scrap yards or parts buyers, not just throw them away.
Your Car Is Probably Worth More Than Scrap Prices
Scrap value is just the floor. Get an instant offer that includes parts value, catalytic converter, and buyer competition.
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