You need a title to junk a car because the title is the legal document that proves ownership and allows transfer of the vehicle to a new owner.
Reasons junkyards, scrap yards, and salvage buyers require titles:
Legal protection: Buying a vehicle without a title creates legal risk for the buyer. If the car turns out to be stolen, financed, or owned by someone else, the buyer faces liability. Titles verify the seller has the legal right to sell.
State law compliance: Most states require titles for vehicle sales, including junk and scrap transactions. Junkyards must report purchased vehicles to state authorities, and a title is needed to complete this process.
Theft prevention: Title requirements help prevent stolen vehicles from being scrapped or sold for parts. Law enforcement uses title records to track vehicle ownership and identify stolen property.
Lien verification: The title shows whether a lender holds a lien on the vehicle. Cars with outstanding loans cannot be legally sold without the lienholder’s release.
Some states allow junk vehicle sales with alternative documents (registration, bill of sale, or affidavit of ownership) for low-value cars. However, most buyers prefer a clear title to avoid complications. If you have lost your title, apply for a duplicate through your state DMV before selling to cash for junk cars buyers.