To sell your junk car, you typically need: 1) Vehicle title (or proof of ownership if title is lost), 2) Valid photo ID matching the name on the title, and 3) Keys (if available). Some states also require current registration or a lien release.
No title? Many buyers, including Clunqr, can still purchase your vehicle using alternative documentation.
Getting cash for junk cars is straightforward when you're prepared. This guide covers everything you need to know before scheduling pickup.
What You Need to Sell Your Junk Car
| Document/Item | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Title | Usually | Proves ownership; alternatives available if lost |
| Valid Photo ID | Yes | Must match name on title |
| Keys | Preferred | Not required, but may increase offer |
| Registration | Some states | Helps verify ownership |
| Lien Release | If applicable | Required if there's a loan on the vehicle |
Detailed Requirements Breakdown
Vehicle Title
The title is your proof of ownership. You'll need to sign it over to the buyer.
- Don't sign until buyer is present
- Use blue or black ink only
- No white out (voids the title)
Valid Photo ID
Your ID verifies you're the legal owner. Accepted forms:
- Driver's license
- State issued ID card
- Passport
- Military ID
Keys
Having keys makes the process easier and can increase your offer. But we buy cars without keys every day.
Registration
Some states require current or recent registration. Even expired registration helps verify ownership.
What If I Do Not Have The Vehicle's Title??
You can often get cash for junk cars with no title, but you will need to verify ownership in another way.
How to Prepare Your Car for Pickup
Before Scheduling Pickup
Before Pickup Day
What to Remove From Your Car
Once your car is towed away, anything left inside is gone forever. Check these spots:
🚗 Inside the Car
- Glove compartment
- Center console
- Door pockets
- Under seats
- Sun visor (garage openers, toll tags)
📦 Trunk & Cargo
- Spare tire (if you want it)
- Tools and jack
- Emergency kit
- Jumper cables
🔧 Aftermarket Parts
- Custom stereo/speakers
- GPS devices
- Dash cams
- Phone mounts
⚠️ Don't Forget
- License plates
- Toll transponders
- Parking permits
- House/office keys
- Child car seats
Should You Remove Aftermarket Parts?
| Part | Remove? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Expensive stereo | Yes | Easy to remove, retains value |
| Custom wheels | Maybe | If worth $500+, consider selling separately |
| New battery | Maybe | If recently purchased, easy to sell locally |
| Catalytic converter | No | Illegal to sell separately; lowers your offer |
| Engine/transmission | No | Major components affect your offer |
What to Expect on Pickup Day
Driver Arrives
Our driver arrives during your scheduled window and calls when on the way.
Quick Vehicle Inspection
The driver verifies the vehicle matches your description. Takes about 5 minutes.
Sign Paperwork
You sign over the title and required documents. The driver handles the rest.
Get Paid Cash
You receive your cash payment on the spot; the exact amount quoted.
Vehicle Towed Away
The driver loads your car and you're done. Total time: 15-30 minutes.
What Clunqr Handles for You
We make selling your junk car as easy as possible:
Included in every offer; no cost to you.
We walk you through signing correctly.
We notify the DMV so you're not liable.
Running, not running, damaged; we take it all.
Ready to Sell Your Junk Car?
Now that you know what you need, get your instant cash offer in 90 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in most states. We can often purchase vehicles using alternative documentation like registration and ID. Requirements vary by state: contact us to find out what's needed in your area.
Yes, the registered owner must be present to sign over the title and receive payment. You'll need valid ID matching the name on the title.
In most states, yes. Remove plates before pickup and return them to your local DMV. Some states require this to cancel registration and avoid future liability.
No problem, we buy non-running vehicles every day. Our tow trucks can load cars that don't start. Just make sure the vehicle is accessible.