You can sell a junk car if the owner is deceased, but you must have legal authority to do so. The process depends on whether the estate goes through probate and how the vehicle was titled.
How to sell a deceased person’s junk car:
If you are the executor or administrator of the estate: Probate court grants you authority to manage and sell estate assets, including vehicles. You will need letters testamentary or letters of administration from the court, a death certificate, and the vehicle title. Sign the title as executor on behalf of the estate.
If the car was jointly titled with right of survivorship: Ownership passes automatically to the surviving co-owner. The survivor can sell the vehicle with a death certificate and the original title.
If the estate qualifies for simplified probate: Many states offer small estate procedures for assets below a certain value (often $25,000 to $75,000 total). You may be able to transfer the vehicle with a small estate affidavit, death certificate, and title.
If you are not the executor or heir: You have no legal right to sell the vehicle. Only those with court-appointed authority or direct inheritance can transfer ownership.
Documents typically needed to sell a deceased owner’s junk car:
- Original vehicle title
- Certified copy of the death certificate
- Letters testamentary, letters of administration, or small estate affidavit
- Your valid photo ID
Junkyards and buyers who pay cash for junk cars can purchase estate vehicles once you provide proper documentation. Contact your state DMV or a probate attorney for guidance on your specific situation.