Dealerships do buy junk cars in some cases, but most prefer vehicles they can resell or send to auction.
When dealerships buy junk cars:
- As trade-ins toward a new or used vehicle purchase
- When running promotions with minimum trade-in values
- If the car has enough value to wholesale or auction
When dealerships do not buy junk cars:
- If you want cash without buying another vehicle
- If the car is severely damaged, non-running, or missing major components
- If the vehicle has a junk certificate or certificate of destruction
Dealership trade-in offers on junk cars are often lower than what junkyards, scrap yards, or online buyers pay. Dealers factor in auction fees, transport costs, and profit margins.
If you are buying a new car, a dealership trade-in is convenient. If you want the most cash for a junk vehicle, sell your junk car for cash to a junkyard or junk car buyer instead.