To sell a broken down car, contact buyers who purchase non-running vehicles, such as junkyards, salvage yards, scrap yards, or online junk car buyers.
Steps to sell a car that broke down:
- Gather your paperwork: Locate the title, registration, and your ID. Having the title ready speeds up the sale and increases your offer.
- Know what is wrong: Identify the problem (dead engine, failed transmission, electrical issues). Buyers will ask about the car’s condition.
- Get multiple quotes: Contact three to five buyers and provide the year, make, model, and description of the breakdown. Compare offers.
- Confirm free towing: Most junk car buyers include free pickup for non-running vehicles. Verify towing is included before accepting an offer.
- Schedule pickup: Choose a buyer, set a pickup time, and have your paperwork ready to sign.
Where to sell a broken down vehicle:
- Junk car buyers: Purchase vehicles in any condition, running or not. Most offer same-day quotes and fast pickup.
- Junkyards and salvage yards: Buy broken cars for parts. Higher offers for popular makes and models.
- Scrap yards: Pay based on metal weight. Best for vehicles with no parts value.
- Private buyers: Mechanics or hobbyists sometimes buy broken cars for projects, but finding a buyer takes longer.
A broken down car still has value in its parts, metal, and components. Even vehicles that will not start or move can be sold for cash to buyers who purchase junk cars in any condition.