Whether it is better to scrap or sell a car depends on the vehicle’s condition, age, and demand for its parts.
| Factor | Scrap the Car | Sell the Car |
|---|---|---|
| Condition | Totaled, severe damage, non-running | Runs, minor issues, repairable |
| Age | 15+ years, high mileage | Under 15 years, moderate mileage |
| Title status | Salvage or junk title | Clean title |
| Buyer type | Scrap yards, metal recyclers | Private buyers, dealerships, online buyers |
| Payout basis | Weight and scrap metal prices | Market value, parts demand |
Scrapping pays based on the vehicle’s weight and current metal prices (steel, aluminum, copper). Selling pays based on the car’s resale or parts value. If your vehicle has a bad engine, blown transmission, or frame damage, scrapping is often the better option. If the car runs or has in-demand parts, selling to a buyer or parting it out may pay more.
To find out what your vehicle is worth as scrap, check current scrap car prices in your area.