How Much Is a Whole Car Worth in Scrap?

In 2025, a whole car sold strictly for scrap is typically worth about $150–$700 in the United States, with heavier SUVs and trucks often fetching $300–$1,200 if they’re complete and have their catalytic converters. Actual offers depend on weight, local metal prices, whether the car is complete, towing distance, and documentation. Here’s how to estimate your number and what shapes the price.

What Determines Scrap Value

Several tangible factors drive the number you’ll hear from a scrapyard or auto recycler. The following list breaks down the main variables and why they matter to your final payout.

• Vehicle weight and metal mix: Scrap cars are largely valued by weight, dominated by ferrous (steel/iron) with smaller amounts of non‑ferrous metals (aluminum, copper). Heavier vehicles bring more.
• Completeness: Cars that are “as is” and intact pay more. Missing wheels, battery, radiator, or catalytic converter can sharply reduce value.
• Catalytic converter: Often the single most valuable component. OEM converters, especially from hybrids and certain models, can add hundreds of dollars; aftermarket units are worth far less.
• Non‑ferrous extras: Aluminum wheels, copper wiring, and radiators add value. If they’re missing, you’ll lose that upside.
• Title and paperwork: A clear title generally increases offers and makes pickup faster. Without a title, some buyers pay less or won’t buy, depending on state/provincial rules.
• Towing and distance: Free towing is common within a radius; beyond that, fees or reduced offers are typical. Driving the vehicle in can boost payment.
• Local market and timing: Scrap steel and converter markets fluctuate. Regional demand, fuel costs, and yard capacity influence daily quotes.
• Vehicle type and age: Trucks and large SUVs weigh more and usually pay more. EVs have no catalytic converter and may require special handling for high‑voltage batteries, which can reduce offers.

These factors stack: a complete, heavier vehicle located near a buyer and sold during a strong metal market will produce a meaningfully higher offer than a stripped shell that needs long‑distance towing.

Typical Payout Ranges by Region (2025)

Because scrap pricing is hyperlocal and changes with commodity markets, ranges vary by country and even by city. The list below summarizes what sellers commonly see in 2025.

• United States: $150–$700 for typical passenger cars; $300–$1,200 for larger, complete SUVs/trucks. Thin, stripped, or no‑title cars may net under $150.
• United Kingdom: £120–£450 for typical cars; heavier 4x4s/vans can reach £500–£700 depending on weight and converter. London/SE often pays more than rural areas.
• Canada: C$200–C$800 for most cars; C$400–C$1,200 for larger vehicles in strong markets. Remote areas may see lower net due to transport.
• Australia: A$150–A$600 for typical cars; larger utes/SUVs can do better where metal demand is high. Offers vary notably by city.

Expect quotes outside these ranges for unusual cases (e.g., very heavy commercial vehicles, intact hybrid converters, or vehicles missing key components).

Quick Math: Estimate Your Car’s Scrap Value

You can get a ballpark number with a simple weight-based approach, then adjust for key parts and logistics. Follow the steps below to estimate before you call around.

1. Find curb weight: Look up your model’s curb weight on the door jamb sticker, owner’s manual, or a reputable online spec sheet.
2. Convert to short tons (US): Divide pounds by 2,000. Example: 3,300 lb ≈ 1.65 tons.
3. Ask your local yard what they pay per ton for “complete cars” today: Many public-facing yards effectively pay a per-ton rate for intact vehicles; the per-ton payout can vary widely by region and week.
4. Multiply weight by the per-ton payout: That’s your base number for a complete car.
5. Adjust up or down:
   – Add for valuable items still attached (OEM catalytic converter, aluminum wheels, battery).
   – Subtract if parts are missing, tires are shredded, or if the yard charges for towing beyond a free radius.
6. Get at least three quotes: Provide VIN, trim, condition, and confirm whether your quote is “all-in” with towing, title transfer, and no surprise fees.

This method won’t capture every nuance, but it gets you close and helps you negotiate consistently among buyers.

Example Estimates

Here are illustrative scenarios using common weights and typical 2025 market conditions. Your local offers may differ.

• Compact sedan (~2,800 lb / 1.4 tons): If a yard is effectively paying around $120 per ton for complete cars, base ≈ $168. Add $50–$200 if the OEM catalytic converter and aluminum wheels are present; deduct towing if applicable.
• Midsize car (~3,300 lb / 1.65 tons): Base ≈ $198 at $120/ton. With intact converter and battery, many quotes land $250–$450 depending on region.
• Full-size SUV (~5,500 lb / 2.75 tons): Base ≈ $330 at $120/ton. Complete, with OEM converter(s), typical offers range $450–$900+, sometimes more in strong markets.
• Hybrid: Similar weight to a midsize or SUV but often higher converter value if OEM and intact; some hybrids can add several hundred dollars for the cat alone. If the converter is missing, expect a sharp reduction.
• EV: No catalytic converter. Heavier curb weights help, but high-voltage battery removal/handling may reduce offers; some buyers deduct for battery logistics.

Think of these as directional guardrails. The specific per-ton rate and converter situation are the biggest swing factors.

Catalytic Converters: The Wild Card

Catalytic converters can add substantial value, but payouts have softened compared with 2022 peaks as precious metal prices (especially palladium) have cooled. The list below highlights what affects converter value and what to watch for.

• OEM vs. aftermarket: OEM converters are generally worth much more; aftermarket units often have minimal value.
• Model matters: Certain Toyota, Honda, and hybrid converters are historically high value; SUVs and trucks may have multiple units.
• Current metals: Platinum, palladium, and rhodium prices shift; converter offers change accordingly.
• Legality and documentation: Many regions require proof of ownership and strict recordkeeping; reputable buyers comply and may pay better.
• Condition and identification: Intact, uncut, and traceable converters bring stronger offers than unknown or damaged units.

When you call for quotes, explicitly confirm whether the offer assumes the OEM converter is attached. If it’s missing, ask how much that reduces the price.

How to Maximize Your Offer

Solid preparation and savvy shopping can add real money to your scrap quote. Use the tips below to improve your outcome.

• Call multiple buyers: Compare local yards, mobile junk car buyers, and scrapyards that own shredders. Competition raises offers.
• Ask the right questions: “What’s your per-ton rate for complete cars today?” “Is towing included?” “Does that price assume the OEM catalytic converter is present?”
• Provide clear info: VIN, mileage, trim, title status, completeness, and photos. The fewer unknowns, the fewer “upon arrival” discounts.
• Deliver if feasible: Driving or towing it yourself can boost the payout if the yard deducts for pickup.
• Bring the title: Where required, a clean title speeds payment and can increase the offer.
• Time the market if you can: If local metal prices are trending up, waiting a week or two sometimes helps; if dropping, act sooner.
• Avoid parting out randomly: Removing wheels, battery, radiator, or converter often reduces net more than you’ll gain unless you sell those parts profitably yourself.

Small steps—like confirming all-in pricing and arriving with the right documents—can easily swing your payout by $50–$200 or more.

Red Flags and Consumer Protections

Most buyers are legitimate, but a few tactics can cost you money or create headaches. Here’s what to look out for and how to protect yourself.

• Bait-and-switch: Quote rises or falls drastically at pickup for vague reasons. Prevent this by providing photos, confirming completeness, and insisting on a written, all-in quote.
• Weight disputes: If paid by weight, ask to see scale tickets or choose a buyer who pays by the car with a firm figure upfront.
• “Up to” pricing: Ads touting “up to $1,500” commonly pay far less. Verify your exact offer before scheduling pickup.
• Title transfer: Ensure the yard properly completes paperwork and notifies the DMV/authority; keep a copy. This avoids future tolls or fines in your name.
• Liens and loans: Clear any liens first; most buyers won’t pay until the lien is released.
• Data and plates: Remove plates and personal items; clear garage door remotes and erase stored addresses from infotainment.

Transparent terms and clean paperwork protect your payout and prevent post-sale issues.

Frequently Asked Details

Below are concise answers to common logistics and policy questions that can impact your scrap sale.

• Do you need a title? Often yes in the U.S. and many other regions; some states allow no-title older vehicles with extra paperwork. Expect lower offers without a title.
• Are there fees? Many buyers include towing within a radius; beyond that, a fee or reduced payout is common. Ask for an all-in number.
• Can it be worth more than scrap? If it runs or is repairable, a “junk car” or parts buyer may pay more than pure scrap value.
• Payment method: Cash is common in some areas; others require check or electronic payment. Verify local rules and the buyer’s policy.
• Environmental rules: Yards must drain fluids and handle batteries properly. Reputable facilities follow regulations; this can influence their costs and your offer.

Clarifying these details upfront avoids surprises and makes it easier to compare multiple offers fairly.

Summary

Most whole cars scrapped in 2025 fetch around $150–$700 in the U.S., with heavier, complete SUVs and trucks often earning $300–$1,200. Your exact price hinges on weight, completeness (especially the catalytic converter), local metal markets, towing, and paperwork. Use your vehicle’s curb weight and a current per‑ton rate from local yards to get a quick estimate, then shop at least three all-in quotes. Keeping the car complete, having the title, and confirming whether the OEM converter is included are the fastest ways to maximize your offer.

How much is a car worth for scrap?

Metal Content
Steel, aluminum, and copper are commonly found in cars and have varying market prices. For example, as of March 2025, scrap car prices range from $140 to $190 per ton, with complete vehicles typically selling for $175 to $665 in scrap, depending on weight, metal content, and location .

How to get the most money from scrapping a car?

To maximize money from scrapping a car, sell valuable parts like the catalytic converter, battery, tires, engine, and transmission individually before scrapping the rest. Get multiple quotes from different recyclers to negotiate a better price and ask for free towing. Also, ensure to remove all personal items, license plates, and scrap the car legally, removing fluids before disposal. 
Before You Sell 

1. Remove your personal items: Always take personal belongings, license plates, and any valuable accessories like the stereo or custom wheels.
2. Remove fluids: Drain the vehicle’s fluids, such as gasoline, oil, and coolant, to avoid environmental issues and potential fines.
3. Remove license plates: This is crucial to cancel the vehicle’s registration and ensure you’re not held responsible for future incidents involving the car.
4. Cancel insurance: Inform your insurance company to cancel your policy on the vehicle.

Maximize Your Scrap Value

1. Sell high-value parts first: Catalytic converters are valuable due to the precious metals they contain, while batteries, tires, engines, and transmissions also hold significant value. 
2. Sell to mechanics or auto part stores: Reach out to local repair shops, auto part stores, or mechanics who might be interested in buying functional parts directly from you. 
3. Disassemble and sell metals separately: Scrapyards pay more for non-ferrous metals like copper, aluminum, and brass than for mixed metals. Separating and cleaning these metals can increase your payout. 
4. Get multiple quotes: Contact several different junkyards and recyclers. Use these quotes to negotiate a better price, as some may offer free towing to sweeten the deal. 

The Final Steps 

1. Negotiate confidently: Use the knowledge of your car’s value and the quotes you’ve gathered to negotiate a better price.
2. Prioritize safety: Always insist on secure payment and be aware of potential scams.
3. Understand local regulations: Research local laws for scrapping cars to ensure you are handling the process legally and responsibly.

What is the most valuable scrap on a car?

Catalytic converters are some of the most valuable scrap car parts because they contain rare metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Because of these metals, they can be worth hundreds of dollars, even if they’re old.

Is it better to scrap or sell a car?

It’s better to sell a car if it’s in decent running condition, as you’ll likely get more money, but it requires more time and effort dealing with buyers and negotiations. You should scrap a car if it’s a complete wreck, not worth the repair costs, or you need quick cash with minimal hassle. 
Choose to Sell When:

• Your car is in good working condition: A drivable car in demand has a much higher resale value than scrap metal. 
• You have time for the process: Selling requires advertising, scheduling viewings, test drives, and handling paperwork. 
• You want to maximize profit: Selling privately or to a dealer can yield more money than selling it for scrap. 

Choose to Scap When:

• Your car is undrivable or a total wreck: If the car is beyond repair or not worth the cost of fixing, scrapping is a practical solution. 
• You need quick cash: Scrapping provides a fast, no-hassle way to get paid, often with same-day service and payment. 
• You want convenience: Scrapping eliminates the need for repairs, advertising, or dealing with potential buyers and scammers. 
• You’re relieved of maintenance costs: You’re no longer responsible for recurring expenses like insurance, servicing, or repairs. 

Consider Selling Parts Individually: 

• For a “dead” car, selling certain parts like airbags, rims, or tires individually on platforms like eBay Quora can be more profitable than scrapping the entire vehicle.

Factors to Consider:

• Car’s Condition: This is the most critical factor. A drivable car sells for more; a non-drivable one is better for scrapping. 
• Repair Costs: If the cost of repairs outweighs the car’s value, selling it as-is for parts or scrapping may be more financially sound. 
• Market Demand: The value of your car, whether for sale or scrap, depends on factors like its make, model, and the current price of scrap metal. 
• Urgency and Convenience: If you need cash quickly or don’t have the time for the selling process, scrapping is the better choice.