How Much Is My Junk Car Worth?

There's no single sticker price for a junk car. The value comes down to a handful of real factors, and the only way to know for sure is a quote on your specific vehicle. But understanding what drives the number helps you recognize a fair offer when you see one.

Scrap metal prices. A junk car is partly valued as scrap steel and aluminum, so offers rise and fall with the metal market.

Weight and size. Heavier vehicles like trucks and SUVs contain more recoverable metal, so they usually fetch more than a small sedan.

Resaleable parts. A car with a working engine or transmission, a catalytic converter, good tires, or in-demand parts is worth more than a stripped shell.

Condition and completeness. A complete car — even one that doesn't run — beats one missing major components. Heavy flood or fire damage lowers the value.

Location. Distance to the buyer or recycler and local demand affect both the offer and the towing.

Make and model demand. Some models have parts that buyers actively want, which can lift the offer.

To get an accurate number, have the year, make, model, condition, and whether it runs ready — and don't strip valuable parts or scrap the car before you get a quote, since intact parts and a title in order can lift the offer. A reputable buyer gives a no-obligation quote — and the price quoted should be the cash you actually collect, with free towing and no surprise deductions when the driver arrives. Want your number? Get a fast, free quote — running or not.