What sets the price
- Weight
- At the end of the line, a car is sold by weight. Heavier trucks and SUVs carry more metal.
- Scrap prices
- Steel prices move week to week, so the same car can be worth more or less depending on timing.
- Catalytic converter
- Often the most valuable single part, because of the precious metals inside. A missing converter is one of the most common reasons an offer drops.
- Resaleable parts
- Engines, transmissions, body panels and electronics from popular models have a resale market.
- Runs or not
- A running car can sometimes be resold whole, which is worth more than parts.
- Location
- Distance to yards and buyers affects what a tow and resale cost.
We don’t publish “average” junk car prices because they go stale fast and vary by region. The only number that matters is a real offer for your car.
Comparing offers
Compare the net amount: what you’ll actually hold after any towing or admin fees. An offer with free towing can beat a higher number with a tow charge.
Questions
Should I remove parts before junking it?
Usually not worth it, and if you’ve already described the car as complete, removing parts will lower the offer at pickup.
Sources
- Scrap price factors (industry overview): www.cashautosalvage.com/scrap-prices/
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with your state DMV before you sign.