Best Place To Sell A Non Running Car: Scrap Yard, Breaker Or Private Sale?
If you’ve got a car sitting on your drive that won’t start, has failed its MOT, or simply isn’t worth repairing, you’re probably asking the same question thousands of other motorists ask every month:
What’s the best place to sell a non running car?
The answer depends on the condition of the vehicle, how quickly you want rid of it, and how much money you’re hoping to get for it.
Some non-runners are only worth scrap value. Others still contain valuable parts that can make them worth more than you might expect.
In this guide, we’ll look at the most common ways to sell a non running car, including private sales, online car buying services, scrap yards and vehicle breakers.
Selling A Non Running Car Privately
Many people start by listing their vehicle on Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree or Auto Trader.
If the vehicle is rare, desirable, or only has a minor fault, selling privately can sometimes get you the highest price. A buyer might want it as a project, for spares, or because they know how to repair it cheaply.
However, selling a non-running car privately can also be frustrating.
You’ll often have to deal with messages, viewings, negotiations, no-shows and people asking endless questions. If the vehicle doesn’t start, collection can become another obstacle that puts buyers off.
Pros Of Selling Privately
- Potentially higher selling price
- Suitable for rare or desirable vehicles
- Good option for cars with minor faults
Cons Of Selling Privately
- Can take weeks or months to sell
- Time-wasters are common
- Buyers often expect large discounts
- Collection arrangements can be difficult
Selling To An Online Car Buying Service
Online car buying companies can offer a quick and simple solution for vehicles that still run and drive.
You’ll enter your registration number, receive an estimated valuation and arrange an appointment.
The issue is that many online buying companies aren’t particularly interested in non-runners. Vehicles with engine failure, gearbox problems, accident damage or no MOT often receive much lower offers once inspected.
For some vehicles this may still be a suitable option, but it’s worth comparing quotes before making a decision.
Selling To A Scrap Yard
Traditional scrap yards typically value a vehicle based largely on its weight and the current price of scrap metal.
If a vehicle is heavily damaged, stripped of parts, or has very little demand in the used parts market, scrapping it may make sense.
However, many non-running vehicles still contain valuable reusable components.
Engines, gearboxes, catalytic converters, alloy wheels, body panels, electrical components and interior parts can all influence the value of a vehicle.
This is why some vehicles are worth considerably more than their scrap metal value alone.
If your vehicle is at the end of its life, you can learn more about our scrap car collection service.
Selling To A Vehicle Breaker
For many people, selling to a vehicle breaker offers the best balance between convenience and value.
Rather than simply weighing the vehicle in, a breaker assesses the vehicle as a whole.
The make, model, mileage, condition and demand for parts are all taken into account.
A vehicle with a failed engine may still have a good gearbox, valuable alloy wheels, straight body panels, working lights and dozens of other reusable components.
That’s why two cars that look similar can receive very different valuations.
At Allstar Breakers, we assess every vehicle individually and provide straightforward quotes for non-runners throughout Preston and the North West.
You can find out more about our Sell Non Running Car service here.
What Is The Best Place To Sell A Non Running Car?
The best option depends entirely on the vehicle.
If it’s a rare model or only has a minor fault, selling privately may achieve the highest price.
If it still runs and drives, an online buying service may be convenient.
If it’s heavily damaged or only worth scrap value, a scrap yard may be the simplest route.
However, if the vehicle isn’t worth repairing but still contains valuable parts, a vehicle breaker is often the better option.
Many non-running vehicles still contain parts that other motorists need, helping increase the value beyond simple scrap weight.
Can You Sell A Non Running Car Without An MOT?
Yes.
You can sell a non running car without an MOT certificate.
Many vehicles are sold because they’ve failed an MOT and the repair costs outweigh the value of the vehicle.
You do not need to repair the car before selling it, and you do not need to get it running first.
Vehicles with no MOT, engine problems, gearbox issues, accident damage or electrical faults can still be sold.
How Much Is A Non Running Car Worth?
There isn’t a single answer because every vehicle is different.
The value can depend on:
- Make and model
- Age and mileage
- Condition of the engine and gearbox
- Demand for parts
- Current scrap metal prices
- Whether the catalytic converter is still fitted
- Condition of the wheels, panels and interior
- Location and collection requirements
If you’re unsure what your vehicle is worth, the easiest option is to request a quote.
Looking To Sell A Non Running Car?
If your car won’t start, has failed its MOT, suffered mechanical failure or simply isn’t worth repairing anymore, we can help.
Send us your registration number and postcode and we’ll provide a straightforward quote.
There could be more cash sitting on your drive than you think.