Quick answer: Most junk cars sell for $200–$1,500, and a typical sedan brings about $300–$600. The price depends mostly on the car’s weight and local scrap steel prices, plus extra value for usable parts, the catalytic converter and whether the car still runs.
Typical junk car prices
Typical offers, October 2026. Prices vary by region and change with scrap metal markets.
| Vehicle | Approximate weight | Typical junk offer |
|---|---|---|
| Compact car | 2,500 – 3,000 lb | $200 – $500 |
| Midsize sedan | 3,000 – 3,500 lb | $250 – $600 |
| Minivan or midsize SUV | 4,000 – 4,500 lb | $350 – $800 |
| Full-size pickup or SUV | 4,500 – 5,500 lb | $400 – $1,200 |
| Running car with sellable parts | Any | $500 – $2,500+ |
What determines your junk car’s value
- Weight and scrap prices: scrap yards pay by the ton, and prices for scrap cars commonly range from roughly $120–$200 per ton in 2026, depending on the market and region.
- Catalytic converter: contains precious metals and can add $50 to several hundred dollars. Hybrid converters are often worth more. Buyers lower their offer if it’s missing.
- Parts demand: popular models (Toyota, Honda, Ford trucks) have parts that sell well, so buyers pay more.
- Condition: a car that runs, or has a good transmission, body panels, wheels and tires, is worth more than a burned or stripped one.
- Title: a clean title in your name gets the best offers.
- Towing: most buyers tow for free, but some subtract a fee.
Junk it, sell it or fix it?
Before junking, check whether the car is worth more as a used car. A car with one big problem (such as a bad transmission or engine) can still be worth far more than scrap to the right buyer. See How to Sell a Car With a Blown Engine and run your numbers in the Repair or Replace Calculator.
How to get the most money for a junk car
- Get three or more quotes: local scrapyards, national junk car buyers and online instant-offer sites.
- Ask whether the offer is guaranteed or can drop at pickup.
- Confirm free towing and payment method (cash or check on pickup).
- Remove personal items, toll tags and license plates (if your state requires it).
- If you have the skills, some parts (new tires, battery, aftermarket stereo) can be sold separately, but don’t remove anything the buyer expects.
Paperwork
- Sign the title over to the buyer and keep a copy or photo.
- Get a written receipt or bill of sale.
- Cancel insurance and registration, and file a notice of transfer or release of liability with your state DMV if required.
Donating instead
Charities accept car donations and arrange towing. If the charity sells the car for less than $500, you can generally deduct its fair market value up to $500 if you itemize; above that, your deduction is usually limited to what the charity sells it for. See the IRS guide to vehicle donations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I junk a car without a title?
Some states allow licensed scrapyards to buy older vehicles without a title, with other proof of ownership. Check your state’s rules.
How fast can I get paid?
Many junk car buyers pick up the car within 24–48 hours and pay on the spot.
Sources
- IRS Publication 4303: A Donor’s Guide to Vehicle Donation
- Scrap price ranges based on published 2026 prices from U.S. scrap car buyers.