A non-functioning car can be more than a nuisance. It’s an eyesore, a storage hog, and even potentially hazardous. Not to mention the headache of dealing with repairs or disposing of it responsibly. The question now arises, what can you do with a car that won’t start?
Before kicking that non-functioning car to the curb, weigh your possibilities. You can go over various options, such as selling your car for parts, donating it, junking it, trading it in, or selling it “as-is.”
Here, we’ll discuss each option extensively so you can make an informed choice. Aside from that, evaluating your car’s value depends on its condition and features. Let’s find out what makes it worth more.
How to Get Rid Of a Car That Doesn’t Run: 6 Ways
There are several ways to eliminate an old car and free up some much-needed space in your driveway or garage. Here are six different methods for getting rid of a non-running car so that you can make the best choice for your particular situation.
Number 01: Sell the Car for Parts
Selling an old car for parts can be a lucrative way of getting rid of it, depending on the condition and age of the vehicle. To obtain the maximum value, one should research the prices of salvageable parts such as engines, batteries, doors, wheels, and windows.
Also, it is essential to ensure every piece of paperwork is signed before disposing off any part of the car. Doing so may allow one to gain considerable profit from the endeavor.
Number 02: Donate the Car
Donating a vehicle can provide various benefits, including tax deductions and much-needed support to charitable organizations or those in need. Depending on where you live, several organizations or charities may accept car donations in non-running conditions.
Before donating your non-running vehicle, one must verify its eligibility with the charitable organization to receive any tax deductions or other benefits associated with your donation.
Aside from that, most states require title transfers and other paperwork before a charity or organization can accept a car donation, so check with them before donating your vehicle.
Number 03: Junk the Car
Junking an old car is another potential way of getting rid of it when it no longer runs reliably or safely. Some places will pay people for their old cars. This is called a “junkyard.” They will give you money for your car, but it depends on the type of car and how popular that type of car is.
Before taking your car to any junkyard, one should first determine what documents are required by state law to transfer ownership properly. Typically this requires transferring the title from yourself to the junkyard business itself.
Hence, all necessary paperwork must be completed correctly before delivering the vehicle to a junkyard site. And some junk yards offer free tow services if they think they can sell your car for parts. This can save you money on tow fees.
Number 04: Trade-in the Car
Trading in a car that doesn’t run may not be easy, but it is possible. The appropriate way to do this is to research your options and find a reliable dealer to offer you a fair trade-in value for the vehicle. It is important to remember that trading in a non-running car may result in a low offer for its value.
To maximize its trade-in value, ensure the car looks presentable and cleaned up before taking it to the dealership. Beforehand, try to list down any damages or malfunctions with the vehicle so you can accurately appraise its current condition and negotiate a better deal with the seller.
When selling a non-running vehicle, it’s also important to consider potential repair costs associated with restoring the car into working order. You may have to pay more for these repairs depending on how much damage has been done or what malfunction has occurred.
Along with assessing repair costs, check if any parts of the car could be salvaged or sold separately for extra cash. This could help offset some of the repair costs and give your trade-in offer more value.
Number 05: Sell the Car As-Is
Selling a non-running car as-is may be an attractive option since it requires minimal effort and can bring some quick cash relief when needed. When selling the car as-is, ensure to include detailed information about its condition in all advertising materials (e.g., online listings).
For example, note any mechanical issues and provide pictures of all damages or malfunctions that are visible on the exterior/interior of the vehicle. This will allow potential buyers to assess their purchase before negotiations accurately.
And, be honest about whether or not certain parts work (e.g., headlights) and provide other information related to its past repair history (if applicable).
Be sure to get at least three estimates from different salvage companies so you can compare offers and determine the best deal for your car’s condition and age.
Number 06: Call a Towing Company
Calling a tow truck company can be a good way to eliminate a non-running car. Most of them will buy it from you without needing repairs done first, saving you time and money.
Before making your decision, look around for the right company near you and compare prices so that you know how much they’ll offer. It usually only takes up to 24 hours for them to pick up your vehicle.
Make sure to get proof that they correctly disposed of it afterward (like a receipt or document). Otherwise, you could be responsible for any fines or charges related to improper disposal methods used by them in the future.
How Much Is a Car That Doesn’t Run Worth?
The value of a car that doesn’t run depends on the condition and features of the vehicle. Generally speaking, buyers can expect to pay between 20 to 40% of what they would for an equivalent running car.
This percentage assumes that all other factors are equal. Non-running cars need more repairs and maintenance than running ones. Therefore, a non-running car may be worth less than 20 to 40% if it requires extensive work before it is operable again.
Effectively Rid Yourself of A Non-Running Car
All these methods require you to research and ensure that you will get the most suitable deal possible for your vehicle. Knowing how much a car that doesn’t run is worth will help you determine which option is most ideal for your situation.
From selling your car for parts to donating or junking it, all these options can be explored depending on what works best for you financially and environmentally.
Ultimately, getting rid of an old vehicle can be time-consuming, but it is relieving knowing numerous solutions available on how to approach this task successfully.
