Let’s say your car’s been in a bad accident—maybe it’s crumpled, not drivable, or declared a write-off by insurance. First thought? “It’s worthless now.” But here’s the thing: even wrecked cars still hold value, especially in the eyes of a scrap yard.
In fact, you might be surprised at how much that bent-up old vehicle is still worth.
So, Are Wrecked Cars Actually Worth Anything?
Short answer: yes—and often more than you think.
Even if your car is no longer roadworthy or repairable, scrap yards are still interested. Why? Because they’re not buying it for the same reasons you drive it. Scrap yards look at what’s inside the car, not whether it can pass a roadworthy test.
Think of it like this: your car might be broken, but its parts and metal still have value. A wrecked car is like a parts buffet for recyclers and auto wreckers.
What Scrap Yards Really Want from Wrecked Cars
Here’s what they usually look for:
1. Recyclable Metal
Steel, aluminium, and copper make up a large portion of most vehicles. These materials are always in demand and are fully recyclable. A single car can contain over a tonne of metal!
Even if the car’s panels are smashed or bent, the weight of the metal still counts towards its scrap value.
2. Working Parts
Just because the car won’t start doesn’t mean everything inside is dead. Parts like:
- Engine components
- Gearboxes
- Alternators
- Radiators
- Air con compressors
- Wheels and tyres
- Batteries
- Lights and mirrors
…may still be in good condition. These parts are often resold or reused, especially if they come from popular makes and models.
3. Catalytic Converter
This small part can be surprisingly valuable due to the precious metals inside it—like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Some wreckers pay extra for this alone!
4. Car Fluids and Electricals
Yes, even fluids like fuel, oil, and brake fluid can be recycled. Electrical components, sensors, and wiring harnesses are also reused or stripped for valuable copper.
Condition Doesn’t Always Kill Value
It doesn’t matter if your car is:
- Totaled in an accident
- Flood-damaged
- Burnt out
- Rusted beyond recognition
There’s almost always something usable in it—or at the very least, scrap metal to recycle. The only real difference is how much it’s worth, not if it’s worth anything at all.
How Much Can You Get for a Wrecked Car?
This depends on a few things:
- Make, model, and year
- Vehicle weight (more metal = more money)
- Current scrap metal prices
- Demand for spare parts
- Whether it’s complete (cars with missing parts may fetch less)
On average, you can expect anywhere from $200 to $9999 for a wrecked car, depending on these factors. Luxury cars, utes, 4WDs, and commercial vehicles often fetch more because of their size and part value.
Real Talk: Why Wrecked Cars Still Matter
Let’s say you’ve got a 2007 Toyota Corolla that’s been rear-ended. It’s no longer drivable, and repairing it would cost more than it’s worth. Instead of leaving it to collect dust or paying someone to tow it away, a scrap yard might pay you a few hundred bucks for it—cash in hand, same day.
We’ve even seen older utes and SUVs still fetch good money because of high metal content and reusable parts.
Selling to a Scrap Yard: What to Expect
When selling your wrecked car, here’s what the process usually looks like:
- You get a quote – Often over the phone or online, based on your car’s details.
- They organise free removal – Most reputable yards offer free towing.
- You get paid – Cash or bank transfer when the car is collected.
- They handle the paperwork – Including notifying VicRoads or your state’s transport department.
It’s fast, simple, and way better than letting your old car sit in the driveway collecting spiderwebs.
Is It Ever Not Worth Selling?
Very rarely. The only time a wrecked car might be worth nothing is if it’s missing major parts (engine, transmission, wheels) and the metal is severely corroded. Even then, you could still get free removal just to get rid of it.
Final Words: Don’t Underestimate That Wreck
Wrecked doesn’t mean worthless. It just means it’s valuable in a different way.
Scrap yards see beyond dents and damage—they see recyclable metals, usable parts, and raw materials. If you’ve got a vehicle that’s no longer usable or too costly to fix, don’t write it off completely. There’s probably still value left in it—and we’re here to help you get it.
Thinking of selling your wrecked car? Contact our team today for a no-obligation quote and same-day pickup. It’s fast, easy, and you might just walk away with more than you expected.
If you are in Preston, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
Bundoora Cash For Cars
13 Nickson St, Bundoora VIC 3083