Can You Sell a Non-Running or Damaged Car?

Selling any car can be a bit daunting, which is why most people prefer to trade in their vehicles for a newer model at the dealership. However, things become even more complicated if your car is significantly damaged after a car accident, heavily rusted, or the engine doesn't start.

With that said, can you sell a non-running or damaged car? The short answer is yes. A non-running car still holds some of its value, and you can sell it for cash if repairing it is out of the question. Selling a salvaged or damaged car might seem like a lot of work, but it's feasible with the right approach. Read on to learn how to sell your non-running vehicle and how to get as much for it as possible.

What is a non-running car?

In the automotive industry, a non-running car is a vehicle that cannot move under its own power or cannot start at all. This can be due to a seized engine, an electrical malfunction, or severe structural damage sustained during a crash.

While some issues can be fixed to restore the vehicle's functionality, others make it unusable. In such scenarios, the most practical option is to sell the car for parts or scrap metal.

Should you fix your non-running car?

In some cases, getting your vehicle repaired before you sell it might be more economical. It can be worth paying for the repairs in cases where damage is superficial or if the mechanical fault can be fixed. However, selling it as a non-running car is better if the repair costs are too high to recover through a sale.

Moreover, you need to understand whether your non-runner can be made roadworthy again if an insurance company has written it off. For instance, if your vehicle has been classified as a Category' S' or 'N' insurance write-off, it can't be fixed for use on the roads. In such a case, your only options are selling or scrapping your car. Other factors to consider include whether you can get repair parts easily, how long it will take to fix your non-runner, and how much stress the process could cause.

Where to sell your non-running or damaged car

Several viable options are available if you have a non-running car and want to get rid of it. It all depends on how fast you want to sell your car and how much money you want to make. Here are a few options for selling a non-runner or damaged vehicle.

Private sale

Since the buyer will have to arrange transportation, selling a non-running car to a private party can be a little challenging. Furthermore, finding and vetting a potential buyer can take time and involve negotiating with strangers, which can be uncomfortable.

However, this doesn't mean it is impossible to get a willing buyer. Being honest and transparent about your car's condition can attract interested buyers eager to take on the project. Ensure your non-runner is presentable and list it with detailed descriptions to engage prospective private buyers.

Trade-in or part-exchange

Some dealerships might accept a non-running vehicle as a trade-in, using the car's value towards your next purchase. If your non-running car is potentially repairable, a dealership may see it as a good investment opportunity.

Car dealers usually have in-house mechanics who can make a damaged car run again quickly but at a cost. However, you might have to shop around at multiple dealers before you get a good offer. Try both used car dealers and official brand dealerships.

Sell at junkyards or scrap yards

Junkyards and scrap yards accept cars in almost any condition, including ones that don't run. These services pay top dollar for junk vehicles, mainly for the salvage value of the metal and parts that can be recycled.

Be sure to reach out to several yards and compare offers to get the best deal. Keep in mind that the payment you receive will largely depend on the value of the scrap metal at the time of the sale.

Sell at an auction

Another viable option for selling your car is at an auction center. Nevertheless, since your vehicle can't be driven, a salvage auction is usually more suitable than a conventional auction.

Salvage auctions specialize in non-running and damaged cars. You can get a few hundred dollars from an auction, but this largely depends on the specifics of your car and the current market conditions. Keep in mind that a seller's fee will often apply, and you will have to get your non-running vehicle shipped to the auction center.

Use online platforms

Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay Motors offer a far-reaching audience for selling a non-running or damaged car. These platforms give you control over the selling process, allowing you to set either a direct sale price or auction the vehicle.

Leveraging online platforms can lead to better offers if your vehicle has valuable components or is a model with a high demand for parts. The most useful parts of a car include the engine, body parts, GPS, catalytic converter, exhaust system, and stereo.

Donate to charity

If money is not a reason for selling your car, you can donate it to a good cause rather than scrapping it outright. Many online services, most of them local are willing to take your non-running car off your hands. They will pick up your vehicle for free, list it, auction it off, or scrap it. You just indicate the organization you want the proceeds to go toward, and they will take care of the donation on your behalf.

The good news is that you could qualify for a tax deduction when you take this route. In addition, you won't have to worry about spending your hard-earned money on repairs or marketing your car. Your donation could help a person in need, making the world a better place.

How to sell a non-running car

Selling a non-running car can be tricky, but with the right approach, it's possible, and you can do it efficiently. Here are a few tips for making the process as hassle-free as possible.

Assess the car's condition

Understand why your car isn't running before listing it for sale. Take the vehicle to a local mechanic for a full inspection and diagnosis and request a report on its major systems.

Decide whether to pay for minor repairs to make the car run again or sell it in its current state. Weigh the cost of repairs against the possible increase in sale price. Generally, fixing a non-running car makes sense if the repair costs are low enough that you can recoup them when selling the vehicle afterward.

Determine the car's value

Research the market value of your vehicle's make, model, and year in running condition. After that, adjust the price depending on its non-running status. A non-running vehicle's value is often lower than that of an equivalent running car. Typically, a non-running car cannot be more than 20-40% of the value of an equivalent running vehicle.

Use online tools like Kelley Blue Book to determine the value of your car based on its condition. This will give you a good idea of what you can expect to get paid when selling your damaged or salvaged car.

Gather necessary documentation

You should also prepare a bill of sale outlining the terms of the transaction. This document should show you are selling the car as-is and state its non-running condition.

Create a practical listing

Take clear pictures of the vehicle from multiple angles and include close-ups of both exterior and interior. Draft a detailed car description, including the make, model, year, and condition. Be open about why the car isn't running and any known issues.

Find the right buyer

List your non-running car on platforms like Craigslist and local classifieds, and be honest and transparent about its condition in your listing. Engage with online forums and communities that are single-minded to car enthusiasts. These groups usually have members looking for project cars.

Reach out to local junk car buyers, salvage yards, and auto recyclers. These services usually buy non-running or damaged cars for scrap metal and parts. You can also use sites that specialize in purchasing non-running cars, like Copart and Peddle.

Negotiate and close the sale

Keep in mind that some back-and-forth is normal when selling a non-running car. Know your minimum price, but be open to reasonable offers. Be prepared for low offers and be ready to discuss the price together with the required repairs. Highlight any positive aspects, including a new car part or recent repair.

Figure out how the buyer will get the car. Since the car doesn't run, towing or transporting might be needed. Discuss logistics with the buyer and who will be responsible for any associated costs. While some buyers might have their own means, others might need you to handle the transportation.

The bottom line

Having a damaged or otherwise inoperable car provides more options than you may think. For relatively new cars in good condition, you could sell them to a dealership or at an online car auction. On the other hand, you can sell the working parts if the car is non-functional but is a popular model.

While private buyers and junkyards are often great options, you can get a good value for your non-runner by selling to an online car buyer. That said, before you sell your non-running car, ensure you have fully assessed the damage and disclose the vehicle's past and present condition to potential buyers.