Scrap Car Value Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate the scrap value of your old or damaged car. The value is primarily determined by the car's weight, current scrap metal prices, and the presence of valuable components like a catalytic converter.
Enter the approximate weight of your car in kilograms. Check your car's manual or online specifications.
Input the current market price for scrap metal per kilogram in your area. This can fluctuate daily.
Estimate the value of your catalytic converter. This can range from $50 to over $1000 depending on the make and model.
Estimate the value of other parts that might be salvaged (e.g., wheels, engine components, undamaged body panels).
Check this box if your car can be driven to the scrap yard. If not, a towing deduction will be applied.
Estimated Scrap Car Value:
" + "Based on your inputs, the estimated scrap value of your car is: $" + totalEstimatedValue.toFixed(2) + "" + "Breakdown:" + "- " +
"
- Base Metal Value: $" + baseMetalValue.toFixed(2) + " " + "
- Catalytic Converter Value: $" + catalyticConverterValue.toFixed(2) + " " + "
- Other Salvageable Parts Value: $" + otherPartsValue.toFixed(2) + " " + (!isDrivable ? "
- Towing Deduction: -$" + towingDeduction.toFixed(2) + " (since the car is not drivable) " : "") + "
Understanding Your Scrap Car's Value
When it's time to say goodbye to an old, damaged, or non-running vehicle, understanding its scrap value can help you get the best deal. A scrap car isn't just junk; it's a collection of valuable materials and components that can be recycled or reused. This calculator helps you estimate what your car might be worth to a scrap yard or auto recycler.
Key Factors Influencing Scrap Car Value
Several elements contribute to the final price you'll receive for your scrap car:
- Car Weight (kg): This is arguably the most significant factor. Scrap yards primarily pay for the metal content of your vehicle. Heavier cars, like SUVs or trucks, generally yield more scrap metal and thus a higher base value than smaller sedans or compacts. The weight is usually measured after fluids and non-metallic components are removed, but the initial estimate is based on the vehicle's curb weight.
- Current Scrap Metal Prices ($/kg): The value of steel, aluminum, and other metals fluctuates daily based on global market demand. A higher market price for scrap metal directly translates to a higher payout for your car. It's always a good idea to check current local scrap metal prices before selling.
- Catalytic Converter Value ($): This component is a goldmine (literally, in some cases!). Catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which are extremely valuable. The value can vary wildly depending on the make, model, and year of your car, as different converters contain different amounts and types of these metals. Some can be worth hundreds, even over a thousand dollars, on their own.
- Other Salvageable Parts Value ($): Even if your car is considered "scrap," many parts might still be in good condition and can be resold. This includes components like wheels, tires, engine parts, transmission, alternators, starters, and even undamaged body panels or interior components. If these parts are functional, they add to the car's overall value beyond just its metal content.
- Car's Condition and Drivability: A car that can be driven to the scrap yard saves the buyer towing costs, which can increase your payout. If the car is not drivable, the scrap yard will typically deduct a towing fee from your offer. The overall condition (e.g., major damage, missing parts) can also influence the value of salvageable components.
- Location: Your geographical location can affect the value due to varying local demand for scrap metal and parts, as well as transportation costs to the nearest recycling facility.
How to Use the Scrap Car Value Calculator
Our calculator simplifies the estimation process:
- Car Weight (kg): Find your car's curb weight in its owner's manual or by searching online for your specific make and model.
- Current Scrap Metal Price ($/kg): Contact local scrap yards or check online resources for the current per-kilogram price of scrap steel or mixed metals in your area.
- Catalytic Converter Value ($): This is an estimate. You might need to do some research based on your car's make and model, or simply use a common average.
- Other Salvageable Parts Value ($): Consider if any major components (like good tires, an intact engine, or undamaged body parts) could be resold. Provide an estimated value.
- Is the car drivable?: Check this box if your car can be driven to the scrap yard to avoid a towing deduction.
Once you've entered these details, click "Calculate Scrap Value" to get an instant estimate. Remember, this is an approximation, and actual offers may vary.
Example Calculation:
Let's say you have a mid-size sedan:
- Car Weight: 1400 kg
- Scrap Metal Price: $0.22/kg
- Catalytic Converter Value: $300
- Other Salvageable Parts Value: $80
- Is Drivable?: Yes
Calculation:
- Base Metal Value: 1400 kg * $0.22/kg = $308
- Total Estimated Value: $308 (metal) + $300 (cat converter) + $80 (parts) = $688
If the car was NOT drivable, a typical $150 towing deduction would bring the value down to $538.
Using this calculator can give you a strong starting point for negotiations and help you understand the true worth of your end-of-life vehicle.