Sell Non-Running Car

Sell a car that doesn't run, without fixing it first

A car that won't start still has value. Our buyer partner buys cars in any condition, and the tow truck doesn't need the car to move.

Get your free cash offer

We don't buy cars: our buyer partner makes the offer. Free, no obligation, about 2 minutes.

Who makes the offer?

Cash For Junk Cars 500 doesn't buy cars. We pass your request to our buyer partner, which makes the offer. It works with junkyards, salvage yards, wrecking yards, auto auctions and other car buyers in your area, so one of them may handle the pickup and payment. We may earn a referral fee from the partner for your request; you pay nothing. Sending a request doesn't guarantee a sale.

Before you accept, confirm the amount you'll be paid, how you'll be paid and what proof of ownership you need. The partner's privacy policy and terms, linked above the button, apply to what it does with your request.

Any condition, running or not
Free towing and payment at pickup
No obligation: you can turn down any offer

Questions? Call(855) 497-1176

Why fixing it first rarely pays

A rebuilt engine or transmission can cost several thousand dollars, which is often more than an older car is worth once it runs again. Selling it as-is skips that bet. You get paid for the car you have, and the buyer takes on the repair or recycles the parts.

The form only asks about the car's year, make and model. When the buyer contacts you, say the car doesn't run, or that you're not sure if it hasn't been tried in a while. A car that sat for a year might only need a battery.

Common problems on cars sold as-is

Blown head gasket, seized engine or thrown rod
Transmission that slips or won't go into gear
Electrical faults and no-crank, no-start cars
Failed emissions or inspection
Cars that sat so long the brakes locked up

Two cheap checks before you sell

If the car has only been sitting, try a jump start or a new battery first. A battery costs far less than the difference between a running and a non-running offer. Also make sure there's fuel in the tank; a car that sat for months may need fresh gas.

If it cranks but won't start, or there's a knocking sound, smoke or a warning light that came on right before it died, stop there. Those usually point to repairs that cost more than the car is worth, and the as-is offer is the better deal.

How does selling work?

You send the form, our buyer partner contacts you with an offer, and if you accept, it schedules the pickup. The full steps.

Pricing

How much is a junk car worth?

A junk car is worth its scrap weight plus any parts that can be resold. At about $186 per ton for complete cars, a typical sedan is worth roughly $310 in metal alone. Cars that still run, or that are less than ten years old, are usually worth more because their parts are in demand.

Missing parts lower the price. The catalytic converter matters most because of the precious metals inside it. Having the title in your name keeps the price at the top of the range.

Try the calculator Scrap price guide

Scrap value by vehicle type at $186/ton, from iScrap's national average moved by the BLS scrap index (updated November 5, 2026, how it's set)
Vehicle type	Typical weight	Scrap value
Compact carHonda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Ford Focus	2,700 lb	$250
Midsize or full-size sedanToyota Camry, Honda Accord, Chevy Impala	3,300 lb	$310
Small SUV or crossoverHonda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape	3,500 lb	$330
Midsize SUVFord Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Jeep Grand Cherokee	4,200 lb	$390
Pickup truckFord F-150, Chevy Silverado 1500, Toyota Tacoma	4,800 lb	$450
Heavy-duty truck or large SUVF-250, Silverado 2500, Suburban	6,200 lb	$580

Scrap value only. Running cars and newer cars usually get offers above these numbers.

FAQ

Sell Non-Running Car: common questions

Do I need to get it running for the pickup?

No. A car that doesn't run can be winched onto a flatbed. Just make sure the truck can get close to it, or tell the buyer when the pickup is scheduled if it can't.

My car has a blown engine. Is it worth anything?

Usually yes. The body, transmission, catalytic converter and interior still carry value, and the metal alone is worth something. Run the estimate and you'll see a range.

Can I sell it if I'm not sure what's wrong?

Yes. You don't need a diagnosis. When the buyer contacts you, describe what happens when you try to start it, and they'll make the offer from there.

Can I sell a junk car without a title?

Often, yes, depending on your state and the car's age: some states don't title older cars at all, and elsewhere a duplicate from the DMV usually takes a short form and a small fee. Our title guide covers each state's rules.

Do I have to pay for the tow truck?

No. Towing is included with every offer from our buyer partner. Before you accept, ask the buyer to confirm nothing else comes out of the price, and be wary of buyers who quote a high price and then subtract a towing fee when they arrive.

Sell Non-Running Car near you

You can send a request from any state. Popular cities:

Page last reviewed November 6, 2026.

Ready to sell your junk car?

Request a free offer in about two minutes, or call with questions. Towing is free and you're paid at pickup.

Get my offer (855) 497-1176