If you’ve got an old car collecting dust in your garage, driveway, or backyard, you might be sitting on more money than you think. Whether it’s broken down, unused, or just outdated, that vehicle can be turned into fast cash — often within 24 to 48 hours.
In this article, we'll show you how to turn that forgotten car into real money, explain your options, and walk you through the fastest, easiest ways to sell.
Why Old Cars Are Still Valuable
Even if your vehicle doesn’t run or looks like it belongs in a junkyard, it has value. Here’s why:
-
Scrap metal and parts: Cars contain steel, aluminum, copper, and other valuable materials.
-
Used car market demand: Mechanics and buyers often hunt for parts from older vehicles.
-
Eco-incentives: Many cities or programs offer cash or credits to get polluting vehicles off the road.
-
Quick resale opportunities: Some companies specialize in flipping or recycling old vehicles efficiently.
Is Your Old Car Worth Anything?
Ask yourself:
-
Does it still run, even poorly?
-
Is the title clear and in your name?
-
Are major components like the engine or transmission intact?
If the answer to any of these is yes, you're more likely to get a higher cash offer. Even if not, scrap yards and car removal services will still pay — often including free towing.
Top 4 Ways to Turn Your Old Car into Quick Cash
1. Sell to a "Cash for Cars" Service
-
Best for: Fast, no-hassle transactions
-
Companies like Peddle, Wheelzy, and allcarremovalsperth.com.au buy vehicles in any condition.
-
Most provide quotes in minutes and pick up your car within a day or two.
Pros: No repairs needed, instant offers, free towing
Cons: May offer less than private buyers
2. Trade It In at a Dealership
-
Best for: Upgrading to a newer vehicle
-
Some dealerships accept older cars — even if they’re barely drivable — as trade-ins toward a new purchase.
Pros: Convenient if you’re buying another car
Cons: Dealers typically offer lower trade-in values
3. List It on a Private Marketplace
-
Best for: Cars that still run or have usable parts
-
Try Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp. Include honest photos and a description.
Pros: You may get top dollar
Cons: Requires time, negotiation, and dealing with strangers
4. Sell It for Scrap or Parts
-
Best for: Totally non-functional or wrecked vehicles
-
Local junkyards pay based on weight and materials. Catalytic converters, batteries, and engines can be worth extra.
Pros: Guaranteed payout for even the worst condition
Cons: May need to negotiate or arrange towing yourself (unless included)
What You’ll Need to Sell Quickly
To avoid delays, prepare:
-
Vehicle title or proof of ownership
-
A valid ID
-
Any keys or fobs
-
Odometer reading and condition info
If your title is lost, check with your state’s DMV for replacement options — some buyers will still work with you depending on your local laws.
Bonus: Declutter & Get Paid
Selling your old car isn’t just about the money — it’s about reclaiming space, simplifying your life, and reducing environmental waste. That unused vehicle takes up valuable room and may even be leaking fluids or attracting pests. Why let it sit?
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let It Rot — Turn It Into Cash
Your old car might seem worthless, but it could put $200 to $2,000 or more in your pocket — depending on its condition and how you sell it.
Need it gone fast?
Call a cash-for-cars service.
Want the most money?
List it privately if it’s drivable.
Want to help the planet?
Recycle it responsibly and get paid.
No matter your choice, remember: that old car in your garage isn’t just taking up space — it’s a hidden payday waiting to happen.