How to Sell a Broken Car: A Simple Guide
If you’ve got a broken car sitting in your driveway, collecting dust and taking up space, you’re probably wondering how to sell it—and if anyone would even want it. The good news? Yes, there’s a market for broken cars. Whether it’s a blown engine, transmission problems, or it just won’t start, there are buyers out there who specialize in vehicles that aren’t road-ready. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to sell a broken car and get the most value out of it.
Before you sell, take some time to understand what’s wrong with the vehicle. Is it completely totaled, or does it just need a few repairs? Having a mechanic give you a quick evaluation can help you communicate the issues clearly to buyers. Even if it’s not worth fixing, knowing what’s broken can help you set a fair price.
To sell your car legally, you’ll need the title. If you’ve lost it, you can usually request a replacement from your state’s DMV. Some buyers may also ask for service records, so gather those if you have them. Being organized can make the process smoother and help build trust with the buyer.
You have a few options:
Sell to a private buyer: You might find someone who wants a fixer-upper, but this can take time and effort.
Sell to a junkyard or scrap yard: This is quick, but you might not get top dollar.
Sell to a car removal service: This is often the easiest and fastest way, especially if the car isn’t running.
Don’t settle for the first offer you get. Contact several buyers and compare their quotes. Some companies specialize in buying broken or junk cars and may offer free towing or other perks.
If you’re in Southern California, Cash For Cars Thousand Oaks is a great option. They specialize in buying all types of vehicles, including ones that are damaged or not running. With fast service, free towing, and no pressure sales, they make the process easy. You can get a quote over the phone or online, and they often pay cash the same day.
Before handing over the keys, make sure you remove all personal items from the vehicle and take off your license plates. In many states, you’ll need to return the plates to the DMV or transfer them to another vehicle.
Once you’ve agreed on a price and the buyer takes the car, make sure you get a bill of sale and complete any required paperwork to officially transfer ownership.
Final Thoughts
Selling a broken car doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right approach, you can turn a non-working vehicle into cash. Companies like Cash For Cars Thousand Oaks make the process simple, quick, and stress-free. Don’t let that broken car just sit—turn it into money today!