How to Scrap a Car!

How to Junk a Car

 

Car and trucks are just like any other large appliances: they have a life cycle, and the breakdown of many different kinds of parts and systems potentially lead to a junk car that is not worth keeping anymore. But vehicles have a specific process associated with their disposal, not only because of how big and complicated they are, but because of all the rules and regulations for ownership of a vehicle, which vary a bit in different states. If you're looking to scrap or junk a car, some basic steps will help make this process quick, easy and effective.

Steps

1. 1
   Get the title.   (most states will not allow you to scrap a car without a title)  As a key part of ownership documentation, vehicle owners will need the vehicle title in their name in order to dispose of the vehicle. Some drivers don't know about this, and think that they only need the title for resale, but in most cases, salvage yards and other venues will not take your vehicle off your hands without this piece of paperwork.
2. 2
   Look at all available options. When you are contacting scrapyards, junk yards and other facilities, you'll need to look at how you can most benefit from disposing of your car. The subjective value of a junk car makes it important to research how much money you can get, and what is easiest way to dispose of your vehicle.
   • Assess the value of any new parts. If you have just added new tires or other parts to your vehicle, those will be worth money on their own. That's not to mention any other special parts that salvage yards can recover for possible resale. Play hardball with any takers, and point out value that may be left in your vehicle, in order to get at least a few dollars for your junk car.
   • Look at charitable donation alternatives. In many cases, people with cars that they don't want anymore will think about donating these to a charity, not only to help others, but also to get some potential kinds of tax deductions and write-offs. Look into this subject carefully, as the actual tax-deductible amount will change for any specific vehicle owner according to their overall annual tax filing situation.
3. 3
   Transport the vehicle. If your car or truck still runs, getting it to the salvage yard or other destination might be relatively easy, although you'll have to think about any lapses in inspection, insurance or other vehicle paperwork.
   • If your vehicle does not run or is not otherwise drivable, you'll have to factor the costs of towed transport into your overall plan for disposing of the vehicle. Some vehicle owners save money by renting basic hauling attachments rather than calling in the big trucks, but always be attentive to safety in whatever strategy you use to get your vehicle where it needs to go.
4. 4
   Surrender the vehicle. This important step protects you from liability after you leave your vehicle at some other location. In most states, your state Department of Motor Vehicles simply requires that you call the local office and inform them of the transaction (in Indiana, you can go online and do this). This way, they will know that you do not have possession of the vehicle if for some reason it is involved in an accident, stolen or otherwise used before it is scrapped.