3 min read
So maybe your car’s been sitting in the driveway more than it’s been driving, and you’re wondering whether it’s just taking up space or still worth something. Spoiler: The answer is yes, you absolutely can sell a non-running car. You just need the right strategy. Let’s break it down.
Why non-running doesn’t mean worthless
Cars that won’t start still hold value. How? For one, there are parts in good condition, engines, transmissions, electronics, that someone else may want. Plus, the scrap metal alone has value. Vehicle recycling data shows millions of cars each year reach end-of-life and are dismantled for their parts and materials.
Even guides aimed at non-running cars confirm the same: “A non-running car still holds some of its value, and you can sell it for cash if repairing it is out of the question.”
Your main questions answered
“Does it matter that it doesn’t run?” Yes and no. Running increases price, but non-running is saleable. The key is being honest about the condition. You’ll get less than market value, but you can sell.
“Where do I sell it?” Options include scrap yards, online buyers, or services specializing in non-running vehicles.
“What do I need?” Title or proof of ownership, condition disclosure, and readiness to accept a lower offer are common requirements.
What impacts your non-running car’s value
Here are key considerations:
- Make, model & year: A desirable make/model might still draw a higher offer because parts or enthusiasts exist.
- Condition of major components: Even if the car won’t start, a working transmission or safe body shell helps.
- Presence of parts thieves want: Missing catalytic converters, destroyed interiors, or stripped frames reduce value.
- Towing or damage fees: If the car can’t be moved or has severe damage, an offer will be lower. Though some places care about this, not us!
Market demand: Scrapyard offers vary widely by region and local demand.You might sell it to a scrap yard, a parts buyer or donate it, each with trade-offs.
Your options at a glance
| Option | Effort Level | Typical Payout | Best When… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sell “as-is” to a buyer | Low | Moderate | You want fast cash and minimal hassle |
| Part it out yourself | High | Highest potential | You have time, tools and space |
| Scrap for metal | Minimal | Lowest but guaranteed | You just need to remove it quickly |
Why it might be time to let go
If you’re staring at a car that hasn’t driven in months, that needs major repairs, or you’ve realized the cost to fix outweighs its value, you’re in a good spot to sell rather than sink more cash and time into it.
And if you want the easiest route? That’s where Peddle shows up.
Why Peddle is the easiest solution for your non-running car
When you’re ready to turn a non-running, repair-heavy car into cash, we step in and handle the toughest parts. We buy cars in any condition, running or not, damaged or intact. No repairs needed, no time wasted.
With Peddle, you don’t have to worry about whether it starts, how much you’ll fix or whether someone will want it, just decide to move on, get your offer, and free up the spot for your next chapter. Let us turn that non-running car into something good for you!
