3 min read
You might look at your old car, see the rust, hear the rattles, and figure it’s a lost cause. But the truth? Even a junk car can hold real value, whether through parts, scrap metal, or resale to the right buyer. If you think your car’s basically worthless, this might change your mind.
The hidden value in the parts
Even when a car doesn’t run anymore, it often hides value in its pieces. Engines, transmissions, even electronics can get a second life. While a whole car scrapped might net you $145-$500, selling individual parts could fetch $1,000-$3,000+.
And scrap metal prices? Cars are mostly steel (plus aluminum, copper, etc.). A midsize sedan might get $225-$300 when scrapped and a heavier SUV or truck even more.
Here’s a table to break it down:
| Vehicle Type | Approx. Weight | Typical Scrap Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Compact car (~1 ton) | ~2,000 lbs | ~$150-$200 |
| Midsize sedan (~1.5 tons) | ~3,000 lbs | ~$225-$300 |
| SUV (~2 tons) | ~4,000 lbs | ~$300-$400 |
| Pickup truck (~2.5 tons) | ~5,000 lbs | ~$375-$500 |
So yes, even a car that looks trashed might still fetch a few hundred bucks. The question is: How do you unlock that value?
Why you’re sitting on more value than you think
There are three main reasons your old car is worth more than you realize:
- Parts demand is strong. If your car’s engine still works, or the electronics are intact, those can be sold. That transmission or alternator might be worth more than you expect.
- Scrap metal value counts. Even if the car won’t run, its metal is still weight and still money. That car frame, wheels and bulk metal add up.
You don’t need full functionality. A buyer that deals in “as-is” cars isn’t looking for showroom perfection. They’re buying for salvage parts, or scrap. Meaning: you don’t have to spend hundreds on repairs just to sell.
Problems people run into
Of course, there are things that reduce value. If large portions are missing, if the catalytic converter’s already gone (those contain platinum/palladium/rhodium and thieves target them), or if the car is partly stripped, value drops.
The condition matters. If you’re holding out for “let’s fix it and sell it for full price,” you might lose money in time, parts, and effort.
How to decide whether to scrap vs. part out vs. sell as-is
Let’s compare your options:
| Option | Time & Effort | Potential Payout | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parting out major components | High (weeks/months) | Highest ($1,000+) | You have time, tools, space |
| Scrapping entire car | Low (few hours) | Moderate (~$150-$500) | You want fast, no-fuss cash |
| Selling as-is to buyer | Very low (minutes) | Moderate/Good (depends offer) | You want max convenience & cash |
Tools and space matter. If you have the time and know-how, parting out can earn more. But if you want fast results and less hassle, selling to a buyer who takes it whole makes sense.
Why Peddle is your smart move
Here’s where Peddle shines:
- We buy cars as-is: wrecked, non-running, stripped, doesn’t matter.
- No repair needed, no waiting.
- Free pickup + immediate offer.
- You don’t have to worry about listing parts, finding buyers, towing yourself.
So next time you glance at that old car and think “worthless,” pause. Its engine might have value. Its parts sure do. Even its frame and metal carry weight. You just need the right route to unlock it.
Whether you go the parts route, scrap route, or sell as-is, your old ride has more value than you probably think. And if convenience is your priority? Peddle is a proven way to turn that value into cash, fast.
Ready to cash in? Get your instant offer from Peddle, pick a pickup date, and let the value reveal itself, no guesswork, no repairs, just real money for your car.
