Scrap Car Prices 2026
How Much Is My Scrap Car Worth?
Scrap car prices in the UK typically range from £100 to £600, depending on the vehicle's weight, make, and current scrap metal rates. Get an exact figure with a free instant quote below.
What affects your scrap car price?
Six factors drive the final number — weight is the biggest, but the others add up.
Kerb weight
The biggest driver of price. Scrap buyers pay per tonne of metal, so a heavy SUV or van will always outscore a small city car.
Scrap metal rate
Commodity prices shift daily. When steel and aluminium prices are high, your quote goes up. Rates are typically higher in summer.
Catalytic converter
Cats contain platinum-group metals worth £50–£300+. An intact cat in good condition adds real money to your offer.
Salvageable parts
Low-mileage engines, gearboxes, and alloy wheels have a second-hand market. Buyers factor this in when they quote.
Collection distance
Most reputable buyers offer free collection, but remote locations may attract a small deduction. Always confirm before agreeing.
SORN status and tax
Whether the car is taxed or SORN-ed doesn't change the scrap value, but it does affect who can legally drive it away.
Average scrap car prices by vehicle type (2026)
Estimates based on typical kerb weights and current scrap metal rates. Your actual quote may be higher or lower depending on condition and location.
| Vehicle type | Common examples | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| City car / supermini | Fiesta, Polo, Corsa | £90 – £200 |
| Family hatchback / saloon | Focus, Golf, Astra | £130 – £280 |
| Estate car | Passat Estate, Octavia Estate | £150 – £320 |
| MPV / people carrier | Galaxy, Touran, Zafira | £160 – £340 |
| Small SUV / crossover | Qashqai, Tucson, HR-V | £180 – £360 |
| Large SUV / 4x4 | Discovery, X5, Freelander | £250 – £550 |
| Small van | Transit Connect, Berlingo | £140 – £300 |
| Large van | Transit, Sprinter, Crafter | £250 – £600 |
Prices are indicative. Actual quotes depend on scrap metal market rates at the time of collection and vehicle-specific factors.
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Get my free quoteScrap car price questions
01How much is a scrap car worth in 2026?
Most scrap cars in the UK are worth between £100 and £600. The exact price depends on the vehicle's kerb weight, current scrap metal prices, make, and whether any parts have salvage value. Heavier vehicles like large SUVs or vans typically fetch more.
02Does a scrap car need to be in working order?
No. Scrap car buyers collect non-runners, MOT failures, accident-damaged vehicles, and vehicles that haven't been driven in years. Condition affects the price, but you will still receive a quote.
03What documents do I need to scrap my car?
You need the V5C (logbook) to complete the handover. If you've lost it, you can still scrap the car — the buyer records the sale differently. A reputable buyer handles the DVLA notification on your behalf.
04How is scrap car price calculated?
Price is primarily driven by the vehicle's kerb weight multiplied by the current scrap metal rate per tonne. On top of that, buyers factor in the catalytic converter, any parts with resale value, and collection costs.
05Will I get more from a scrapper or selling privately?
It depends. A high-mileage end-of-life car with no MOT will typically fetch more from a scrap buyer than privately. Cars with sought-after parts or low mileage may achieve more sold for parts or as a project. Scrapping offers speed and certainty with no haggling or viewings.
06Do scrap car prices change?
Yes — scrap metal is a commodity traded daily. Prices typically rise in summer and dip in winter. Quotes are usually valid for 24–48 hours, so it's worth checking close to when you want to sell.
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