If you own your car for a long time, it depreciates and becomes less reliable. After a while, it can start to look and feel like a junk car, and you may wonder about how you should get rid of it. Selling a used car is a time-consuming endeavor – posting ads, responding to inquiries and meeting potential buyers. This is why many think twice before deciding to sell a junk car. You might ask yourself: is this level of effort worth it for a vehicle that will sell for very little? Luckily, there are a number of options that one can consider in regard to unloading a junk car.
Options for getting rid of a junk car include:
- Reselling to an individual
- Reselling to a mechanic
- Trading it in at a dealership while purchasing a different vehicle
- Donating it to charity
- Gifting it to a friend or family member
Determining Used Car Value
How do you determine the best option for you and your junk car? Determining the value of the vehicle is a key step. If your junk car is worth a small amount, such as $1500 or less, you may not want to waste any time trying to sell your used car to an individual. It simply may not be worth the time you invest in considering the return. If it is worth more, or you really need the cash, you might consider spending some time posting ads and conducting test drives. In order to determine the value of your vehicle, you can consult the Kelly Blue Book. Formerly a published guide, this resource has been available online for quite some time. Simply search for Kelly Blue Book, and their website will ask you a few questions about your vehicle, such as the make and model, year, mileage, and overall condition. Based on these, it will instantly tell you the vehicle’s estimated value. While this is not exact, the Kelly Blue Book is the go-to reference for auto pricing. Your car’s actual value maybe a little less or a little more, but it will be close to this estimate. Furthermore, the Kelly Blue Book will provide you the resale value and the trade-in value (the latter is less, but a much quicker way to get rid of your car).
How To Sell A Junk Car To Individual
If you have decided to try selling your junk car to an individual, post ads for it on free web directories. This might include local classified sites, as well as Facebook marketplace and similar. It is important you do not list it on a paid site as you do not want to take away from your already low profit. Decide also on some ground rules so you do not waste much time: cash only sales, only one test drive per potential buyers, etc. You also could set a timeframe to complete the sale, and if you exceed it, look into other options.
How To Sell A Junk Car To Mechanic
This is a quicker option to get rid of your junk vehicle, but you will get less money than in the previous option. Mechanics buy cars for parts, so they are unconcerned with the car’s cosmetic condition. They know cars on a level individual buyers do not, so their questions will be minimal. Contact local mechanics and ask if they buy junk cars. If they do, share your car’s specifics and gauge interest. The price you charge should be slightly below the trade-in value on Kelly Blue Book. Many mechanics will be able to tow the car from your location. The other thing, you can do is modify your old car before selling: this will add value also.
Trade-In Car At Dealership
If you are also buying or leasing a new car at a dealership, you will be asked if you have a trade-in vehicle. With some basic information you provide, the dealer will quote you the amount they can credit toward your sale in exchange for your junk car. This should be close to the Kelly Blue Book trade-in value. This is a quick and easy way to get rid of your junk car while buying or leasing a new vehicle.
Donating A Car That Doesn't Run To Charity
There are a number of charity organizations that will gladly take your junk car off your hands, and you get to claim a tax credit for the donation. These organizations can often pick up your junk car, which is a major plus if it is in a condition where it does not start. Research organizations in your area that accept vehicle donations, and get in touch. You will clear your driveway without much of a hassle, and get to feel good about helping the less fortunate.
Gifting A Car To A Friend Or Family Member
It could be that while you are done with your junk car, it could offer value to someone close to you and even give them a much-needed leg up during a hard time. If you decide to give your junk car to someone as a gift, make sure you take the right steps to sign the title over to them. It is generally a good idea to list it as a sale for a nominal amount – such as $1, as this will prevent the gift recipient from having to pay taxes on the gift.
Getting Rid Of Junk Car
No matter how you get rid of your junk car, remember to give it a good sweep to collect all your possessions prior to getting rid of it. Check the glove compartment, side compartments and under the seats. Check the trunk, using a flashlight. You might be surprised to find some items you long forgot about. Also, make sure that you remove all personal information from the glove box.
Remember that if you have a junk car, it likely means that you got a lot of use out of your car. Be proud of that, and thankful that your car served you well all these years. Once it is out of your life, you can enjoy a new automobile option.
