You’ll usually get a few hundred dollars to junk a car, but the exact amount depends a lot on weight, location, scrap metal prices, and whether key parts are still there.

Typical payout range

  • In many parts of the U.S., junkyards and “cash for cars” services commonly pay around $200–$500 for a complete junk car.
  • In the UK, typical scrap values often fall in the £200–£400 range for an average car.
  • Larger, heavier vehicles (SUVs, trucks, vans) can be closer to the top of those ranges or a bit higher because they contain more metal.

What affects the price

  • Weight of the car : Most yards essentially pay “per ton,” so heavier vehicles (full-size sedans, SUVs, pickups) bring more than small hatchbacks.
  • Completeness : Cars missing the catalytic converter, battery, wheels, or major parts are often docked heavily, or even refused at some yards.
  • Current scrap prices : Steel and other metal prices swing over time; when scrap is high, offers go up, and when it’s low, you may only see the bottom of the ranges.
  • Condition & title: A car that starts, moves, and has a clear title might get a better offer or be treated as a cheap beater rather than pure scrap.

Quick way to check your car’s value

  • Get 2–3 online quotes from “junk my car” or scrap car sites that ask for your VIN, mileage, location, and condition. Many give instant ballpark offers and free towing.
  • Call a local scrap yard and ask their current per‑ton rate for complete vehicles and whether they charge any fees or subtract for missing parts.
  • If your car still runs or only needs minor work, compare that scrap price with what you might get from a quick private sale; sometimes you can make several hundred more by selling it as a cheap runner instead of junking it.

Realistic expectations

  • Small, old, non‑running compact with missing parts: often near the bottom of the range (or even under $200/£200 if markets are weak).
  • Average complete compact or midsize car with major issues: commonly in the $200–$400 / £200–£300 zone.
  • Heavy SUV/truck that’s complete: can edge up toward $400–$600+ in strong scrap markets, especially if paid by weight.

Bottom note: Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.