Whether you’re looking to free up some cash to buy a new car, or you have simply been holding onto an older vehicle for a little too long and it’s time to finally say goodbye to it, you want to make sure that you’re doing it in the right way. There could be money to be made, or at least some good to be done if you take your time to find the right approach to be rid of that old set of wheels once and for all.
See if you can sell it on the private market
If you’re able to find someone who will buy your car directly from you, this is typically how you’re going to see most of the value. Look at local car buying and selling forums, but be careful to make sure that you don’t fall into any scams on the way. The private market has fewer protections.
Get the value of its parts
If you’re not able to sell the car itself, then you could get a chunk of change for breaking it down into its parts, as well. Individual parts sell best for cars that have a specific kind of demand, such as classic or collector cars, usually bought by those who are trying to restore their own car, but they can fetch a decent price in such markets.
Find a specialist dealer
Many cars can be traded into any dealership for some price, and it’s a relatively easy way to get it taken off of your hands. However, if you’re looking to get the best price for it, finding the right place to sell it can be key. If you have a classic Porsche, for instance, then you want to bring it to a buyer of classic Porsches. Not every car has this kind of collector, classic, or niche appeal, but those that do are almost always worth something in the right hands.
Consider giving it to a charity
Believe it or not, there are many charitable causes willing to take old cars off of your hands. In some cases, they might be able to use them for their own causes, but usually, they will either refurbish and sell them or sell them for parts and use the funds they raise from that towards their causes. There are plenty of ways to donate your car and charities willing to accept them, so do a little research.
Junk it
If you really have no other option, and your car isn’t going to get sold, donated, or otherwise made some use of, then you can instead look at taking it to your local car wrecker. These businesses take cars in practically any condition. They can take out any worthwhile parts and pay for them individually, but they will also give a little money for the scrap metal gained in return.
You can find someone who will be willing to take your car, no matter what state it’s in. Take the time to find the right person for the job.
