Getting rid of a car that no longer runs usually makes good financial sense, especially if it's taking up space on your property. Unfortunately, many people feel that junking an old car is an option of last resort. While it is true that selling your car to a salvage yard will generally fetch a lower price than selling it to a private buyer, there are many advantages to going down this path. Not only will it save you significant amounts of time, but it will save you money that might have to be spent making your car presentable.
If you've decided that offloading your old junker for salvage is the best option, then you may be wondering if it's still possible to negotiate a better price with the junkyard. The answer, as with many things, is "it depends."
Is Your Car Unique?
Cars that are particularly rare or unique may be able to fetch slightly higher prices with junkyards when compared to run of the mill commuter vehicles. Cars of this type can sometimes have parts that are valuable enough for the junkyard to pull before scrapping the vehicle, increasing the value of the car for them. It's important to understand, however, that the junkyard is still primarily in the business of dealing with scrap. You shouldn't expect to add thousands to your offer, but you may be able to earn a few hundred more bucks than you would otherwise.
Is Your Car Mostly Complete?
If the car runs and has a large number of salvageable parts, then this can also increase your value slightly. The initial estimate will usually take the condition of your car (as described by you) into account, but it can be worthwhile to carefully describe the condition and request a higher price. As with other options for negotiating with the salvage yard, do not expect to add a huge amount to the value of your car. Instead, consider this a way to up your total earnings a bit higher than the pure scrap cost of the car.
Is Towing Included?
Most scrapyards will include a free tow to the junkyard along with their estimation, but this isn't always the case. If towing isn't included and your vehicle is in an easily accessible area, requesting that towing be added for free or that you receive a credit for the cost on your car's valuation can be a good way to get a few extra dollars for your car. Most scrapyards run their own wreckers and will be happy to provide this service for you.
While there usually isn't room to negotiate an extra few thousand dollars on a junk car, it is often possible to pick up a few hundred bucks more than the initial valuation. A little negotiation can sometimes go a long way.
For more information on how to junk your car, contact a local salvage yard.