Let’s be honest—no one dreams of the day their car stops running for good. Whether it’s a worn-out engine, electrical issues, or a crash that left it beyond repair, dealing with a non-running car can be frustrating. It’s taking up space in your driveway, and let’s face it, it’s not doing you any good just sitting there.
So, what now?
Selling a car that’s not running might sound like a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, there’s a market for cars in all sorts of conditions—damaged, broken down, and even the ones that haven’t started in years. If you’re thinking about letting go of that lifeless vehicle, here’s what you need to know before you do.
1. Know Why the Car Isn’t Running
Before anything else, try to get a clear understanding of why the car isn’t working. Is it something minor like a dead battery or alternator? Or is it a serious engine or transmission failure?
Even if you’re not a mechanic, getting a professional diagnosis can help. Why? Because buyers will want to know what they’re getting into. If you can give them a solid answer like, “It needs a new engine” or “The head gasket is blown,” you’ll come across as more trustworthy—and possibly get a better offer.
For example, one of our past sellers had a 2006 Holden Commodore that hadn’t started in two years. Turns out, the issue was a seized engine. Once he told us that upfront, we were able to make a quick, fair offer and pick it up the same day.
2. Be Honest About the Condition
This one’s important. Don’t try to sugar-coat the condition of your car. Transparency goes a long way in this business.
If the car’s missing parts, has a crushed door, or hasn’t had an oil change in a decade, just say so. It might seem like you’re lowering the value by being honest, but you’re actually speeding up the process. The more accurate the information you provide, the fewer back-and-forth calls or price changes later.
One customer recently tried to sell us a car advertised as “non-running due to battery.” When we arrived, we found a missing radiator and signs of fire damage under the hood. Not only did it affect the final offer, but it also delayed the process. Honesty upfront would have saved time for both sides.
3. Gather Your Paperwork
Even if your car isn’t running, having the proper documents makes a world of difference. At the very least, you’ll need proof of ownership—typically your vehicle title or registration. If you’ve lost it, don’t panic. In most Australian states, you can apply for a replacement through your local transport authority.
Having the paperwork ready also helps prevent any legal issues later. Imagine selling a car without a title, and then months down the line, someone calls you about fines or tolls. Not fun.
Pro tip: If your car has personalised plates you want to keep, make sure to remove them before handing the car over.
4. Decide If You’re Selling Privately or to a Car Removal Service
You have a few options when selling a car that isn’t running. Private buyers, scrap yards, and cash-for-cars services are all possibilities—but each has its pros and cons.
- Private sale: You might get a bit more money if you find the right buyer. But it could take weeks or even months, especially if the car needs towing.
- Scrap yards: These guys are mainly after the metal. If your car has rare parts or valuable scrap, it’s worth checking. But don’t expect top dollar.
- Cash-for-cars services: This is usually the quickest option. Companies like ours handle the paperwork, offer free towing, and pay cash on the spot. Perfect if you want it gone fast.
We had a customer from Dandenong who was trying to sell their old Mazda privately for three months with no luck. One call to us, and it was gone the next day—with $800 in their hand.
5. Understand the Value of Your Car (Even If It’s Dead)
Just because your car won’t start doesn’t mean it’s worthless. Cars that don’t run still have value in parts, metal, or resale—especially if it’s a popular make or model.
Let’s say you have a Toyota Hilux that’s not running. Even with a broken engine, it might have a decent resale value because parts are in high demand. On the other hand, a less common or older model might be worth more as scrap metal than anything else.
A good cash-for-cars company will factor all this in and offer a price based on your specific car. Be cautious of anyone who gives you a generic quote without asking any questions—they may not be giving you a fair deal.
6. Plan the Pickup (and Towing Costs)
This is a big one—how’s the car getting from your driveway to the buyer?
Many private buyers don’t have the means to tow a non-running car, and arranging towing yourself can cost hundreds depending on the distance. That’s why a lot of people choose services like ours. We provide free towing, no matter where the car is in Melbourne, and often do same-day pickups.
If someone asks you to pay for towing on top of offering a low price, that’s usually a red flag.
7. Clear Out Your Belongings
It’s easy to forget this part—especially when the car hasn’t been driven in ages. But take a few minutes to check the glove box, boot, under the seats, and even in the ashtray. You’d be surprised how many people leave behind their garage remotes, sunnies, or even important paperwork.
One time, we found a gold necklace under the back seat of a Toyota Camry while loading it onto the truck. The seller didn’t even remember it was there. Thankfully, we were able to return it, but not everyone’s that lucky. So, double-check before the car goes.
8. Remove the Number Plates (If Required)
Depending on your location, you may need to remove the plates before selling or scrapping your car. In Victoria, for example, you’ll need to return them to VicRoads if the vehicle is being written off.
You don’t want someone else using your plates for anything shady—so don’t forget to take them off if needed.
Something to Keep in Mind
Selling a car that’s not running might not be as straightforward as selling a shiny new ride, but it doesn’t have to be stressful either. With the right knowledge and approach, you can turn a non-working vehicle into quick cash—and maybe even free up some space in your garage or driveway.
Whether it’s been sitting for a week or a year, there’s almost always someone out there who wants it. You just have to know where to look—and what to ask. If you’re unsure about anything, reach out to a trusted local car removal company. Most are happy to walk you through the process without pressure.
Sometimes, letting go of an old car is the start of something better—less clutter, more cash, and one less thing to worry about.
If you are in Lysterfield, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
Top One Cash For Cars
7 Grant St, Dandenong VIC 3175
(03) 4800 5671