How Much Is My Scrap Car Worth? Factors That Set the Price
The most common question we get asked is some version of 'what's my car worth?' The honest answer is: it depends. Not in a vague, dodge-the-question way — there are specific factors that determine the price, and understanding them helps you know whether the quote you're getting is fair.
The Two Components of Scrap Car Value
Scrap car value has two main components: the base metal value and the parts value. Most cars are priced primarily on metal weight — a heavier car with more steel is worth more than a lighter one. But vehicles with working or salvageable parts can command a premium above their scrap weight alone.
Metal Weight and Scrap Prices
The base price for a scrap car is calculated by taking the vehicle's weight and multiplying it by the current scrap metal price per tonne. Scrap metal prices fluctuate — they're tied to global commodity markets and can shift significantly week to week. A typical family car weighs around 1.2 to 1.5 tonnes. At current scrap prices (early 2026), the base metal value of an average car sits between £150 and £300.
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What Increases Your Car's Scrap Value
- –Catalytic converter — still intact and not stolen. Platinum group metals inside make these valuable.
- –Alloy wheels in good condition — resale value above scrap weight.
- –Working engine or gearbox — particularly on common makes where parts are in demand.
- –Low mileage — electrical modules and drivetrain components worth more with less wear.
- –Recent tyres — if good condition, adds value.
- –Air conditioning compressor — reusable components have parts market value.
What Decreases Your Car's Scrap Value
- –Missing catalytic converter — this is a significant deduction. A stolen cat can reduce value by £100-£300.
- –Stripped interior — if the car has been stripped of sellable parts before collection, the price reflects that.
- –Severe fire or flood damage — affects what can be salvaged.
- –Missing wheels or tyres — recovery becomes more complex and parts value is lost.
- –Incorrect fuel — petrol in a diesel engine (or vice versa) affects the engine's salvage value.
How to Get the Best Price for Your Scrap Car
Be accurate when describing your car. Giving us a realistic picture of the vehicle's condition means the price we quote is the price we'll pay. Surprises on collection day don't help anyone.
Don't strip parts before calling us. If you remove alloy wheels or other components to sell separately, we'll price the car without them. Sometimes you come out ahead this way, but often the effort isn't worth the marginal difference.
Check that your catalytic converter is still on the car. Catalytic converter theft is rampant in London — if yours has been stolen, tell us. We'll still collect, but the price will be adjusted accordingly.
Getting a Fair Quote
When you contact scrapcar.london, we'll ask for your registration plate, a description of the car's condition, and your location. We look up the vehicle's details, check current market prices, and give you a quote. There's no obligation, and the quote is valid for a set period so you can take your time deciding.
