Yes. Most junk car buyers purchase vehicles without keys. A missing key doesn’t prevent them from towing the car or selling it for parts and scrap. However, having keys sometimes increases your offer because it’s easier for the buyer to move and process the vehicle.
How missing keys affect value:
- Most buyers: No price reduction, they expect to work without keys
- Some buyers: Slight reduction ($20 to $50) for the inconvenience
- Parts-focused buyers: May prefer keys to test components
What buyers do without keys:
- Use flatbed tow trucks that don’t require the car to roll in neutral
- Use wheel dollies to move non-rolling vehicles
- Make replacement keys for valuable inventory (rare)
- Process the car without ever starting it
When getting quotes, mention that you don’t have keys. This keeps the quote accurate and prevents surprises at pickup. Honest descriptions lead to reliable offers.
If you have one key but it doesn’t work (dead battery, ignition problem), that’s still useful information. A key that physically fits the locks has some value even if the car doesn’t start.
Lost keys won’t prevent your sale. Junk car buyers handle keyless vehicles regularly. It’s a minor detail, not a dealbreaker.
