Take out personal belongings, remove the license plates, and retrieve any custom accessories worth keeping. You don’t need to remove mechanical parts, drain fluids, or strip the interior. Scrap yards and junk car buyers handle all of that during their processing. Focus on your personal items and required paperwork.
Checklist before scrapping:
- Check glove box for documents and valuables
- Look under seats and in door pockets
- Empty the trunk and any storage compartments
- Remove garage door openers and parking passes
- Take out phone chargers and cables
- Retrieve CDs, sunglasses, and personal items
- Remove license plates (check your state’s requirements)
- Get your title and registration ready
Things you can leave:
- Fuel in the tank (not worth siphoning in most cases)
- Old floor mats and seat covers
- Broken accessories or worn parts
- Fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid)
- Factory stereo and speakers
Some people ask about removing the catalytic converter, battery, or other valuable parts. Unless you have the equipment, knowledge, and a legal way to sell these items, leave them. Junk car buyers factor their value into your offer. Removing parts yourself typically reduces your quote while creating extra work.
Take photos of the odometer and VIN before the car leaves. These records help if any questions arise later with your DMV or insurance company. Learn what to do after you junk your car to complete the process properly.
