Yes. Scrap metal prices directly impact junk car values. When steel prices rise, buyers pay more for vehicles. When prices fall, offers decrease. The connection is strongest for cars sold purely for scrap and less significant for vehicles with valuable parts.
How metal prices affect your payout:
- Steel makes up 55% to 65% of a car’s weight
- Aluminum (engine blocks, wheels, radiators) adds additional value
- Copper (wiring, motors) contributes a smaller but valuable portion
- Scrap steel prices fluctuate from $0.05 to $0.15+ per pound
- A $0.02 per pound change can shift your offer by $50 to $100
A 3,500-pound car contains roughly 2,000 pounds of recyclable steel. At $0.08 per pound, that steel is worth $160. At $0.12 per pound, it’s worth $240. The difference matters, especially for stripped or non-running vehicles with minimal parts value.
Metal prices change weekly based on global supply and demand. Economic growth, construction activity, and international trade all influence rates. Check current scrap car prices before selling to time your sale when rates are favorable.
If your car has valuable parts, metal prices matter less. Parts value often exceeds scrap value, so a good engine or catalytic converter drives your payout more than steel rates.
