Yes. Heavier vehicles contain more metal and bring higher scrap prices. A full-size truck weighing 5,000 pounds has significantly more scrap value than a compact car weighing 2,500 pounds. Weight is one of the primary factors junk car buyers use to calculate offers.
Average vehicle weights and typical scrap values:
- Compact cars (2,500 to 3,000 lbs): $125 to $200 in scrap metal
- Mid-size sedans (3,000 to 3,500 lbs): $150 to $250 in scrap metal
- Full-size cars (3,500 to 4,000 lbs): $175 to $300 in scrap metal
- SUVs (4,000 to 5,500 lbs): $200 to $400 in scrap metal
- Trucks (4,500 to 6,500 lbs): $225 to $500+ in scrap metal
These figures represent raw metal value at typical scrap rates. Actual offers include parts value, which often exceeds metal value for complete vehicles.
Buyers calculate weight using curb weight (the car’s weight without passengers or cargo) from manufacturer specifications. They don’t weigh your car on a scale before making an offer. Provide your vehicle’s year, make, and model, and they’ll estimate the weight.
To maximize value from a heavy vehicle, get quotes from buyers who also value parts. A scrap-only yard pays by weight. A salvage yard pays for weight plus components. Learn why quotes vary between different buyers.
