The junk cars that are in demand right now are trucks, SUVs, and 2010 or newer models. Parts for these vehicles sell quickly so salvage yards pay more to get them.
Currently in-demand vehicles:
- Full-size trucks: Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra
- Mid-size trucks: Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado
- SUVs: Jeep Wrangler, Toyota 4Runner, Honda Pilot
- Crossovers: Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox
- Sedans: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima
Demand follows the used car market. When new car prices rise, people keep vehicles longer and need more repair parts. In turn, that increases the demand at salvage yards, which raises junk car prices.
Seasonal demand also plays a part. 4-wheel drive trucks and SUVs are in high demand before winter, whereas convertibles and sports cars move faster in spring and summer.
Buyers also pay extra for vehicles with catalytic converters intact, and vehicles with larger engines have bigger converters with more precious metals.
So if you own a high-demand vehicle, maximize your payout by getting multiple quotes.
