The best time to junk a car is when repair costs exceed the vehicle’s value, when it no longer runs safely, or when scrap metal prices are high. Don’t wait for a car to rust away in your driveway. The longer you wait, the less it’s worth.
Ideal times to junk your car:
- When a major repair quote exceeds 50% of the car’s value
- When the car fails inspection with no affordable fix
- When scrap steel prices rise (check current rates)
- Before winter, when rust accelerates and towing gets harder
- When you need the space or want to stop paying insurance
Scrap metal prices fluctuate with the market. Steel prices affect what junk car buyers pay. Higher steel prices mean better offers for your vehicle. You can check current scrap car prices to see if now is a good time.
Seasonally, spring and summer are easier for pickups. Junk car buyers stay busy year-round, but scheduling is smoother when weather cooperates.
If you’ve been putting off the decision, today is better than next month. Vehicles depreciate constantly. Parts rust. Catalytic converters get stolen. Sell while your car still has value.
