Scrap Car Prices: Current Rates & Values Per Ton
Wondering what the average scrap price of cars is? As of November 2025, scrap car prices range from $140 to $630 for complete vehicles, largely determined by the vehicle's weight. With scrap metal prices for cars at $140 to $180 per ton ($160/ton national average), a one-ton car could bring in about $140 on the lower end, while a heavier 3.5-ton vehicle might fetch around $630.
Key Highlights
- Scrap car prices (November 2025): $140–$180 per ton
- Complete car value range: $140–$630 depending on weight (1–3.5 tons)
- Average scrap car value: ~$160 per ton (≈ $300 for a mid-size car at 3,750 lbs)
- Per-pound scrap value: $0.07–$0.09/lb for steel
- State-by-state prices: Range from ~$125 to ~$185 per ton across the U.S.
- Yearly high: $205/ton (August 2025) | Yearly low: $115/ton (January 2025)
- Factors that affect scrap price: vehicle weight, metal content, completeness, location, and global metal market trends
- Scrap vs. junk value: Cars with resale parts may be worth significantly more than scrap alone
- Best time to sell: Summer months and economic upswings usually bring higher scrap prices
The Scrap Value of a Car
The scrap value of a car is determined by both its weight and several additional factors that affect offers from scrap yards.
- Vehicle Weight & Size: A 1-ton car typically brings $140 to $180 in scrap value, while a 3.5-ton vehicle can return between $490 and $630.
- Metal Content: Cars contain valuable metals including steel ($0.07–$0.09/lb), aluminum ($0.40–$0.80/lb), and copper ($2.45–$3.10/lb). Vehicles with higher amounts of these metals command better rates.
- Vehicle Completeness & Condition: Complete cars with intact frames, engines, and major components are worth more than stripped or heavily damaged ones. Newer or well-maintained junk cars may also retain higher part value.
- Salvageable Parts: Engines, transmissions, catalytic converters, and aluminum wheels often add value above metal weight alone. Rare or in-demand parts can significantly increase the offer.
- Location: Urban areas with multiple buyers typically pay more due to competition, while rural areas may offer less.
- Market Prices: Scrap rates fluctuate with global demand for steel, aluminum, and copper. Seasonal trends and economic conditions also play a role.
- Preparation: Cleaning out personal items, draining fluids, and gathering paperwork can simplify the process. Getting multiple quotes helps ensure the highest payout.
Scrap car value is primarily calculated by multiplying the vehicle's weight by current metal prices. A typical mid-size car weighing 3,750 pounds brings $260 to $335 in scrap value. Smaller cars weighing 2,000–2,750 pounds typically fetch $140 to $250, while larger vehicles can bring up to $630. For maximum value, consider selling valuable components separately before scrapping — a complete car with all parts intact is often worth significantly more than scrap metal value alone.
What Are The Latest Prices for Scrap Cars?
Vehicle weight is the primary factor in determining the scrap value of a car since scrap yards pay by the ton. Heavier vehicles contain more metal and therefore command higher prices. Below are the latest price estimates for scrap cars, SUVs, and trucks as of November 2025, organized by vehicle class and typical weight.
How we get this data
We analyze thousands of real scrap car transactions across multiple dealers and yards, then cross-reference with current market rates. Our data is updated monthly and verified against industry reports. Always check with local yards for exact quotes.
| Vehicle Class & Est. Weight | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Mini & Subcompact (2,000–2,750 lbs) | $140 – $250 |
| Compact Cars (3,250 lbs) | $228 – $293 |
| Mid-Size Cars (3,750 lbs) | $263 – $338 |
| Full-Size Cars (4,500 lbs) | $315 – $405 |
| Crossovers (3,750 lbs) | $263 – $338 |
| SUVs (4,750 lbs) | $333 – $428 |
| Small Pickup Trucks (4,000 lbs) | $280 – $360 |
| Standard Pickup Trucks (5,000 lbs) | $350 – $450 |
Scrap car prices vary greatly. Contact your local scrap yard or metal recycling facility for exact quotes. Your car might be worth significantly more than its scrap value if it is a model in high demand or has valuable parts.
Calculate Your Car's Scrap Value
A car's scrap value is determined by multiplying its weight in tons by the current scrap metal price per ton for cars.
For example, a mid-size car weighing 1.875 tons and valued at $160/ton would be worth:
1.875 tons × $160 price per ton = $300
Values vary based on current market rates and your location.
How Much is My Scrap Car Worth?
To accurately determine the value of your specific scrap car, it’s best to use an online calculator or get quotes from various buyers.
Monthly Scrap Car Price Trends (2025)
Scrap car prices fluctuate throughout the year based on metal markets, seasonal demand, and recycling activity. The table below shows average monthly prices per ton and estimated vehicle values in 2025, reflecting real U.S. market trends.
| Month | Low Price ($/ton) | High Price ($/ton) | Est. Value Low ($) | Est. Value High ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| October | $140 | $190 | $259 | $345 |
| September | $160 | $195 | $295 | $350 |
| August | $160 | $195 | $295 | $350 |
| July | $160 | $195 | $295 | $350 |
| June | $160 | $190 | $290 | $345 |
| May | $150 | $185 | $260 | $330 |
| April | $160 | $188 | $275 | $335 |
| March | $155 | $188 | $265 | $335 |
| February | $145 | $185 | $250 | $330 |
| January | $150 | $190 | $260 | $335 |
View Scrap Car Prices Per Ton Near You
The table below provides a state-by-state breakdown of estimated scrap car prices per ton as of November 2025. These values vary based on local demand, competition, and market trends. For the most accurate rates, contact your local scrap yard.
| State | Estimated Price Range (Per Ton) | Complete Car Value Range (1 to 3.5 Tons) |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $150 to $165 | $150.00 to $577.50 |
| Alaska | $125 to $140 | $125.00 to $490.00 |
| Arizona | $160 to $175 | $160.00 to $612.50 |
| Arkansas | $145 to $160 | $145.00 to $560.00 |
| California | $175 to $190 | $175.00 to $665.00 |
| Colorado | $160 to $175 | $160.00 to $612.50 |
| Connecticut | $165 to $180 | $165.00 to $630.00 |
| Delaware | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| Florida | $150 to $165 | $150.00 to $577.50 |
| Georgia | $150 to $165 | $150.00 to $577.50 |
| Hawaii | $130 to $145 | $130.00 to $507.50 |
| Idaho | $135 to $150 | $135.00 to $525.00 |
| Illinois | $165 to $180 | $165.00 to $630.00 |
| Indiana | $160 to $175 | $160.00 to $612.50 |
| Iowa | $145 to $160 | $145.00 to $560.00 |
| Kansas | $135 to $150 | $135.00 to $525.00 |
| Kentucky | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| Louisiana | $150 to $165 | $150.00 to $577.50 |
| Maine | $145 to $160 | $145.00 to $560.00 |
| Maryland | $145 to $160 | $145.00 to $560.00 |
| Massachusetts | $165 to $180 | $165.00 to $630.00 |
| Michigan | $175 to $190 | $175.00 to $665.00 |
| Minnesota | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| Mississippi | $145 to $160 | $145.00 to $560.00 |
| Missouri | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| Montana | $135 to $150 | $135.00 to $525.00 |
| Nebraska | $140 to $155 | $140.00 to $542.50 |
| Nevada | $160 to $175 | $160.00 to $612.50 |
| New Hampshire | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| New Jersey | $165 to $180 | $165.00 to $630.00 |
| New Mexico | $145 to $160 | $145.00 to $560.00 |
| New York | $170 to $185 | $170.00 to $647.50 |
| North Carolina | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| North Dakota | $170 to $185 | $170.00 to $647.50 |
| Ohio | $165 to $180 | $165.00 to $630.00 |
| Oklahoma | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| Oregon | $160 to $175 | $160.00 to $612.50 |
| Pennsylvania | $165 to $180 | $165.00 to $630.00 |
| Rhode Island | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| South Carolina | $150 to $165 | $150.00 to $577.50 |
| South Dakota | $150 to $165 | $150.00 to $577.50 |
| Tennessee | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| Texas | $165 to $180 | $165.00 to $630.00 |
| Utah | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| Vermont | $145 to $160 | $145.00 to $560.00 |
| Virginia | $150 to $165 | $150.00 to $577.50 |
| Washington | $160 to $175 | $160.00 to $612.50 |
| West Virginia | $145 to $160 | $145.00 to $560.00 |
| Wisconsin | $155 to $170 | $155.00 to $595.00 |
| Wyoming | $135 to $150 | $135.00 to $525.00 |
While prices vary by location, understanding broader market trends can help you time your sale.
Scrap Car Pricing Trends in 2025
Track the market trends of scrap car prices over time. Understanding these patterns can help you choose the best time to sell your vehicle for the best price.Scrap car prices fluctuate due to changes in global metal markets, supply and demand, and regional factors like competition among scrap yards. Economic conditions, fuel costs, and seasonal trends can also impact metal recycling prices, causing prices to rise or fall.
Common Questions About Car Scrap Value
Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about scrap car pricing. From body-only values to timing your sale, here's what you need to know about the scrap price of your car.
What's a Car Body Worth in Scrap?
The scrap value of just the car body typically ranges from $100 to $350, depending on weight and current metal prices.
When Can I Get The Best Scrap Car Price?
Scrap prices are usually highest during summer months and economic booms when metal demand increases.
What is The Scrap Value of Crushed Cars?
Crushed cars typically fetch $120 to $140 per ton at scrap yards, as they've been stripped of valuable components.
What Are Scrap Car Prices Near Me?
Scrap car prices vary by location based on local market demand and competition. Contact your nearest scrap yard for the most accurate rates.
This pages data reflects national averages for scrap car prices. Local prices may vary based on regional market conditions, competition, and transportation costs. The estimated values are calculated based on an average mid-size vehicle weight of 1.75 tons.