Scrap Car Prices: Current Rates & Values Per Ton
Wondering what the average scrap price of cars is? As of May 1, 2025, scrap car prices range from $150 to $700, largely determined by the vehicle's weight. With scrap metal prices for cars at $150 to $200 per ton, a one-ton car could bring in $150 at the lower end, while a heavier 3.5-ton vehicle might fetch up to $700.
Below is a breakdown of current scrap car price ranges:
(May 2025)
(May 2025)
(May 2025)
The Scrap Value of a Car
The scrap value of a car is determined by several key factors:
- Vehicle Weight & Size: A 1-ton car typically brings $150-$200, while a 3.5-ton vehicle can between $525-$700.
- Metal Content: Cars contain valuable metals including steel ($0.07-$0.16/lb), aluminum ($0.40-$0.80/lb), and copper ($2.45-$3.10/lb).
- Vehicle Completeness: Vehicles with full metal content (unstripped body, frame, engine, block, etc) command higher prices compared to partially dismantled cars missing significant metal components.
- Location: Urban areas often offer higher rates due to competition and demand.
- Market Prices: Scrap metal rates fluctuate based on global market conditions.
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 $281.25 to $375 in scrap value. Smaller vehicles weighing 2,000-2,750 pounds typically fetch $150 to $275, while larger vehicles can bring up to $700. For maximum value, consider selling valuable components separately before scrapping - a complete car with all parts intact is often worth significantly more than its scrap metal value alone.
What Are The Latest Prices for Scrap Cars?
Vehicle weight is the primary factor in determining 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 May 1, 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 | Common Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini & Subcompact | 2,000-2,750 lbs | $145 - $267 | Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris |
| Compact Cars | 3,250 lbs | $243.75 - $325 | Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla |
| Mid-Size Cars | 3,750 lbs | $281.25 - $375 | Honda Accord, Toyota Camry |
| Full-Size Cars | 4,500 lbs | $337.5 - $450 | Toyota Avalon, Dodge Charger |
| Crossovers | 3,750 lbs | $281.25 - $375 | Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 |
| SUVs | 4,750 lbs | $356.25 - $475 | Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander |
| Small Pickup Trucks | 4,000 lbs | $300 - $400 | Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma |
| Standard Pickup Trucks | 5,000 lbs | $375 - $500 | Ford F-150 , Ram 1500 |
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 $150/ton would be worth:
1.875 tons × $150 price per ton = $281.25
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 is best to use an online calculator or get quotes from various buyers.
View Scrap Car Prices Per Ton Near You
The table below provides a state-by-state breakdown of estimated scrap car prices per ton. 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 $170 | $150.00 to $595.00 |
| Alaska | $125 to $145 | $125.00 to $507.50 |
| Arizona | $160 to $180 | $160.00 to $630.00 |
| Arkansas | $145 to $165 | $145.00 to $577.50 |
| California | $175 to $195 | $175.00 to $682.50 |
| Colorado | $160 to $180 | $160.00 to $630.00 |
| Connecticut | $165 to $185 | $165.00 to $647.50 |
| Delaware | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| Florida | $150 to $170 | $150.00 to $595.00 |
| Georgia | $150 to $170 | $150.00 to $595.00 |
| Hawaii | $130 to $150 | $130.00 to $525.00 |
| Idaho | $135 to $155 | $135.00 to $542.50 |
| Illinois | $165 to $185 | $165.00 to $647.50 |
| Indiana | $160 to $180 | $160.00 to $630.00 |
| Iowa | $145 to $165 | $145.00 to $577.50 |
| Kansas | $135 to $155 | $135.00 to $542.50 |
| Kentucky | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| Louisiana | $150 to $170 | $150.00 to $595.00 |
| Maine | $145 to $165 | $145.00 to $577.50 |
| Maryland | $145 to $165 | $145.00 to $577.50 |
| Massachusetts | $165 to $185 | $165.00 to $647.50 |
| Michigan | $175 to $195 | $175.00 to $682.50 |
| Minnesota | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| Mississippi | $145 to $165 | $145.00 to $577.50 |
| Missouri | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| Montana | $135 to $155 | $135.00 to $542.50 |
| Nebraska | $140 to $160 | $140.00 to $560.00 |
| Nevada | $160 to $180 | $160.00 to $630.00 |
| New Hampshire | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| New Jersey | $165 to $185 | $165.00 to $647.50 |
| New Mexico | $145 to $165 | $145.00 to $577.50 |
| New York | $170 to $190 | $170.00 to $665.00 |
| North Carolina | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| North Dakota | $170 to $190 | $170.00 to $665.00 |
| Ohio | $165 to $185 | $165.00 to $647.50 |
| Oklahoma | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| Oregon | $160 to $180 | $160.00 to $630.00 |
| Pennsylvania | $165 to $185 | $165.00 to $647.50 |
| Rhode Island | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| South Carolina | $150 to $170 | $150.00 to $595.00 |
| South Dakota | $150 to $170 | $150.00 to $595.00 |
| Tennessee | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| Texas | $165 to $185 | $165.00 to $647.50 |
| Utah | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| Vermont | $145 to $165 | $145.00 to $577.50 |
| Virginia | $150 to $170 | $150.00 to $595.00 |
| Washington | $160 to $180 | $160.00 to $630.00 |
| West Virginia | $145 to $165 | $145.00 to $577.50 |
| Wisconsin | $155 to $175 | $155.00 to $612.50 |
| Wyoming | $135 to $155 | $135.00 to $542.50 |
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.Why Do Scrap Car Prices Fluctuate?
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.
This 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.
How to Get The Best Price for a Scrap Car
Getting the best price for your scrap car requires knowing the right strategies and timing. While the average scrap car brings $150-$700 depending on weight, these proven methods can help you maximize your payout:
- Time your sale strategically: Scrap metal prices typically peak during summer months and economic upswings
- Collect multiple quotes: Contact at least 3-5 scrap yards in your area for competitive offers
- Keep your vehicle complete: Cars with all metal components intact bring higher prices Consider dismantling strategically: Separate and sell high-value metals like copper and aluminum
- Remove non-metal components: Clean out personal items and remove plastic parts
- Negotiate transportation: Ask if free towing is available or include it in price negotiations
- Check for price matching: Some yards will match or beat competitors' offers
- Verify weight calculations: Ensure your vehicle is weighed accurately at the yard
Remember that scrap car prices fluctuate based on global metal markets, regional demand, and seasonal factors. Check current market rates before selling to ensure you receive a fair offer.
Scrap Value vs. Junk Car Value: What's the Difference?
Scrap value is the amount you can receive for recycling your car's metal content, while junk car value is what you'll get when selling a complete vehicle to a junkyard, including its parts. Understanding this difference can help you maximize your car's worth.
Scrap Value
- Sum of deregistration value and body value
- Based on metal recycling rates
- Transportation costs affect final price
- Minimal paperwork required
- Quick processing time
Junk Car Value
- Includes resale value of usable parts
- Considers vehicle's completeness
- Values rare or in-demand components
- Requires proper documentation
- May take longer to process
Your car might be worth significantly more as a junk vehicle than for scrap! See how much junk cars are worth →
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 $400, 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.