USA Scrap Car Value Calculator
Estimate Low / Typical / High junk car payout using weight, market rates, and valuable scrap parts.
1) Vehicle → 2) Parts → 3) Location → Calculate
Vehicle
Parts
Location
If we don't recognize your exact model/year weight, we’ll estimate by vehicle type.
For best accuracy, enter weight from your door-jamb sticker or a spec sheet.
Catalytic converter present
Biggest swing item (platinum/palladium/rhodium).
Battery present
Lead-acid battery typically adds a small payout.
Engine present
Missing engine usually reduces offers (incomplete car).
Transmission present
Also affects “complete car” status.
Wheels on vehicle
Missing wheels often lowers yard pricing.
Alloy (aluminum) wheels
Often adds value vs steel wheels.
Alternator
Contains copper windings (small add-on).
Starter motor
Contains copper (small add-on).
Radiator / condenser
Often aluminum; small add-on if itemized.
A/C compressor
Metal + copper; small add-on if itemized.
Wiring harness
Copper inside (usually included, optional add-on).
Stripped shell / missing major parts
Use if it’s basically a rolling shell.
If you set count to 0, it overrides “present”.
Most yards mainly pay by weight; itemized mode is optional for detailed estimates.
We use ZIP to estimate a regional multiplier (low/typical/high).
If your local yard is paying unusually low/high, override here.
Running can slightly help if a buyer wants parts, but scrap is mostly weight-based.
If a yard told you “$___ per ton”, enter it here for accuracy.
Scrap yard = mostly weight × $/ton. Junk car buyer may pay more if parts are reusable.
Disclaimer: this tool provides estimates only. Actual offers vary by yard, condition, local demand, and documentation rules.