People often assume that scrapping your vehicle is the only feasible option when faced with a non-running car - but that’s not true. Scrapyards are only interested in the worth of your vehicle as scrap metal, meaning you won’t get much bang for your buck at the end of the transaction.
Private car sales are another option, but that comes with its own set of headaches and safety concerns!
How Can You Recover More Value From Your Vehicle?
Instead of heading straight for the scrapyard or private sales, we suggest selling your non-running car to us, Sell Your Damaged Car! The largest salvage auctioneer in South Africa. We look beyond your car’s scrap metal value to the potential for spare parts, repairs, or as a project car.
We’ll also handle the towing and disposal fees, leaving you with even more in the bank and helping you recover more of your investment.
In short, selling a non-running car to us allows you to turn an otherwise idle vehicle into valuable funds.
Why People Choose to Sell Non-Running Cars With Us
- We buy non-running cars in any condition.
- Our process is designed for your convenience — fast, safe, and easy.
- Within 24 hours, you will receive an obligation-free offer, putting you in control of the selling process.
- We tow your non-running vehicle away for free, taking the stress out of transportation.
- We handle all the paperwork, streamlining the selling experience for you.
- Best of all, you get paid instant cash! No delays, no complications.
How to sell your non running car and get a better deal online
Simply follow our fast, safe, and easy online process when selling a non-running car:
- Fill in your details on our online form.
- Upload some photos of your non-running car.
- Stay close to your phone; we’ll be in touch for more details.
- Wait for the offer from our team.
- Take your cash, and leave us a review.
Factor |
Scrapyard |
Sell Your Damaged Car (SYDC) |
Sell Your Damaged Car (SYDC) |
Pays for the vehicle’s metal weight. |
Buys cars for resale, repair, or parts value. |
Offer Value |
Low — based on scrap metal price per kilogram. |
Higher — considers parts, repair potential, and full car value. |
Condition Accepted |
Usually accepts vehicles stripped of parts or engines. |
Accepts all vehicles — damaged, non-running, or complete. |
Towing & Collection |
Usually at your own cost. |
Free towing and collection across South Africa. |
Paperwork Handling |
Minimal help — owner must manage deregistration and proof of sale. |
Full support with deregistration, ownership transfer, and compliance. |
Payment Speed |
Often delayed or cash-only with limited proof of sale. |
Instant EFT or verified cash payment — same day. |
Safety & Transparency |
Informal process, limited buyer protection. |
Secure, registered company with verified offers and contracts. |
Environmental Compliance |
May not recycle responsibly. |
Partners with licensed recyclers and follows ethical disposal practices. |
Best For |
Cars beyond repair or stripped for scrap. |
Non-running or damaged cars that still have resale or parts value. |
FAQs About Scrapping vs Selling a Non-Running Car in South Africa
Q: What is the best way to sell a car that doesn’t run?
A: The best way to sell a non-running car is to work with a trusted damaged-car buyer like Sell Your Damaged Car. Unlike scrapyards, which only pay for metal weight, professional buyers assess the car’s parts, repair potential, and market demand — giving you a higher cash offer. You can get a free valuation online, and the buyer usually handles towing, paperwork, and payment, making the process fast and risk-free.
Q: How to get rid of a dead car?
A: You have three main options: scrap it, sell it, or donate it. Scrapping is quick but typically pays the least. Donating can be rewarding but offers no financial return. Selling your non-running car to a damaged-car specialist like Sell Your Damaged Car gives you the best of both worlds — it’s hassle-free, legal, and pays instant cash while they handle the collection and deregistration for you.
Q: What do you do with a car that doesn’t run anymore?
A: If your car no longer starts or moves, start by determining whether the repair costs outweigh its resale value. If it’s not worth fixing, selling it to a professional damaged-car buyer is often the smartest move. These buyers have networks for parts and rebuilds, so even if your car can’t drive, it still holds value. Sell Your Damaged Car offers free towing and fast payouts across South Africa, turning a dead car into money in your pocket.