Scrap Car vs. Trade-In vs. Private Sale

When a car is old or damaged, you usually have three ways to get rid of it. Each suits a different situation.

Scrapping

Best when the car no longer runs, is badly damaged, or costs more to repair than it is worth. It is fast, and many buyers include free towing.

Trade-in

Convenient if you are buying another vehicle from the same dealer, but the value offered for a very old car is often low.

Private sale

Can bring the highest price for a car that still runs well, but it takes time, calls and test drives, and you carry the risk of the sale.