Common Misconceptions About Selling Scrap Cars in South Africa - What Owners Need to Know

Overview: Separating fact from fiction about selling scrap cars

There are many misconceptions about selling scrap cars in South Africa. Owners are often unsure whether they should repair, list privately, or sell to a buyer that purchases vehicles in any condition. This guide explains common myths, how the scrap/salvage market actually works in SA, and practical steps you can take to get a fair, transparent outcome when you sell a non-running, accident-written-off or heavily damaged vehicle.

Myth 1 - Scrap cars are worthless

Reality: Even heavily damaged cars have value because parts, catalytic converters, wheels and salvageable systems can be resold. The exact value depends on make, model, year and the nature of the damage. Selling to a specialist who understands the salvage market typically yields a more competitive cash offer than selling parts separately.

Myth 2 - Selling privately gets you more money

Reality: Private sales for scrap or non-running vehicles often stall because buyers worry about towing, paperwork and hidden faults. A specialist buyer removes those friction points - they provide free towing, handle deregistration and complete the paperwork, which can be faster and lower risk for owners.

When to sell vs repair

Deciding whether to repair or sell a scrap car depends on estimated repair cost, remaining vehicle value, safety and intended use. If repair costs are a large proportion of the car's market value, selling is usually the more practical option. Fleet owners and private sellers in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban often choose to sell when downtime or repair logistics outweigh potential resale gains.

Repair cost vs value retained (typical)

Note: percentages are indicative estimates for South Africa and will vary by vehicle, age and market demand. For a fast, obligation-free view of your car’s status, see our explanation of how the process works on the About / How it works page.

Damage types vs typical offer impact

How the process works when you sell a scrap car

A transparent process removes many of the myths about selling scrap cars. Typical steps are: upload details and photos, receive an offer based on condition and market demand, accept if it fits your needs, paperwork is completed on your behalf, and the vehicle is collected via free towing. This streamlined workflow is why many owners across Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban choose a specialist buyer instead of a lengthy private sale.

Legal & paperwork in South Africa

South African vehicle transfers and deregistration must follow official procedures. When you sell a scrap car you should confirm the buyer will handle these steps: transfer of ownership where required, deregistration for written-off vehicles if applicable, and settlement coordination if the vehicle is under finance. Reputable buyers will provide a clear bill of sale, handle administration and give you confirmation once deregistration or transfer is completed.

Tips to maximise your offer

• Take clear photos from multiple angles, including close-ups of damage and the VIN/chassis plate.
• Be honest and detailed about mechanical faults and previous repairs - accurate information reduces delays and rescinded offers.
• Have ownership documents ready (proof of ownership, service history if available) to speed up settlement and transfer.
• Compare offers from specialist buyers focused on salvage to ensure you receive a competitive cash offer.

What happens after collection

After you accept an offer and the vehicle is collected with free towing, the buyer will complete administration and release payment. Processing times vary but reputable services prioritise fast payment and provide proof of deregistration or transfer. Keep paperwork copies and confirm payment to your nominated account once collection has taken place. If you need step-by-step guidance on the transaction flow, our main site explains the online valuation and collection schedule in detail.

For more context about what we buy and how the service runs, see the Sell Damaged Cars overview and our homepage for a concise summary of inclusions and what to expect from a specialist salvage buyer.

Sell Damaged Cars · Homepage

Common scenarios and practical examples

Scenario: A midsize sedan with structural front-end damage in Johannesburg. Repair may be possible but costly and time-consuming; many owners in this case choose a specialist buyer to avoid towing logistics and repair uncertainty. Fleet managers with several non-running units often prefer consolidation - selling multiple vehicles to a single salvage buyer reduces admin and recovery time.

Final checklist before you sell

• Gather ID and ownership documents.
• Take detailed photos (interior, exterior, engine bay, damage close-ups).
• Note any outstanding finance and confirm disclosure to the buyer.
• Ask the buyer for a clear timeline on towing, paperwork and payment.

Sources

• South African Department of Transport - Official guidance on vehicle registration
• Automobile Association (AA) South Africa - Advice on selling vehicles and safety considerations
• Government of South Africa - Consumer Protection Act and seller obligations
• Cars.co.za - Practical articles on written-off and salvage vehicles