How to Earn from Selling Non-Running Vehicles in South Africa

Overview: the market for non-running vehicles

There is steady demand in the South African salvage and parts market for non-running cars. Buyers include dismantlers, rebuild shops and exporters who value usable parts, body shells and salvageable engines. Selling rather than storing or attempting uncertain repairs reduces carrying costs (storage, insurance, and further deterioration) and provides immediate liquidity. Learn more about how specialist buyers operate on our About / How it works page.

Key factors that determine what you can earn

• Vehicle age, make and model - higher-demand makes retain better salvage value.
• Extent and type of mechanical or structural damage - some faults reduce offers more than others.
• Completeness - vehicles with intact interiors, electronics and wheels fetch more from parts buyers.
• Documentation and legal status - clear title and deregistration options make transactions smoother.

Repair cost vs value retained (estimate)

Use this quick table to judge when selling a non-running vehicle is likely to be more economical than repairing it. Figures are illustrative and given in South African rand (R); actual costs vary by workshop, region and vehicle.

If the repair cost approaches or exceeds expected retained value plus additional hidden costs (parts sourcing, diagnostic time), selling to a specialist is often the more financially sensible option.

When to sell versus when to repair

Deciding whether to repair or sell depends on personal circumstances and vehicle economics. Consider the following scenarios:

• You need cash quickly or must remove a vehicle from private property - selling is faster.
• Repair costs are near or exceed the car’s market value after repair - selling is usually better.
• Vehicle has sentimental value or rare parts - repair or careful parting may be worthwhile.

For South African small-fleet owners, downtime and logistic costs factor heavily. Specialist buyers provide options that reduce admin and towing burdens; learn more on the Sell Non-Running Car page.

How the selling process works (practical steps)

A reliable process delivers predictable results. Typical steps you will encounter when you choose to sell a non-running vehicle to a specialist buyer are:

• Submit vehicle details and clear photos online - include make, model, year, mileage and damage description.
• Receive an obligation-free assessment or offer based on condition and salvage demand.
• If accepted, arrange a collection time; many buyers provide free towing nationwide.
• Paperwork is completed (title transfer or deregistration) and payment is finalised after collection.

Damage types vs typical offer impact (qualitative)

Legal and paperwork considerations in South Africa

Transferring a non-running vehicle must follow South African regulations. Common points to confirm with a buyer:

• Clear proof of ownership and ID; if the vehicle is under finance, obtain the lender’s settlement information.
• Deregistration or title transfer: specialist buyers often assist with deregistration and municipal paperwork to reduce hassle.
• VAT and tax implications for businesses - fleet disposals should be recorded correctly for bookkeeping.

For more on the types of vehicles we buy and how the process is handled, see our Sell Damaged Cars overview and the homepage for service coverage details.

What happens after collection

After collection, buyers typically remove reusable parts, confirm paperwork and complete payment. Many buyers operating nationally include free towing and handle deregistration, which reduces hassle for sellers in metros and smaller towns alike. If you are managing multiple vehicles, request consolidated collection and documentation to streamline the process.

Sources

• South African Department of Transport - official guidance on vehicle registration and administration
• AA South Africa - advice on selling written-off and damaged vehicles
• Cars.co.za - market articles and salvage trends in South Africa