Frequently Asked Questions About Scrap Car Sales in South Africa

Overview: common questions about scrap car sales

Frequently asked questions about scrap car sales cover what a scrap car is, how offers are calculated, and what you must do to transfer ownership. Whether your vehicle is accident-damaged, non-running, flood-affected or written off, understanding the basics helps you decide if selling for scrap or salvage is the right choice. This FAQ uses South African examples and currency (R) and explains how Sell Your Damaged Car makes selling simpler with free towing, paperwork assistance and nationwide collection.

When should I sell a scrap car instead of repairing it?

If estimated repair costs exceed a significant portion of the vehicle's market value, or the car is declared an insurer write-off, selling as scrap is often faster and lower risk. Consider time, storage costs and whether replacement parts are hard to source. For help assessing options, see our company process on the About / How it works page.

How do buyers value a scrap car?

Buyers typically consider the vehicle's make, model, year, salvageable parts, the extent of damage, and prevailing demand in the local salvage market. Location affects logistics costs; nationwide services that offer free towing reduce the seller's expense. Offers are transparent and based on the vehicle data and photos you provide.

Repair cost vs value retained

Damage types and typical offer impact

How the scrap car sale process works (step-by-step)

A standard, reputable process reduces delays and risk. Typical steps are: submit vehicle details and photos, receive an obligation-free offer, accept or decline, and arrange collection. Services that handle paperwork and provide free towing across South Africa simplify the sale for owners in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and surrounding regions.

What information buyers usually need

• Make, model, year and current mileage
• Description of damage and photos
• VIN/chassis number and proof of ownership

If you have questions about non-running cars, our dedicated explanation on selling non-running vehicles gives extra context: Sell Non-Running Car.

Legal & paperwork in South Africa

Common legal questions include how to transfer ownership, deregister a vehicle, and what to do if the car is under finance. In South Africa, you must provide a completed change-of-ownership or written sale agreement and notify the relevant registering authority. Reputable buyers will assist with deregistration and provide documentation proving payment and collection.

Vehicles under finance or with outstanding loans

If your vehicle has outstanding finance, inform the buyer early. Many buyers can coordinate settlement with the lender as part of the sale, but procedures vary. Always get written confirmation showing the lender has been paid and the debt settled before finalising the transaction.

Tips to maximise your scrap car offer

• Supply clear, recent photos (interior, engine, VIN and damage areas).
• Provide service records and spare keys if available; these can increase offers.
• Be honest about damage and missing parts to avoid offer withdrawal later.

What happens after collection?

After the vehicle is collected, the buyer typically completes the paperwork (including transfer or deregistration) and reconciles payment. Expect a written receipt and confirmation of payment. For services that manage the entire process and aim to release near-instant payment upon verification, see the main site for process details: Sell Your Damaged Car homepage.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Accepting an offer without written terms - insist on clear paperwork and payment proof.
• Failing to provide VIN or ownership documents - this delays deregistration.
• Not checking buyer credentials - verify reviews and company details.

What else should I know about the salvage market in SA?

Salvage demand varies by region and vehicle type; parts for popular models often fetch higher prices. Nationwide services remove regional friction by offering free collection and centralised valuation. Offers depend on condition, market demand and transport costs.

Sources

• Department of Transport - Government information on vehicle registration and transfer
• Automobile Association of South Africa - Guidance on vehicle condition, repairs and ownership
• National Consumer Commission - Consumer rights for vehicle sales and dispute guidance
• South African Police Service - Vehicle-related reporting and theft prevention information