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Practical Durban guide: when to sell vs repair, how valuations work, required paperwork in South Africa, tips to maximise offers, and what happens after collection.
When repair costs are high, selling your non-running car is often more economical.
Clear photos and registration details speed up accurate offers and collection.
Specialist buyers arrange free towing from Durban and handle paperwork.
If your vehicle won't start, has major mechanical faults, or was written off after an accident, you still have options in Durban. Selling a non-running car to a specialist buyer saves time, avoids towing costs and removes the uncertainty of private sales. This guide explains when selling is preferable to repairing, how valuations work in South Africa, and the practical steps to prepare your car for sale in Durban.
Deciding whether to repair or sell depends on the estimated repair cost, the vehicle's pre-damage market value, and your time or cash available. Common reasons owners choose to sell:
| Repair cost (estimate) | Likely retained value after repair | Seller consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Less than R5,000 | High - close to pre-fault market value | Repair often sensible if no hidden faults |
| R5,000 - R20,000 | Moderate - depends on vehicle age and model | Compare repair quote vs cash offer for non-running sale |
| Over R20,000 | Often low - repair may not recover costs | Selling to a specialist is usually preferable |
Local note: Durban owners often face additional towing and storage charges at coastal impound yards. A specialist buyer offering free collection removes that immediate expense.
Valuations for non-running vehicles focus on make/model/year, visible damage, salvageable components demand, and transport cost to the buyer. Buyers consider the local Durban market, parts demand in KwaZulu-Natal, and current scrap or salvage prices. To speed up an accurate valuation, prepare clear photos, the vehicle registration details, and a concise description of faults.
For more on how the online process works and what to expect from professional buyers, see our About / How it works page.
| Damage type | Typical impact on offers |
|---|---|
| Mechanical failure (engine, gearbox) | Offers reduced; high parts value may offset some loss |
| Accident structural damage | Significant negative impact if structural; cosmetic less so |
| Flood or water damage | Major reduction due to electrical and corrosion risks |
| Non-starter with minor faults | Moderate reduction; parts market may buoy offers |
If you want a Durban-specific route to sell a non-running car, check our Sell Non-Running Car page for a clear online form and required photos.
Photograph multiple angles: front, rear, interior, engine bay (if safe), and close-ups of visible damage. Have the vehicle registration / licence disc details ready, plus any service history or finance information. Clear documentation speeds up valuation and helps avoid follow-up queries.
Use the online form to give make, model, year, odometer reading and a short description of faults. Specialist buyers typically return a cash offer quickly based on the information provided. For a full company overview, visit our homepage.
If you accept, the buyer arranges free towing from your Durban location. Confirm a collection time and ensure you have the necessary documents ready for transfer. Buyers who offer free nationwide towing remove the need for you to organise transport.
When selling a vehicle in South Africa, even a non-running one, clear and correct documentation is essential. Key considerations:
For guidance on the transfer and how buyers typically manage paperwork, see our Sell Damaged Cars page and the company information on the About / How it works page.
After the vehicle is collected, reputable buyers handle the required admin, which typically includes transfer paperwork, deregistration if necessary, and payment. Payment methods vary; confirm the timing and method (bank transfer details) before collection. Keep a record of the signed sale agreement and transfer documents for your records.
| Step | Typical timing |
|---|---|
| Payment after collection | Often same day or within 48 hours (confirm with buyer) |
| Transfer / deregistration paperwork | Varies; buyer usually completes within days to weeks |
Example situations where selling may be the faster route: a car that failed its last service with a costly engine diagnosis, a vehicle damaged in a KZN storm causing flooding, or a small business fleet vehicle that is non-operational and must be replaced quickly. In these cases, converting the asset to cash and upgrading or replacing the vehicle can be the most economical choice.
Seasoned automotive specialists dedicated to helping you turn your damaged or non-running vehicle into cash fast and hassle-free.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Product availability, pricing, and specifications are subject to change. Always verify current details on the retailer's website before making a purchase. We may earn affiliate commissions from qualifying purchases.
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