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Find out how to legally sell your broken car without a roadworthy certificate in South Africa. Free towing, paperwork, and no hidden requirements. Learn the full process now.
In South Africa, selling a broken, accident-damaged, or non-running car can seem daunting, especially if you lack a valid roadworthy certificate. Fortunately, it is both legal and straightforward to sell a car without roadworthy-provided you follow the correct steps and inform the buyer of the vehicle's true condition. Services like Sell Your Damaged Car specialise in purchasing vehicles "as is," making the process smooth for private owners and small businesses alike across Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and all surrounding regions.
A roadworthy certificate verifies that a vehicle is fit for use on public roads. It is essential for title transfers if the car is to remain registered for normal driving. When selling a broken or salvage vehicle, especially to a specialist buyer, a current roadworthy is not needed-the focus shifts to transparent disclosure and proper deregistration.
Before investing in costly repairs or a new roadworthy test, consider whether selling might be more sensible. Repairing a seriously damaged car can cost more than its resale value. Here's a quick comparison:
| Damage Type | Estimated Repair Cost | Market Value After Repairs |
|---|---|---|
| Engine failure | R30,000 - R70,000 | R50,000 - R90,000 |
| Major accident | R40,000 - R120,000 | R80,000 - R130,000 |
| Blown gearbox | R25,000 - R60,000 | R45,000 - R85,000 |
Values above are typical for the South African market and may vary by model - source: insurance and repair industry estimates.
Selling your broken car without a roadworthy is straightforward with Sell Your Damaged Car. Here's an overview:
For cars sold without roadworthy, buyers like Sell Your Damaged Car do not require you to obtain one. Instead, the vehicle will be deregistered (moved to salvage/non-runner status) or the new owner will assume responsibility for future repairs and compliance. You must notify the traffic department of the change of ownership or deregistration-this is handled for you if you use a specialist buyer.
If your broken car is financed, notify your bank. The finance institution must settle the outstanding balance, and may need to approve the sale. Sell Your Damaged Car can guide you through the necessary steps, ensuring all regulations are respected and the process is legal.
| Damage Type | Typical Impact on Offer |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic (panels, lights, trim) | Low to moderate (often minor reduction) |
| Mechanical only (engine, gearbox) | Moderate to significant |
| Structural/chassis or total write-off | Significant (salvage value only) |
Offers are based on a fair, market-driven assessment of potential parts or salvage value. Every car is evaluated individually.
After your broken car is collected, deregistration or title transfer is processed as agreed. Sell Your Damaged Car ensures you are provided with proof, helping you avoid future liabilities. Payment is confirmed, and you are no longer responsible for fees, storage, speeding fines, or e-toll. The vehicle is then handled for salvage, dismantling, or auction in line with legal requirements of South Africa's automotive market.
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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