Sell a Car with Engine Problems in Durban - Fast Cash & Free Towing

Sell a car with engine problems - Durban owners guide

Engine failure, blowing smoke, or a no-start condition can make a vehicle a major time and cost burden. For many Durban owners-private sellers and small business fleets alike-selling the vehicle as-is to a specialist buyer is a practical alternative to costly repairs or long, uncertain private sales. We buy cars in any condition, arrange free towing in Durban and surrounds, and manage the paperwork so you don’t have to.

When selling is usually the smarter choice

Consider selling if repair estimates are high relative to the car’s trade value, if the vehicle is non-running, or if downtime affects your daily life or business. Selling avoids ongoing costs like storage, further mechanical deterioration, and recurring towing or diagnostic fees.

Common engine problems we see in Durban

• Seized or locked engines after overheating
• Major internal failures (bearing or piston damage)
• Timing-chain or timing-belt failures causing extensive damage
• Severe oil contamination or coolant mixing
• Intermittent starting or electrical faults linked to engine management

Repair cost vs value - quick reference

These ranges are estimates for South Africa and will vary by make, model and parts availability. If repair costs approach or exceed likely resale value, selling as-is is often the lower-risk option.

To understand how our service works and what we buy, see our Sell Damaged Cars overview and the Sell Non-Running Car page for non-starters. These pages explain which details and photos speed up valuation.

How our Durban process makes selling simple

The typical flow is quick: you upload vehicle details and photos, we provide a transparent cash offer, and if you accept we arrange free towing and handle the transfer paperwork including deregistration. Our service is available across Durban and surrounding areas, from the city centre to Umlazi and the Bluff.

Step-by-step breakdown

1. Upload vehicle details and clear photos using our form.
2. Receive an obligation-free, transparent cash offer based on condition and salvage demand.
3. Accept the offer and select a convenient collection time; we provide free towing across Durban.
4. We complete paperwork (including deregistration where applicable) and release payment quickly after collection.

Damage types vs typical offer impact

We serve private sellers and small fleets across KwaZulu-Natal. If you want details on how we manage collections or the paperwork process, read our About / How it works page for full process information.

Ready to sell? Quick actions

• Get your free quote by uploading vehicle details and photos.
• Upload vehicle details in under a few minutes - make, model, year, mileage and clear engine photos help.
• Confirm collection at a time that suits you; towing in Durban is free.
• Get paid fast after we collect and verify the vehicle and documents.

If your car is under finance, tell us during the quote stage - we explain how settlements are handled and what documents are needed. For more detail on selling a non-running vehicle, see our Sell Non-Running Car page.

Sources

• South African salvage and vehicle disposal guidance (example resource)
• SAPS information on vehicle registration and transfer (official)
• Guidance on transport & mobility considerations in South Africa (contextual resource)