How to Sell a Non-Runner Car Without a Roadworthy in South Africa

Overview: Can I sell a non-runner without a roadworthy?

Short answer: yes - but the route you choose affects price, speed and the paperwork required. Private buyers usually expect roadworthy documents to transfer and re-register a vehicle, while trade buyers, salvage yards and specialist services will buy without a valid certificate. Selling without a roadworthy is legal when correctly documented; the difference is in liability and how the transfer is managed.

How buyers typically handle non-roadworthy vehicles

• Trade/salvage buyers purchase as-is and usually arrange towing.
• Dealers or specialist services take care of the deregistration or transfer paperwork.
• Vehicles under finance require lender involvement - the outstanding balance must be handled before full transfer.

Practical example (estimate)

Example: a 2010 sedan that is a non-runner may attract significantly lower private-sale interest without a roadworthy. Trade offers depend on condition, model and salvage demand. Figures in this guide use R (South African rand) as currency and are illustrative estimates, not offers.

Repair cost vs value retained

When to sell versus repair

• Sell if repair cost approaches or exceeds current market value after repair.
• Repair if the fix is minor and the vehicle’s post-repair resale value justifies investment.
• Consider selling to a specialist buyer if you need a fast, low-hassle exit - they accept vehicles without roadworthy certificates and handle towing and admin.

If you want to understand our process for non-running cars, see our Sell Non-Running Car page for full details and examples of accepted conditions.

How the selling process works for non-runners without a roadworthy

A transparent, documented process reduces risk for both seller and buyer. Typical steps a specialist buyer follows:

1. Submit vehicle details and photos online for an initial assessment.
2. Receive an obligation-free estimate based on condition, market demand and salvage value.
3. Accept the offer; buyer arranges free towing and completes required paperwork.
4. Buyer settles finance (if any) with the lender or adjusts the payout, then finalises transfer or deregistration and pays you.

Sell Your Damaged Car explains this flow on the About / How it works page, showing how free towing and admin are included for nationwide collections across Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and surrounding areas.

Damage types vs typical offer impact

Legal & paperwork considerations in South Africa

In South Africa, transferring ownership without a roadworthy is possible when both parties agree, but the buyer may need to arrange a roadworthy before re-registering. If the vehicle is under finance, you must notify the lender; the outstanding balance usually needs settlement before the new owner can register the vehicle in their name. Buyers that specialise in salvage often manage deregistration and will explain settlement steps upfront.

Tips to maximise your offer when selling without roadworthy

• Provide clear photos of the exterior, engine bay and interior - honest descriptions build trust.
• List known faults, original keys, and service history where available.
• Disclose any finance or outstanding obligations - transparency speeds up payout and transfer.
• Get multiple non-binding estimates from reputable buyers to compare offers fairly.

If you prefer a step-by-step service that buys non-running vehicles as-is and handles collection and paperwork, learn more on our Sell Damaged Cars page or start from the homepage for an online quote.

What happens after collection?

After collection, the buyer finalises the agreed paperwork. This commonly includes a written sale agreement, settlement of any disclosed finance, and either transfer of ownership or deregistration. Payment timing varies by buyer but specialist services often release payment quickly after collection and documentation verification. Always request written confirmation of payment timing and the buyer's obligations regarding deregistration or transfer.

Sources

• South African Government - Vehicle registration guidance
• Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC)
• AA South Africa - vehicle and roadworthiness advice

Practical next steps: prepare clear photos, gather any service records, and get non-binding offers from reputable buyers. Specialist services that buy non-runners often provide free towing and handle deregistration and payment, which is helpful for sellers across Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and beyond.