What to Expect When Selling a Broken-Down Car in South Africa

Overview: Selling a Broken-Down Car

If your car has stopped running because of mechanical failure, accident damage or age, selling it to a specialist buyer is a common option. This guide explains what to expect when you sell a broken-down car in South Africa: how offers are calculated, which documents are needed, logistics like free towing and collection, and typical timelines. The goal is to help owners in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and surrounding areas make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.

Why owners choose to sell rather than repair

• Repair costs can exceed the car's market value, especially for older vehicles.
• Non-running cars accrue storage and towing costs if not moved.
• Selling to a specialist removes the hassle of private ads, test drives and arranging transport.

How buyers value a broken-down car

Specialist buyers consider make, model, year, mileage, extent of mechanical or structural damage, and current salvage demand. Location factors (ease of collection) also affect offers. Expect a transparent cash offer based on these inputs; offers vary by condition and market trends in South Africa.

Repair cost vs value retained (example estimates, South Africa)

Repair type	Typical repair cost (estimate)	Value retained after repair (approx.)
Major engine rebuild	R15,000 - R40,000	Low to moderate (depends on vehicle age)
Transmission replacement	R10,000 - R35,000	Moderate, often less than cost
Cosmetic bodywork	R4,000 - R20,000	Depends on parts and labour

These are broad ranges for South Africa and will differ by region, parts availability and labour rates. When repair costs approach or exceed the retained value, many owners choose to sell the car as-is to a specialist.

Damage types and typical impact on offers

Damage type	Typical impact on offer
Mechanical (engine/transmission)	Large reduction; non-running status lowers offer significantly
Accident / structural damage	Moderate to large reduction depending on repairability
Flood or fire damage	Significant reduction; may be treated as salvage/written-off
Cosmetic wear and tear	Smaller impact compared to mechanical or structural faults

How the selling process typically unfolds

Specialist buyers aim to make selling a broken-down car straightforward. The general steps you can expect:

1. Online submission and photos

You provide vehicle details (make, model, year, mileage), a description of the fault, and clear photos. Accurate information speeds up a fair offer.

2. Offer and decision

You receive an obligation-free cash offer based on the vehicle data. The offer will note inclusions such as free towing, paperwork handling and payment timing. Take time to compare offers but watch for unusually low bids or unclear terms.

3. Acceptance, paperwork and collection

Once you accept, the buyer arranges collection (many services offer free nationwide towing). Expect paperwork support: transfer, deregistration guidance and confirmation of payment details. If the vehicle is under finance, the buyer will explain the steps to settle or transfer the outstanding loan - do not sign over a financed vehicle without lender permission.

4. Payment and final checks

Payment timing varies but reputable buyers typically release verified payment shortly after collection or on agreed handover. Ask for a receipt and written confirmation that paperwork (including any deregistration actions) will be completed.

Legal & paperwork specifics in South Africa

• Vehicle registration document (green book) or equivalent details are required for transfer.
• If the vehicle is financed, contact your lender first - most buyers will help coordinate settlement but legal consent is necessary.
• Deregistering a written-off vehicle or noting a salvage title involves the relevant licensing authority; specialist buyers often assist with this admin.

Tips to maximise your offer

• Provide clear photos from multiple angles, including engine bay and interior.
• Be honest about mechanical and structural issues - undisclosed faults may lead to rescinded offers.
• Remove personal items and gather maintenance records if available; these can improve trust and perceived value.
• Get multiple offers if time allows, but prioritise buyers who include free towing and paperwork support.

What happens after collection

After the buyer collects the car your sale is finalised. You should receive written confirmation of the transfer and details of any deregistration or settlement completed on your behalf. Keep records of the transaction (offer, acceptance, collection note, proof of payment). If applicable, confirm with your insurer and lender that the vehicle has been transferred or settled.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Transferring ownership before getting clear payment or lender consent if the car is financed.
• Accepting offers without written terms on towing, paperwork handling and payment timing.
• Failing to remove personal belongings before collection.

Quick checklist before you sell

• Photos: multiple angles, close-ups of damage.
• Documents: registration, ID, service records, finance details.
• Bank details for payment and a preferred collection window.

Sources

• Road Traffic Management Corporation and South African registration guidance (RTMC)
• Financial Sector guidance on vehicle finance and settlements (FSB)
• South African Government: vehicle ownership and licensing information

For more detail on selling non-running vehicles or damaged cars, see the Sell Non-Running Car and Sell Damaged Cars pages, and review advice on How to Avoid Being Scammed.