How Can I Junk My Car for Cash? Here's Everything You Need to Know

"How can I junk my car for cash?"

If you have an old clunker sitting out in your driveway, you might be asking yourself that question right now. When an old car sits for an extended period of time, it can turn into an eyesore and even affect the curb appeal and value of a home.

Rather than allowing for it to sit anymore, you should strongly consider finding a buyer for it. No matter how bad of condition your car might be in, there are people out there who would be willing to take it off your hands.

These people will tow your car off your property so that you don't have to worry about looking at it anymore. They'll also give you a stack of cash for your car and allow you to profit off it.

Here's how you can junk your car for cash.

Find a Company That Specializes in Buying Junk Cars

The price of scrap metal has gone down significantly over the course of the last five years. In some places, the price is down 70% from where it was just one year ago.

But despite this, you won't have too hard of a time finding a company in your area to buy your junk car. There are thousands of these companies throughout the U.S. that are willing to pay cash for junk cars.

Conduct a simple Google search to see which junk car buyers are operating in your city or town at this time. Try to find junk car buyers that are:

• Experienced when it comes to buying junk cars from people
• Willing to provide you with the most cash possible to get their hands on your junk car
• Able to tow your car away from your home without you having to worry about a thing

Once you've found a company that you can trust, give them a call to get the process of junking your car started.

Provide the Company With Information About Your Car

In 2019, it's easier than it's ever been to junk a car for cash.

You used to have to go through the hassle of calling around to different junk car buyers to see which ones would offer you the best price. But in the digital age, selling your car to a junk car buyer is as simple as filling out an online form.

Go to your preferred junk car buyer's website and find the form that they use to make offers to their clients. To fill out the form, you'll likely need to include:

• The year your car was made
• The make and model of your car
• Your car's trim level
• Your location

The average form only takes a few minutes to fill out. By the time you're done asking, "How can I junk my car for cash?", you'll be all finished with it.

Decide Whether or Not to Accept an Offer From the Company

Once you've submitted the online form for your car, a junk car buyer will usually provide you with an offer for it within just a few minutes. In some cases, they'll even send over an offer right away.

From there, you'll be able to decide whether or not you want to accept the offer. If you're happy with it, you can take the junk car buyer up on their offer and begin the selling process. But you also have the option of thinking your decision over if you want.

You should never feel like you're being pressured into selling your car to a junk car buyer. They should give you the space you need to make a decision that you feel comfortable with.

Prepare for Your Car to Be Taken Away

If you decide that you're going to accept the offer that you received from a junk car buyer, let them know that. Then, start preparing your car to be taken away.

You don't have to clean out your car if you don't want to. But you should check to see if there are any personal possessions that you want to remove from it. Look in your glove box, underneath your seats, and in your trunk for anything you want to keep.

You should also remove the license plates that are on your car if you haven't done it already. In most states, you'll need to return these plates to the DMV when you junk your car.

Look for the Title for Your Car

You don't necessarily need to have the title for your car to sell it to a junk car buyer. There are ways for a buyer to help you get around not having a title.

The process will take longer than it should if you don't have your title handy, though. It's why you should make every effort to find it before you junk your car.

Get Paid for Your Car on the Spot and Watch It Get Towed

The best part about junking your car with help from a junk car buyer is that you won't have to wait around for weeks or even days to get paid. Your buyer should come with cash and give it to you before you sign over your car to them.

They should also come to pick up your car equipped with a tow truck. The only thing you'll need to do is sit back and watch your car leave your driveway while you count the cash you earned. 

Stop Asking "How Can I Junk My Car for Cash?" and Junk It Today

Junking a car seems like a complicated process to some people. As a result, they spend months asking, "How can I junk my car for cash?", and never get around to doing it.

Don't let this be you! Find out how much cash you can get for your junk car and make the right moves to get it off your lot. You'll love the feeling that comes along with getting rid of it and collecting cash for it.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you junk your car for cash.

How to Sell a Car in California, as Is, In 10 Easy Steps!

If you're trying to sell your car in California, chances are you're having a hard time getting rid of your vehicle. It doesn't have to be this way. You can sell your car in the Golden State quickly, and simply as is. 

Keep reading to learn more about how to sell a car in California. 

How To Sell A Car In California: Gather What You Need

There are a couple of forms, certificates, and titles you will need to obtain before selling your car in California. Here's a more detailed breakdown. 

Official DMV Transfer Forms

Any time a car changes ownership in the state of California, whether it's inherited, sold or given as a gift, the DMV will consider this a transfer. The DMV will use certain forms that document transfers. You will need to get the following transfer forms. 

California Application For Duplicate Title Form REG 227

You can simply download and print this form online here. If you have your original title, you can use that and will not need a duplicate title form.  

Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form REG 262

You cannot get this form online since it needs to be printed on special security paper. To get this form you will have to contact the DMV and request that a copy is mailed to you.

If your car is more than 10 years old, then you will not need to disclose the odometer reading. In this case, you can download and print out a Power of Attorney REG 260 (PDF) form. or a Bill of Sale REG 135 (PDF) form instead. 

Smog Certification 

You should be prepared to show a smog certification if your car is not exempt. When you sell most cars, you will need a valid certification from a STAR smog test station. To get this, find a STAR station near you here. 

You smog certification lasts for 90 days, meaning you need to complete your sale during this time. If not, you will have to get your vehicle re-tested for smog.

There are certain cars that don't need a smog test like cars that run on diesel, natural gas, electricity. Other cars that don't need a smog test include Hybrid cars, cars less than four years old, or cars made before 1975. 

Your Car Might Need An Inspection 

Your car might need to be inspected before you sell in. Most consumer guides would recommend that the buyer have their car inspected by a licensed technician before it's sold. It is usually the buyer's responsibility to pay for this inspection.  

Since it is still your car during this time, you might need to work out an arrangement to accommodate any requests from the buyer. If you don't want to go to a mechanic, you can get a mobile inspection.

You'll want to keep any documentation from this inspection, especially if the mechanic finds any concerning issues. 

Be Prepared To Pay A Minor Fees

Depending on what your situation is, there will be fees that the buyer and you might have to pay. These fees can vary, and are determined when the transfer application is sent to the DMV.

These fees can include but aren't limited to a $15 transfer fee, which is paid by the buyer. There could also be use tax, which depends on the city, this tax is also paid by the buyer. Lastly, there is a duplicate title fee. 

Other Forms You Might Need Under Certain Circumstances

For most car sales, you will only need the forms above. There are certain circumstances where you will need more forms. 

For example, if you are trying to sell a commercial vehicle, you might need a Declaration of Gross Vehicle Weight or a Combined Gross Vehicle Weight Form REG 4008. 

If your car happens to be under a lien, then you need a lienholder's release. There are sections on this form where you will need the lienholder's signature. If your name is misspelled or there is a mistake on your car title, you will need a Statement of Error or Erasure REG 101.

If your car is missing any registration sticker, a license plate, or any other important documentation, then you will need an Application for Replacement Plates, Stickers, Documents Form REG 156.

Find A Buyer 

When it comes to selling your car, you have a couple of routes you can choose. Here are some of your options. 

Sell Privately

When you sell privately, the is usually the best way to get the most money for your car. The downside here is you will need to do a lot of research, prep and legal work on your end. There's also the risk that the person you sell your car to could flake on you last minute, making you have to start this entire process again. 

Sell To A Dealership

Selling your car to a dealership is another option. This takes little to no effort on your end, and you are likely to walk away with cash in hand. The downside is you might not get the best possible deal for your car if you go this route. 

Sell To CashAutoSalvage 

This is the most efficient way to sell your car, as CashAutoSalvage will give you instant cash for your car, truck, SUV on van online or on the phone. 

Make The Sale 

Once you have an interested buyer, there is still more work to do on your end. 

Review and Sign Forms With The Buyer

This would be the time to clarify any misunderstandings or differences with the buyer. It's essential that you review and agree on the price of the car, but it's also important to go over all other forms. You want to make sure that you and buyer have a total agreement on the sale. 

You will also need to sign your car's title. This confirms that you are releasing ownership of your car. 

Disclose The Odometer Reading 

If your car is less than 10 years old, the number of miles that your car has traveled can impact the monetary value of your car. Make sure that you record your odometer reading on Reg 262, and that the buyer understands this reading. Giving a fake odometer reading is a crime. 

Submit All Forms To The DMV

When you and buyer have reviewed all the paper, you will turn all the forms over the DMV. This makes your transfer request officially registered and logged.

You will want to report this transfer to the DMV within five days on the transfer. You can do this online here. You will need the last five digits of the VIN, your car's license plate number, and the new owner's name and address. 

Sell Your Car Today  

Now that you know how to sell a car in California, start this process today. Make sure you have all the proper paperwork and forms ready and that you have a buyer ready to buy your vehicle. For more help on selling your used car, contact us today!

10 Surprising Mistakes People Make When Selling A Car

In May 2019, brand-new vehicles cost an average of $37,185. That's a $1,320 increase from the average price the year before!

With that kind of money on the line, it's no wonder more buyers are settling for used vehicles. In fact, automotive experts say that this year, the used car sector could sell up to a whopping 41 million units.

That said, if you're interested in selling a car that you've changed gears in for the past few years, now's the time to do so. There's a big market for used cars, and you should take advantage of that to get a good price on your ride.

To secure the best possible deal, however, there are some things you first need to do. Don't worry, as that's exactly what we're here to share with you. So, be sure to keep reading this guide on the best way to sell your car!

1. Forgetting to Get Rid of Everything Inside the Vehicle

This may sound obvious, but many car sellers do forget this task before handing over the keys to the new owner. To put things in perspective, a study found that the average human forgets about four things in a day. Within a year, most of the study's participants have forgotten a whopping 1,400 things.

This makes clearing out all the storage spots in your car even more important. For one, because you may have already forgotten about the stuff you placed in them in the past. Second, these items may be of sentimental or even financial value to you.

That said, be sure to check the center console, glove box, cup holders, and pockets on the doors. Look under all the seats and also check the areas between the cushions. Don't forget to pop the trunk as well, as you may have important supplies, equipment, and car fluids there.

2. Neglecting to Give the Interior a Thorough Cleaning

Dusting and vacuuming the surfaces won't be enough -- you should wash the car seat covers and mats too. Air out the inside of your vehicle too, to get rid of all the odors that have accumulated in it for years. This is one of the most important used car selling hacks you shouldn’t skip.  

The smell of freshly-laundered seat covers can help reduce the "used" qualities of your car. It may not smell like brand-new, but at least, buyers won't smell you in it. The smell of a clean car interior can make it easier for buyers to imagine themselves driving the car.

3. Skipping the Exterior Clean Up

Many car sellers regard waxing and polishing as only "sugarcoating." They think that since they're selling used, buyers expect their cars to look and feel like it.

This is not true. Appearance and cosmetics still make a huge difference. Especially since they possibly will drive your car back home (and no one wants to drive a filthy vehicle).

Plus, dirt can make your car look older and may even make buyers wonder if there are problems under the hood. Prevent this from happening by not skipping this step on how to sell your car.

4. Failure to Research the Car’s Current Ballpark Value

Coming up with your own estimate of your car's value may not be enough to get an accurate figure. If you underestimate, you may end up agreeing to a price that's lower than what your car is actually worth. Whereas overestimating can put off buyers, which could then make it harder for you to sell your car.

One of the best tips on how to sell a used car for the right price is to use Kelley Blue Book's car valuing tool. It'll give you a ballpark idea of how much your vehicle is worth based on actual market values.

5. Not Weighing in the Cost of Repairs

Granted, major repairs can boost your car's selling price. But their cost may be too much that you can't recoup your expenses even with a higher selling price.

One of the best ways on how to sell a car that needs work is to get written repair estimates. You can then use this as a negotiating tool if a buyer cites those problems to justify a lowball offer.

6. Agreeing to the First Offer or Letting a Hard Sell Sway You

Even if you need to sell a used car ASAP, don't settle for the first offer you get. Neither should you yield to a seller placing intense pressure on you. Especially not if your ride is among the most popular cars for resale, as you can get better offers for it.

7. Using Low-Quality Images to Advertise the Vehicle

81% of Americans now own smartphones, and many of these gadgets can take super nice and clear photos. If you own one of these devices, there's no excuse to post low-quality photos of your car for sale.

Of course, you shouldn't over-edit the photos that the car in them looks different from the real thing. What you want (and what buyers are looking for) is to take as many images as you can in various angles. The better the lighting, the clearer and more accurate the photographs will be.  

These include full "body" shots, images of all four sides, and photos that capture the interior. Also, if your phone can take 360-degree photos, use that to showcase your car's interiors. Don't forget to take pictures of the cargo, trunk, and what's under the hood.

8. Putting Up Inaccurate or Vague Vehicle Description on the Ads

"Selling my Ford F Series. Call or PM me for more details."

Avoid that kind of description as it won't push anyone to call you for anything. Instead, give potential buyers the crucial details, such as the make, model, year, and trim. List down all upgrades (like equipment or gadgets) that also come with your ride.

Include any detail that sets your ride apart, such as if it has low mileage or if you always park it in the garage.

9. Not Having All Vehicle Documents on Hand

Make sure you have the registration or title with you before selling your used car. Also, prove that you've taken good care of your car by showing maintenance records to buyers.

10. Being Too Trusting of All Buyers

Unfortunately, there are quite a lot of car buying scams that you need to be on the lookout for. Fake checks and overpayment ploys are just to name a few.

That's why it's crucial to screen each prospective buyer before you meet up with them. Call them (not text!) and see if you can find these people online, such as through social media or LinkedIn. Doing these can help you gauge if they're serious buyers or if they're scammers.

Follow All These Tips When Selling a Car to Secure the Best Deal

There you have it, your ultimate guide to selling a car the fast and efficient way. Best of all, these tips can help you weed out crooks while also raising your odds of getting the best deal. So, make sure you don't skip any of the hacks we've listed above!

Ready to sell your car and wondering how much you can get for it? Then start by filling out this form so you can get a quote on your ride! You can also get in touch with us if you need more help in selling your used car.

Where Is the Best Auto Junk Yards near Me? 10 Tips on How to Find the Right One

There were 272.48 million registered vehicles in the U.S. in 2017.

During the same year, reports show that each U.S. household owned an average of 1.97 vehicles!

Impressive, right?

But the bigger question is, do these households get the most out of each vehicle they own?

If you've answered no, it may be a good time to start looking for a buyer. Before you google "auto junk yards near me" though, you’d want to make sure that they buy all types of cars and not only junk. This way, you can ensure that you won’t get lowballed, especially if you have a car that’s in working condition.

How can you find the best local junk yards or car buying businesses that'll offer a fair price for your ride?

That's what we'll share in this list of tips, so keep reading to find out more! 

1. Do a Quick Google Search for “Reviews of Auto Junk Yards Near Me”

You want the nearest car junkyard or used car buying shop, but you also want to work with a reputable business. Consumer reviews are a good source of insight as to how reliable an auto salvage yard is. These customer reviews, particularly complaints, can also act as a red flag.

Pay attention to reviews that talk about timely car pick up and fair pricing. You may even find some reviews from repeat customers! Repeat customers are a solid sign of a junk yard's or a car buying shop's legitimacy and quality services.

2. Make Your Search Easier by Using a Nationwide Junk or Used Car Buying Company

A nationwide car buying company has a huge network of car junkyards and used car buyers all over the US. It's likely that they work with and operate auto salvage yards near your area.

If you need to sell your car fast, consider working with such a company. This way, you don’t have to search on your own -- the company will search for you. They'll figure out which car buyer is closest to your location and connect you to these shops. 

3. Verify That the Yard Buys All Types of Vehicles

Not all salvage yards accept junk cars, since they may not be able to salvage anything from a clunker. At the same time, not all these yards also buy used cars that are still in working condition. 

That's why it's best to confirm if you have a junk or salvage car first. The latter usually rakes in more cash since the salvage yard can find more usable parts to sell in it. If your car is still in good value, be sure that the yard or car buying shop will give you a fair market price.

To make it easier, look for yards that accept all kinds of cars, junk or not. The best ones accept everything, regardless of the make, model, year, or condition of the car. They also offer cash for junk parts, so be sure to tell them if you have a few you want to sell too.

4. Choose a Local Buyer Offering Free Towing or Pick Up Services

In the U.S., towing services can cost anywhere from $50 to $300. That's an extra expense you won't have to worry about if you choose the right junkyard.

Reliable auto junkyards near you will pick up or tow your vehicle for free. They understand that you might need all the cash you can get from your car, so they won’t add to your costs.

5. Check that the Cash for Cars Company Can Buy Your Car ASAP

If you need cash ASAP, you’d want to work with a junk or salvage yard that will buy your car in cash in the next 24 hours. In most cases, reliable yards can get you those funds within that time frame.

6. …Or That It Can Meet Your Preferred Schedule

Junk yard operators are busy folks, seeing as they scrap about 10 to 15 million vehicles every year. As busy as the best yards are, however, they can still set up a specific date and time to meet your needs.

7. Make Sure You Work Only with a Buyer Offering a Fair Quote

Reputable auto junk and salvage yards will ask you for details about your ride to find out how much to offer for it. The basics include the year, make, model, trim, and mileage you have in the car.

They will also ask for other details on vehicle condition, such as info on wheels and tires. The type of title you have and if you have it on hand will also go into calculating your quote. You also need to provide your zip code, which they'd use to check how far you are from their facility.

If you think that the offer is too low, feel free to speak your mind. If they can’t justify their quote, take that as a red flag and move on to your next prospect.

8. … And That the Yard Offers a Non-Obligatory Quotation

Speaking of quotes, only legit and reliable yards will give you a non-obligatory offer. Meaning, it’s completely up to you to accept or not. If you choose not to, they won’t ask you to pay for anything.

9. Verify the Legitimacy of the Car Buying Company by Asking about Permits

Aside from a business license, ask the yard if they have an industrial stormwater permit. It's a legal requirement for salvage yards that dismantle vehicles and sell parts. If they have this, that's proof that you're dealing with a legitimate business.

10. … And by Ensuring They Ask You for Proper Vehicle Documentation

Some states require junk and salvage yards to ask vehicle owners for the title. In other states, a copy of the registration and proof of identification will suffice. Either way, a legitimate yard must confirm vehicle ownership first before buying it.

If you encounter a junkyard or salvage yard that doesn't ask for any of these documents, take that as a red flag. It’s possible that they aren’t a registered or licensed business or that their being a “yard” is only a front. They may be car buying scammers that you should avoid at all costs.

Sell Your Junker to the Right Buyer Now

There you have it, the ultimate guide to finding the best answers to your searches for "auto junk yards near me"! So long as you follow these tips, you can locate a reputable buyer who'll pick up your ride for free. Best of all, you'll get cold, hard cash for that hunk of junk while also doing the environment some good.

Ready to get in touch with reliable auto salvage and junkyards closest to your area? If so, then fill out this short form now so you can get an instant cash offer for your car, junk or not!