Trade, sell, or donate? Over 25 tons of material is recycled from old vehicles each year in the U.S.

There are options available whether you need to dispose of a vehicle quickly or need some extra cash. Don’t leave that old clunker sitting in your yard for years.

Read below for some tips on how to dispose of a car.

1. Sell It 

If you don’t need to dispose of a vehicle quickly and it’s in decent shape with a high resale value, selling is your most profitable option.

Selling the car by yourself is the most amount of work. Here’s what you need to sell a car:

• You need your car title which gives you the legal right to sell your vehicle. Visit the DMV online and check with your state laws to see if you need any additional paperwork.
• Order a vehicle report.
• Set an asking price. If you have no idea what your car is worth, look at the price of similar cars in your area, or check online.
• Clean your car inside and out and do some light maintenance.
• Start advertising. Take attractive photos and post online with a detailed description.

2. Junk It

Get rid of a car quickly with a junk car removal service. Find these services online or through “we buy junk cars” ads.

Depending on your location and the type of car you have, the car removal service pays you for the car and takes it away. In other situations, the car is removed for free with no payment or you pay a fee for removal.

3. Trade-In

Instead of selling your car, trade it in while buying a new or pre-owned vehicle.

Car trade-ins are quick and easy. If you plan to buy or lease a car, visit a dealership and ask if they’re willing to trade your old car. Generally, the amount from your old car isn’t taken off but goes to your new car.

4. Donate to Charity

Before donating your car, do your research. Pick a 501(c)(3) charity that allows for federal tax exemption. It’s regulated by the U.S. Department of Treasury through the IRS.

Charities sell donated vehicles an use the proceeds for funding of charitable programs, use the donated vehicle, or make improvements to the vehicle before selling.

5. Part Your Car

Someone may not want the whole thing but that doesn’t mean they aren’t willing to pay for a few parts. If you have an older car or it’s popular with enthusiasts, selling parts won’t be a problem.

You need to know how to remove car parts, the right tools, and have the space for storage. Visit online auctions and message boards to find potential buyers.

Learn How to Dispose of a Car Fast

If you need extra money or if your old car needs to go, there are several ways to approach getting rid of a car. Now that you know how to dispose of a car, start selling, trading, or donating!

Interested in reading more? Check out our other articles on our blog.