Sell your damaged car for cash – we pay the best prices for damaged cars, with free collection

How to Sell my Damaged Car: What It Means & How It Works

   
       

If you’re searching “sell damaged car”, chances are your vehicle isn’t in perfect shape and you’re wondering whether anyone will still buy it. The good news is that selling a damaged car in the UK is straightforward, even if it won’t drive, has failed its MOT, or has serious mechanical faults.

This guide explains what selling a damaged car actually means, how the process works, what affects your offer, and how to sell legally with no stress.

What “Sell Damaged Car” Means

When people say they want to sell a damaged car, they usually mean selling a vehicle that’s no longer suitable for private sale.

That could be because:

  • Repairs cost more than the car is worth
  • The car has been declared a write-off category
  • The vehicle is a non-runner
  • It won’t pass an MOT

Selling a damaged car doesn’t mean giving it away for nothing. Many damaged vehicles still have value through salvage, parts reuse, or recycling. Cash For Cars buys damaged cars directly, removing the need to fix, advertise, or negotiate with private buyers.

How Selling A Damaged Car Works (Step By Step)

 

1. Get An Instant Online Quote

Start by getting a free online quote. You’ll need:

  • Your registration number
  • Your postcode
  • Basic details about the damage
  • Optional photos showing the condition

This information helps generate your offer accurately. With Cash For Cars, you can get a quote for your vehicle in under 60 seconds.

2. Accept Your Offer And Book Collection

If you’re happy with your offer, you can accept it instantly.

At this stage, you’ll be asked to:

  • Confirm your ID
  • Provide the V5C logbook (if available)
  • Answer a few condition checks

You can then arrange a FREE home collection or choose to drop the vehicle at a local location for a bonus payment.

3. Vehicle Handover And DVLA Notification

On collection day, the vehicle is checked and taken away.

If the car is beyond repair and heading for scrap, it will be sent to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). If scrapped, the ATF issues a Certificate of Destruction (CoD), confirming the vehicle has been legally disposed of.

You must also notify the DVLA that you’re no longer the keeper. This protects you from future tax or penalty issues.

4. Get Paid

Payment is fast and secure. Cash For Cars provides instant payment, usually via same-day bank transfer, with cash in your bank account within minutes of collection.

No delays. No fees. No surprises.

What Affects Your Offer For A Damaged Car

Several factors determine how much a damaged car is worth.

Scrap Value And Metal Prices

If the car is being scrapped, weight and current scrap metal prices matter. These can change year to year, affecting offers for end-of-life vehicles.

Make, Model, And Mileage

Some vehicles hold more value due to demand for parts. Even with damage, popular models can be worth more for salvage.

Condition And Faults

Details that affect your offer include:

  • Engine or gearbox faults
  • Accident or structural damage
  • Whether the car starts or moves
  • Missing keys
  • Tyre and wheel condition

A recent diagnostic report can help clarify fault severity, but it’s not required.

Location And Collection Distance

Your location can influence transport costs. Cash For Cars operates nationwide, with regional collection options across the UK.

Legal And Compliance Requirements In The UK

Selling a damaged or no-MOT car is legal, but there are responsibilities.

  • The DVLA must be notified of keeper changes
  • SORN vehicles remain your responsibility until sold
  • Scrapped cars must go through an ATF
  • A Certificate of Destruction confirms legal scrappage

If the car is insured, you should also notify your insurer once the sale is complete.

Full disclosure of damage is important. It protects you and ensures the sale goes smoothly.

FAQs

Can I sell a car with major engine or gearbox faults?

Yes. Cars with serious engine or gearbox faults still have value through salvage or recycling.

Can you buy a non-runner or no-MOT car?

Yes. Cash For Cars buys non-runners and vehicles without a valid MOT and offers free collection.

What paperwork do I need if the car is a write-off?

You’ll usually need ID and the V5C logbook. If the car is being scrapped, an ATF will issue a Certificate of Destruction.

Ready to sell? Get a fast quote in under 60 seconds with Cash For Cars, then book FREE collection or local drop-off and receive instant payment with no fees.