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Junkyard vs. cash for cars: where to sell a junk car

"Junkyard" gets searched thousands of times a month in the Denver area, but most of those searches are from people looking for cheap used parts, not people selling a car. If you are on the selling side, it helps to know how the different businesses work.

Pile of old cars stacked at an auto salvage yard

U-pull yards

Self-service yards let customers walk the rows and pull their own parts. They buy cars to stock those rows. Some will buy directly from the public, but you may need to get the car there yourself or pay for a tow.

Full-service salvage and auto recyclers

These businesses dismantle cars, sell tested parts and send the rest to be shredded and recycled. Many buy vehicles directly and arrange pickup.

Cash-for-cars buyers

These are often tow operators or recyclers who come to you, make an offer based on the car's description, and tow it away when you accept. The convenience is the main draw: no towing bill, no trip across town, and no need to get the car running.

Which is better?

If the car can be driven and you have time, calling a few yards and comparing offers may get you a little more.
If the car does not run, a buyer who includes pickup usually comes out ahead once you count the cost of a tow.
If the car still runs well, a private sale or trade-in may pay more than either. See selling a car in any condition.

Questions to ask any buyer

Is pickup included, and is there any fee deducted at pickup?
What will change the offer when you see the car?
How and when will I be paid?
What paperwork do you need from me?

Watch out for

Offers that drop sharply at pickup without a clear reason, buyers who will not put a number in writing, and anyone asking you to sign the title before you are paid. The selling guide covers paperwork.