If your car is no longer working, you might think it has no value. Completely non-working cars can still bring you some extra cash. The key is to determine how to maximize the best possible value. No matter whether you call it a junk car, scrap car, or non-running vehicle, there are smart ways to sell it and to maximize your money from it.
This guide will outline the best steps to take to sell your scrap car for cash in the UAE. It will cover where to sell it, how to figure its worth, and how to avoid mistakes.
Understanding the Worth of a Dead Car
A dead car is a car that doesn't run or is too expensive to repair. While it may seem like just a hunk of metal with no value, it has value in other ways:
- Value of scrap metal - Cars actually have steel, aluminum, and other recyclable materials inside them.
- Value of parts - Most parts of a vehicle, like engines, gearboxes, and electronics, can be reused.
- Resale to scrap car buyers - Businesses buy dead cars for cash in order to dismantle and recycle them.
If you understand the value of a dead car, you can bargain better and make sure you are not selling yourself short.
Step 1: Determine your Car’s Value
You will want to know what your junk car is worth before making it available for sale.
Factors That Contribute to the Price:
- Car make, model, and year – There are often multiple models with high demand for parts.
- Condition of parts – There may still be working parts that may have value even though the engine is dead.
- Supply & demand – You may get higher prices for some car models in the UAE scrap market.
💡 Tip: You can use an online car valuation tool or contact three or more cash car buyers to get price quotes instantly.
Step 2: Select the Best Selling Method:
There are multiple ways to sell a dead car in the UAE, and each way will likely yield a different return on your dead vehicle.
1. Scrap Car Buyers:
Companies like MyScrapCars will buy dead, junk, or scrap cars for cash, typically with free towing and no paperwork!
Pros:
- You get cash immediately.
- You do not need to get the car repaired.
- They make sure the title is transferred legally.
Cons:
The price will depend mostly on the scrap value.
2. Sell as Parts:
If you know what to do mechanically, you will probably make more money and sell parts of the vehicle.
Pros:
The total value will be higher than selling a dead vehicle for scrap.
Cons:
- Time-consuming.
- Tools and give yourself space to take it all apart.
3. Trade-In at a Dealer
Some dealers accept dead cars as trade-ins when you buy a new vehicle.
Pros:
Convenient if you are buying a new vehicle.
Cons:
It is worth much less than if you sold it directly to scrapers.
Step 3: Get Your Car Ready to Sell
Even a dead car could appear to be more valuable if you clean it up before you sell it.
- 1. Remove personal possessions – Check in the glove compartment, in the trunk, and under the seats.
- 2. Collect paperwork – Car registration, Emirates ID, and any other relevant documentation.
- 3. Remove any valuables – If you have a sound system, alloy rims, or custom seats, sell them separately since they are worth much more than selling a dead car.
Case Study: How Ahmed Bin Waleed Sold His Dead Car for The Most Money
Ahmed Bin Waleed had a 2010 Toyota Corolla that had engine failure. A repair quote for over AED 8,000 would mean the repairs exceeded the value of the car. After trying to trade in his useless car and receiving multiple value-reducing offers, Ahmed Bin Waleed endeavored to sell his dead useless car. He received an offer of AED 2,000 from a local garage.
Ahmed Bin Waleed didn’t take the first offer, but called three different scrap car buyers in Dubai. Eventually, he talked to MyScrapCars, who agreed to buy it for AED 4,500 with free towing and immediate cash payment. By comparing a few offers and knowing his car’s parts were in decent condition, Ahmed Bin Waleed doubled the amount he could have taken!
Step 4: Avoid Making Common Mistakes When Selling A Dead Car
You may have left money on the table because most sellers:
- Took the first offer instead of checking in or doing a market comparison.
- Thought they would need to pay for towing when some buyers will offer it for free.
- Returned their dead car registration to the RTA, not realizing they would now assume any traffic fines and fees because they didn’t cancel it to discourage them as the new car owner.
💡 Pro Tip: Always transfer ownership legally when selling a dead car to limit your liability if the car is resold or driven illegally.
Step 5: Conclude with Deal Smartly
Now you have identified a buyer:
- Put the price in writing.
- Put all necessary documents in the buyer's possession.
- Withhold the car until payment is made.
- Request a receipt from the buyer.
Why Sell Your Dead Car with MyScrapCars?
MyScrapCars wants to make your experience a simple, quick, safe, and legal way to sell your dead or junk car across the UAE. Here are some of the reasons to choose MyScrapCars for selling your dead car:
- You will receive instant cash payment for your dead car on the spot.
- We offer free towing in the UAE.
- There are no hidden charges and no paperwork hassle.
- We will accept any make, model, or condition.
Our vast experience and network of scrap car buyers allow us to ensure you receive the highest value possible for your junk vehicle.
Summary
A dead car does not represent a dead investment. Following the right strategies, it is possible to get top cash offers for cars by assessing their value, determining the right sale method, and avoiding common mistakes. Ideally, you will either sell it for parts, sell to a dealer, or directly to the scrap car buyer. The plan is always to have the best value while ensuring that the transaction goes smoothly and is legal.
If you're looking for a FAST, reliable, and HIGH-PAID deal for your dead car in the UAE, then MyScrapCars has your back; no paperwork, no wait time, simply cash in hand.
FAQs
1. How much can I get for my dead car in the UAE?
The amount you can get will depend on the make/model/condition and parts of your car. Scrap cars generally go for between AED 1,500 and AED 10,000.
2. Do I need to fix my dead car before selling it?
No. You will probably spend more money fixing it than it is worth. Scrap buyers will buy cars in any condition.
3. Can I sell my dead car without registration?
Yes. However, you will still need to provide proof of ownership and your Emirates ID to transfer the ownership legally.
4. How do I avoid getting scammed when selling my dead car?
Make sure you only use licensed scrap car buyers, establish the price before pickup, and get paid before handing over your car.
5. Does MyScrapCars buy cars outside of Dubai?
Yes. MyScrapCars services all Emirates in the UAE. MyScrapCars provides free towing and cash on the spot when they pick up your scrap car.
