Thinking about scrapping your old car in 2025? You’re not alone. Thousands of Australians every year are choosing to sell their junk, damaged, or unused vehicles for cash. But one of the most common questions car owners ask is: “How much is my scrap car really worth?”
The answer isn’t a fixed number. The value of your scrap car in Australia in 2025 depends on several factors—from the make and model to the condition, weight, and even global metal prices. In this blog, we’ll break down exactly how scrap car prices are calculated and what you can expect to get this year.
What’s the Average Scrap Car Value in 2025?
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In 2025, the average scrap car in Australia is worth between $300 and $9,000 AUD, depending on its condition and what’s still salvageable. While a rusted-out shell may fetch a few hundred dollars, a complete vehicle with working parts can earn you much more.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Non-running, incomplete vehicles: $300–$800 AUD
- Running vehicles with damage: $800–$2,500 AUD
- Cars with working engines, transmission, or resale value: $2,500–$9,000 AUD
What Determines Scrap Car Prices in 2025?
Scrap car value isn’t random. Several key factors influence how much you’ll be offered by wreckers or scrap yards:
1. Make and Model
Popular brands like Toyota, Mazda, Ford, and Holden often fetch higher prices due to demand for parts.
2. Age and Condition
Newer cars or those with salvageable parts—like engines, catalytic converters, or tyres—are worth more.
3. Weight and Metal Content
Scrap yards pay for weight. Heavier vehicles like 4WDs or vans bring in more cash due to more steel and metal content.
4. Current Scrap Metal Prices
In 2025, the price of scrap metal (steel, aluminium, copper) is a big variable. As of Q2 2025, scrap steel is averaging $250–$350 per tonne, which directly impacts payouts.
5. Location and Towing Fees
Some removal services offer free towing, while others subtract transport costs. Metro areas (like Sydney or Melbourne) typically offer better rates due to volume.
How to Get the Highest Price for Your Scrap Car
To make the most from scrapping your car in 2025, here are a few tips:
✅ Get quotes from at least 3 different scrap car buyers
✅ Remove valuable extras (e.g. stereo, battery, alloy wheels) if allowed
✅ Provide full details—photos, VIN, condition—to get accurate estimates
✅ Choose buyers offering free pickup and no hidden charges
✅ Check if your rego is still valid—you might get a refund from your state authority
Is It Better to Sell or Scrap Your Car?
If your car is still running and roadworthy, selling it privately or trading it in might earn you more. But if it’s unregistered, damaged, or too costly to repair, scrapping is the quickest and easiest way to get cash with zero headaches.
In 2025, more Aussies are choosing to scrap because of rising vehicle recycling rates, stricter emissions policies, and rising demand for used parts.
Final Thoughts
So, how much is your scrap car worth in 2025? The short answer: it depends. But with the right approach and a bit of research, you can make sure you’re getting top value for your vehicle.
Whether your car is barely rolling or completely wrecked, scrap car removal services in Australia are ready to turn it into cash—fast.
Looking to get a quote? Contact Central Coast Auto Parts today for instant pricing, free towing, and a no-hassle experience that puts money in your hand.
