Scrap Car Removal
Your old car isn’t just taking up space in your driveway—it’s silently draining your finances, tanking your property’s appeal and value, and costing peace of mind.
Bottom line? It’s no longer an asset but a liability.
It might be time to consider scrap car removal.
Read on to discover what it is, how it works, and the benefits of turning your car into cash with Turners Wreckers.
What Exactly is Scrap Car Removal?
Scrap car removal is the process of collecting & dismantling old, unwanted, damaged, non-operational, or end-of-life vehicles that are too costly to repair or maintain.
The goal is to salvage as many usable components and recyclable materials as possible, reducing landfill waste, minimising greenhouse gas emissions, conserving natural resources, and cutting down on the energy required to manufacture new products.
What Does the Scrap Car Removal Process Look Like?
Here’s what the car removal process entails:
Step 1: Find a Licensed Car Removal Service
Not all scrap car removal companies are created equal; some offer far better service, value, and reliability than others. Top performers in the industry have:
- A rock-solid reputation online (check reviews and ratings)
- Clear and responsive communication at every step
- Transparent pricing model with no hidden fees
- Multiple payment methods for your convenience
The best companies also provide fast, efficient services with 24/7 availability—because emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule.
Step 2: Get an Estimate
Most companies offer instant quotes—some, in mere seconds!
All you have to do is provide details about your car’s make, model, year of manufacture, and overall condition (running or non-running). This helps them estimate your car’s market value by assessing the weight of recyclable materials and the presence of valuable components like catalytic converters, transmission, and engines.
Step 3: Schedule Pick-Up
Once you accept the quote, the scrap car removal company will send a representative to conduct a final assessment at the scheduled time and place. If everything is in order, they will drive your car to the scrapping facility.
If your car is dead, don’t worry; the company will arrange free towing from your location, saving you the hassle and $$$ of transporting a non-running vehicle.
Step 4: Hand Over Documents
Have the following documents on hand to ensure a smooth dismantling service:
- a government-issued photo ID, like driver’s license
- your vehicle’s registration certificate to provide proof of ownership
This helps companies avoid buying and scrapping stolen vehicles and protects them from liability by checking if the vehicle has any insurance claims or outstanding loans attached to it.
Step 5: Receive Payment
Once your car is collected, you get your money—in cash or cheque.
Cash is your safest option—you get immediate payment in hand, without the risk of scams, bank delays, or the long waiting periods often associated with cheques.
Step 6: Deregister Your Vehicle
After your vehicle is processed, you’ll receive a Certificate of Destruction.
Use it to deregister your car at the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA)—while there, check to see whether you can get a refund for an unused vehicle licence. This due diligence will ensure the vehicle is no longer allowed on New Zealand roads, protecting you from legal troubles stemming from any misuse or illegal activity linked to the vehicle.
Why Should You Consider Scrap Car Removal?
If you have an old car that has seen better days, selling it to a scrap car removal service could be your best move. Here are seven reasons that make your case:
1. Eco-Friendly Disposal
Are you an environmentally-conscious individual worried about your carbon footprint?
Scrap car removal helps you prioritize sustainability and support a circular economy by recycling your end-of-life vehicle. Here’s what the process typically looks like:
- Hazardous materials are safely removed
- Functional parts like batteries and catalytic converters are refurbished and sold
- Materials like steel, aluminium, plastic, and rubber (from tyres) are melted down and reused in various industries, including construction and aerospace.
2. Convenient, Hassle-Free Process
Selling your car for scrap can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be.
Reputable dealers, like Turners Wreckers, offer complete support from start to finish—from paperwork to towing—to make the process seamless and stress-free for you.
Do you know what this means? You no longer have to:
- Worry about fixing a car that’s no longer roadworthy
- Put out ads to get your vehicle in front of potential buyers
- flex your negotiation muscles to maximise the car’s sale value
3. Earn Some Cash
Scrap car removal can be an excellent way to earn instant cash, even if your vehicle is inoperational. You can use that money as a down payment towards a new car, to cover outstanding repair bills, or to treat yourself to something nice—you decide.
4. Free Up Space
An old, unusable car takes up valuable real estate in your garage, driveway, or on the street. By scrapping it, you free up space it was occupying for more practical purposes, such as parking a functional vehicle or storing a bike or scooter.
5. Increase Property Value
A vehicle with chipped paint, visible scratches all over the bodywork, or layers of dust and grime can diminish from the aesthetic appeal of your property. It signals a lack of care and maintenance, which may cause prospective buyers to question the condition of your home’s interior—ultimately lowering its perceived value and desirability.
By removing it, you can boost your home’s curb appeal by setting up a mini garden or installing a patio; this could potentially increase your property’s value by 5-10%!
6. Avoid Ongoing Repair Costs
Cars often hold sentimental value in our lives, making it hard to let go.
However, if the cost of repair exceeds the car’s fair market value, it may be more financially sensible to sell it in its current condition. After all, cars depreciate over time, and letting it sit in your driveway will only accelerate that loss.
7. Prevent Liabilities
When left abandoned for too long, your car can become a magnet for unwanted attention—making it more likely to be a target for antisocial behaviours like vandalism and arson. Additionally, since they can contain flammable and combustible substances like brake fluid, coolant, gasoline, and engine oil, they can also pose a fire hazard.
By selling your vehicle to an authorised car removal service, you ensure it is disposed of safely and legally, protecting you from potential misuse and liability down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much do you get for scrapping a car?
Between $200 and $1000, depending on your vehicle’s current condition.
How can I get the most money when scrapping a car?
To maximise the value of your scrap car, highlight the condition of high-value components in your “get a quote” form.
Are there any subsidies to scrap your car?
While New Zealand has previously implemented scrappage schemes like Clean Car Discount and Clean Car Upgrade, no government subsidies are currently available for scrapping your car.
The Bottom Line:
Your search for “scrap metal car removal near me” ends here.
If you have a car that’s spending more time in the driveway than on the road or is no longer serving your needs, swap it for cash at Turners Wreckers. We’re a customer-centric business committed to speed and efficiency and offer top dollar for cars in any condition—yes, even junk! Give us a call at 027 3513 729 to learn more.
