
FAQs
Looking to junk your car in Ohio? Our FAQ covers everything you need to know, from required paperwork to the junking process and pricing.

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Got an old clunker taking up space on your driveway? Is it old or barely running? Your junk car could still be worth more than you think.
Many scrap vehicles sell for between $100-$500 per ton!
The final scrap value of your automobile will depend on a few things, including:
Want to get the most value from your old car? Of course you do! We’ll share a few key insights and tips below to help you boost your payout.
You can also unlock your car’s scrap value in under 60 seconds with Wheelsaway’s free, no obligation calculator!

Using the formula below and some knowledge of current scrap values, you can get a rough estimate of your vehicle’s value.
You can also contact local junkyards yourself, providing accurate information about your vehicle to get fair offers. Or, save yourself the admin and use our free tool to get a faster valuation for your ride!
Scrap metal values are the biggest factor influencing your payout. Values change often. Higher metal prices = a higher payout, so knowing what metals are in your ride and what the current trends are can help you determine when to sell your vehicle.
It’s best to check the most up-to-date figures, but you can also use averages for a rough estimate.
If you’re unsure what metals are in your car, check its specifications. However, most vehicles contain the same metals, with a few exceptions. Aluminum, steel, and copper are the most common, and they’re found in locations like the frames, wheels, engine blocks, panels, and more.
The figures below are averages for the most common metals.
Note: the prices in this table are approximate and subject to change.
| Metal | Value (per pound, unless otherwise stated) | Common Car Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Platinum, Palladium, Rhodium | High (per ounce) | Catalytic converters |
| Copper | $3.00–$4.22 | Wiring, alternators, starters, radiators |
| Brass | $2.00–$2.30 | Radiators, fittings |
| Gold | $14.00 | Electronic components |
| Silver | $4.00 | Electronic components |
| Aluminum (Scrap prices vary by type – sheet, cast, extrusion, copper unit, wire). |
$0.67–$1.81 | Wheels, engine blocks, body panels |
| Stainless Steel | $0.30–$1.35 | Exhaust systems, trim |
| Lead | $0.80–$0.95 | Car batteries |
| Steel (per metric ton) | $620-$900 | Frame, body panels |
Salvaging might fetch you more cash, but junking is more convenient. Plus, not all vehicles can be salvaged. What method you use will depend on the condition of your vehicle.
Salvaging: Salvaging involves removing and reusing the vehicle’s reusable components. Salvage yards can sometimes pay more as they sell components individually. Sometimes, these vehicles can be completely restored and returned to the road, so only cars that still have some life left can be salvaged.
Junking: If your vehicle is at the end of its life, it will be junked. Junking is used when the vehicle and its components have no reusable value left. The car will be crushed as-is, with all materials recycled and fluids drained responsibly. Because the value of a junk car depends largely on current scrap prices, it still has the potential to fetch you a high payout depending on metal values at the time of junking.

Junking your car is also a great choice for the environment. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency has strict rules that junkyards must follow to protect the surrounding environment and ensure the correct management of universal and hazardous waste.
These high standards ensure all waste is handled responsibly. Here are some of the environmental benefits of junking your car:
Junking with Wheelsaway is a great way to guarantee a competitive payout, and responsible junking – a win-win for you and the environment!
You may get more cash for selling individual parts such as catalytic converters instead of selling the car whole, but the risk isn’t always worth the reward.
Without expert knowledge or tools, you risk damaging components and lowering the vehicle’s value, leaving you worse off than if you’d initially sold the car whole.
If you don’t have the time or knowledge to remove components yourself, you can sell the car as-is and still get a fair, competitive offer. You’re guaranteed to receive a faster payment than if you sold parts individually, and you won’t have to source buyers yourself – especially if you’re using a service like Wheelsaway!


Wheelsaway makes cashing in your old car simple. Grab an instant offer for your Ohio junk car, and enjoy quick payment with no-hassle pickup.

Looking to junk your car in Ohio? Our FAQ covers everything you need to know, from required paperwork to the junking process and pricing.

Learn how scrap metal prices and vehicle condition impact the value of your Ohio junk car, plus invaluable tips to boost your payout!

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