
FAQs
From title problems to junkyard rules, our South Carolina junk car FAQ has all the answers to help you through the process.
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Want to discover how much your scrap car is worth?
The true scrap value of your automobile depends on several factors, including its age, condition, and weight. On average, scrap cars sell for $100 to $500 per ton, with value determined mainly by the car’s weight and the metals inside—like steel, aluminum, and copper. Larger vehicles usually bring in more, and we can provide an accurate scrap car valuation based on current metal prices.

Calculate your car’s worth by multiplying its weight (in pounds or tons) by the current market value of its metals. Don’t forget to adjust for any missing or damaged parts:
Don’t have time? We can help. Skip the math and use Wheelsaway’s fast online scrap car calculator! We’ll give you a more accurate estimated value for your scrap car based on current scrap metal values. Its never been easier to find out how much your scrap car is worth.
When selling a car for scrap, keep in mind that scrap metal car prices fluctuate frequently, sometimes even daily. The type of metal in your vehicle will also play a big role in determining how much your scrap car is worth.
Whether it’s running or not, your old clunker will probably contain steel, copper, or aluminum. These are the most common metals found in vehicles, and their values will make up a large part of your payout.
Explore the most common scrap metals and their values below to give you a clearer idea of the value of your scrap car!
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 means taking out valuable parts to sell individually or rebuilding the car and issuing it with a rebuilt title so the car can be driven again. This is the best option for cars that still have some life left.
Junking, by contrast, involves crushing the car whole and recycling all materials – metal, rubber, plastic, and fabric. It’s used when cars are damaged and ready to retire.
Salvaging can bring in more money, but junking is often the easiest option for cars that are badly damaged or totaled.

Not only can junking a car get you a decent payout, it also benefits the environment! Here’s how:
1. Prevent Harm, Protect Nature
Hazardous car fluids can poison soil and water, but proper recycling can prevent this. Licensed dealers work hard to junk vehicles safely and protect the surrounding environment.
2. Maximize Materials, Minimize Waste
Steel, aluminum, and copper can be reused, reducing the need for new mining and production.
3. Reduce Energy & Carbon
Recycling consumes far less energy than manufacturing new parts, lowering emissions for every car.
4. Keep Parts Working Longer
Engines, electronics, and other components can be refurbished, supporting a circular economy.
5. Save Landfill Space
Most of a vehicle’s materials can be reclaimed, keeping large amounts of waste out of landfills.
Dismantling a car for parts might sound like a tempting way to boost the value of your old ride, but it’s often more hassle than it’s worth.
Sure, alloy wheels and other high-value pieces can fetch a good price, but taking them off can lower the overall junk or salvage payout.
Things like engines, doors, or catalytic converters might also be valuable, but for most people, selling the whole car at once is faster, easier, and stress-free. If you don’t have the time, patience, or know-how to part out, we can help you sell your vehicle whole for junk or salvage!
Want to boost the scrap value of your automobile? Here are a few need-to-know tricks to get you the best scrap car valuation.
Get the best price for your old car today with Wheelsaway – get your free quote online!


Sell your old junk car in South Carolina quickly and effortlessly with Wheelsaway. Get an instant offer today, and we’ll take care of pickup and payment.

From title problems to junkyard rules, our South Carolina junk car FAQ has all the answers to help you through the process.

Thinking of junking your car in South Carolina? Learn how prices are set, the environmental upsides, and the key parts buyers want most.

Wondering how to junk a car in South Carolina without a title? Learn the process, paperwork, and how to make cash with Wheelsaway.

Many people struggle with the question, ‘How to junk a car?’ Don’t worry—you don’t need to be an expert to make the process simple, profitable, and stress-free.