How Much Is My Scrap Car Worth in NZ?
Most car wrecker websites promise “up to $15,000”. Very few scrap cars get anywhere near that. This guide explains where the real value comes from, so you can judge any offer you get, including ours.
Scrap value and wreck value are different
A car’s pure scrap value is what its metal is worth once it has been drained and crushed. That depends on the car’s weight and the steel price on the day, and it is the floor for any offer.
Wreck value is what the car is worth to a wrecker who can reuse its parts. A 2012 Aqua with a smashed front still has a good hybrid battery, engine, doors and interior, so it’s worth far more than its weight in steel. Most cars sold to wreckers are priced somewhere between these two numbers.
The things that move the price
- Make and model: common NZ models have more buyers for their parts.
- Age and kilometres: newer parts are worth more.
- Engine and gearbox: whether they are present, and whether they work.
- Catalytic converter: contains precious metals, and is worth more on some models than others.
- Hybrid battery: a healthy one on an Aqua, Prius or similar adds real value.
- Wheels and tyres: alloys and tyres with good tread add a little.
- Completeness: missing parts reduce the offer.
How to get a fair offer
Give every buyer the same honest description: year, model, kilometres, what’s wrong with it, and what’s missing. Send clear photos of all four sides, the engine bay and the interior. An offer based on photos should be the price you are paid. If a buyer knocks money off on the day without a new problem to point to, that’s a warning sign.
Ask whether towing is included. A higher offer with a tow fee taken off can end up worth less than a lower offer with free pickup.
Before you hand over the keys
Take out personal things, toll tags, parking permits, and any child seats you want to keep. Check the glovebox and boot. After the sale, notify Waka Kotahi (NZTA) that you have sold the car, and cancel your insurance.
Common questions
Why do some wreckers advertise $15,000?
It’s a best-case figure, usually for a late-model vehicle or truck. For a typical end-of-life car, the offer is based on parts and metal, and it’s much lower. Always ask for a firm number based on your own car.
Is it better to strip parts and sell them myself?
Sometimes, if you have the time, tools and space. For most people, a stripped shell is then hard to get rid of and sells for less, so selling the car complete is simpler.
Get an offer for your car today
WhatsApp us a few photos with the make, model, year and suburb. We reply with an offer, book a pickup, and pay you when we collect. 7 days, 7am – 8pm.