It's not uncommon to hear people use these two terms interchangeably, but scrapping and salvaging are two very different things. If you have an old car that's no longer roadworthy, knowing whether to scrap or salvage it is essential for ensuring you can make as much money as possible. Below, we list the main differences between salvage cars and scrap cars so you can make an informed decision about what to do with your vehicle.

What is a salvage car?

A salvage car is usually a vehicle that is no longer considered fit for use but still has parts that are valuable for reselling and reusing. In some instances, it may also be repairable. Typically, a salvage car has an average age of around 10 years, but that doesn't mean that a salvage car can't be older than this.

What is a scrap car?

A scrap car is a car that has reached the end of its life, meaning that it's no longer roadworthy or of interest to sellers and buyers. Scrap cars don't usually have any useful parts that can be resold or recycled like a salvage car. Because of this, scrap cars have significantly less financial value. Scrap cars are typically between 12 and 15 years old, but again, this can vary based upon the condition of the vehicle.

How can I tell whether my car is a scrap car or a salvage car?

If you're struggling to place your vehicle into one of these categories, we strongly advise that you bring it to us to confirm its status if possible. Here at Motorwise, we can provide you with an instant quote if your vehicle is suitable to be scrapped and you can rely on us to provide an honest service as we have extensive experience in this field.

Our services

Here at Motorwise, we don't just scrap cars, we salvage them too! We represent one of the largest salvage buyers across the UK, offering top prices and the best car values available. Our car salvage service is quick, easy, cost-efficient and environmentally friendly.

For more information about our available car services, or to receive a free online quote for your car, you can visit our website or call us directly on 0800 276 1280.