A question we get asked regularly is ‘how to scrap a car’. If you’re looking to scrap your vehicle, then you’ll want to do it properly.
Scrapping a car properly means you’re saving the environment from being contaminated with hazardous components like oils, batteries, and coolants.
It also allows for the recycling of valuable materials like metals and plastics, conserving natural resources and reducing the need for manufacturing brand new materials.
These are just a couple of reasons why it’s important to scrap your end-of-life vehicle at an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF).
Scrapping a vehicle isn’t necessarily difficult. Although there’s a lot of information people aren’t aware of. So, we’re here to run you through the process and answer your questions.
Reasons to scrap a car
The first thing you need to consider is knowing when your car has reached the end of its life.
If you’re not sure if your car needs to be scrapped or not, let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons people might scrap a car.
1. It’s expensive to run
If you find yourself forking out for regular repairs, MOT fails and breakdowns, then now might be the time to scrap your car.
2. It’s been written off
If your car has been involved in an accident and is beyond repair, you’ll need to write it off. If that’s the case, then scrapping it is probably the best option. At least you can claim some more for scrapping it and know that the materials will be recycled.
3. Your car’s wasting fuel
Sometimes older cars can waste more fuel. If you find yourself taking more frequent trips to the petrol station, it might be time to say ‘goodbye’.
Newer cars are often more petrol efficient and are better for the environment.
4. You want to get rid of it easily
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way of getting rid of your car, then it might be easier to let the experts do their thing.
An ATF will collect your car and take it back to their centre for it to be recycled. It definitely takes any stress and hassle away compared to trying to sell it yourself and dealing with unreliable people.
5. You need the money
Sometimes there isn’t much more to it other than you need some cash! So if this sounds like you, then scrapping your car is a quick way of making some money. It can be an easier and quicker process to scrap it compared to trying to sell it.
A step-by-step guide on how to scrap my car
So, now you know why you might want to scrap your car. The next question is, how do you scrap a car?
At Overton Automotive, we’re a licensed ATF so are fully equipped and experienced when it comes to recycling vehicles.
Let’s go through the process on how to scrap your vehicle.
Step 1 – Find a reputable scrap yard
Firstly, you’ll want to research a few options. Check reviews and ensure you take your vehicle to a certified and licenced ATF.
We recommend going for scrap yards in your area if you’re able to drive your vehicle to the facility yourself. If not, Overton Automotive collects vehicles from various areas around the UK.
Get in touch with us to arrange a vehicle collection.
It’s also a good idea to contact multiple facilities to get quotes for your vehicle. Make sure to compare offers to ensure you get the best price.
Step 2 – Prepare your car to be scrapped
Once you’ve decided on where you’re taking your vehicle, you’ll want to prepare your car to be scrapped.
Remove personal items
Make sure to remove all personal items, including licence plates, registration, and insurance documents. You should also remove any valuables, such as electronic devices or jewellery. Although if you do leave anything, don’t worry! When you recycle your vehicle with us, we will return any items we find in your vehicle.
Handle paperwork
Gather important documents like the car title and V5 registration documents. You’ll need to transfer ownership of the car to the auto recycler, so make sure to have all the necessary paperwork ready to go.
If you have misplaced or lost the documents, you can speak to our dedicated team who will advise on how to proceed without these.
Step 3 – Arrange transportation for your vehicle
Many scrap yards offer towing services so you might be able to arrange a time for them to pick up your car. At Overton Automotive, we collect all vehicles in and around Aberdeen as well as other areas
Alternatively, ATF’s usually allow for drive-ins. If your car is still operable, you can drive it to the scrap yard yourself.
Step 4 – Cancel Insurance
Make sure to contact your insurance company to cancel your policy once the car is scrapped. You should be able to claim a refund if you have time left on your policy.
How much is it to scrap a car?
There are no fees when it comes to scrapping a car. Simply turn up with the correct documents and you will be paid depending on the vehicle.
Get a free quote for scrapping your car.
Low emission zone support fund
There are now low emission zones in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee. So, Transport Scotland is funding a new scheme for those within a 20km radius of the low emission zones.
That means for those living in and around Scotland, Energy Saving Trust is offering households up to £3,000 towards the safe disposal of non-compliant vehicles.
“It offers an incentive for low-income households to take older, more polluting vehicles off the road.”
To see if you’re eligible for a grant of up to £3000, fill out the self-referral form.
Where to scrap my car?
The topic of climate change is on most people’s minds at the moment, making it even more crucial to scrap a car correctly.
At Overton Automotive, we care about car recycling. Our process means you can ensure that your car is recycled safely, responsibly, and efficiently. We have two recycling facilities located across the North and Mid UK.
We’re a licensed ATF, so get in touch with our team on 01224 722 354 or sales@overton-automotive.co.uk to scrap your car with us today.
Alternatively, you can find a vehicle scrapyard near you.
