Whether it’s a minor fender bender that isn’t worth fixing, a blown engine, or a vehicle totaled in a major accident, looking at a damaged car in your driveway can be stressful. You might wonder: Is this even worth anything? Who would buy this?
The good news is that even a damaged car has significant value. At Cash Now Auto, we specialize in turning those headaches into instant cash. Here is everything you need to know about selling your damaged car in the USA.
1. Assess the Damage Honestly
Before reaching out for a quote, take a moment to evaluate the condition of your vehicle.
- Mechanical vs. Cosmetic: Is the damage just “ugly” (dents and scratches) or is it structural/mechanical (frame damage or a dead transmission)?
- The “Repair vs. Sell” Rule: If the cost of repairs exceeds the car’s current market value, it’s considered a “total loss”. In these cases, selling for cash is almost always the smarter financial move.
2. Gather Your Paperwork
To sell a car legally in the USA, you need to prove you own it.
- The Title: This is the most important document. If you’ve lost yours, you can usually apply for a duplicate at your local DMV for a small fee.
- Service Records: While not required for a junk or damaged car, having maintenance records can sometimes help you negotiate a higher price by showing the car was well cared for before the damage occurred.
3. Don’t Pay for Towing
One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is paying to have their damaged car moved. A reputable cash-for-cars service should always provide free towing as part of the deal. If a buyer asks you to pay for the tow or deducts it from your offer, look elsewhere.
4. Why Selling to a Professional Buyer Beats Private Sales
Trying to sell a damaged car on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist can be a nightmare. Private buyers often haggle aggressively, back out at the last minute, or waste your time with endless questions. By choosing a professional service like Cash Now Auto, you get:
- Speed: Offers are often made in minutes, and cars can be picked up within 24–48 hours.
- Fairness: We use market data to ensure you get a competitive offer based on the actual value of your car’s parts and scrap metal.
- Simplicity: We handle the paperwork, so you don’t have to worry about legal headaches later.
5. Get Your Cash and Move On
Once you accept an offer, the process is simple: the tow truck arrives, you sign over the title, and you get paid on the spot. It’s the fastest way to clear space in your garage and put money toward your next vehicle.
Ready to sell?
At Cash Now Auto, we live by our slogan: “We pay MORE than the Max!” Don’t let that damaged car sit and depreciate another day.