How Much Do Wreckers Pay For Cars & Other Vehicles in VIC?

Category: Business | Author: freyaparker | Published: July 8, 2025

Wreckers in Victoria typically pay between $300 and $9,999 for cars and other vehicles, depending on the make, model, condition, and current market demand for spare parts or scrap metal.

Understanding How Vehicle Wrecking Works in Victoria

Wreckers operate by dismantling unwanted or damaged vehicles and reselling parts or recycling materials. This process is ideal for vehicle owners with non-running, unregistered, or written-off cars that are costly to repair or difficult to sell privately.

Wreckers in VIC are licensed businesses that specialise in collecting all types of vehicles, including:

  • Sedans and hatchbacks
  • 4WDs and SUVs
  • Commercial vans and utes
  • Trucks and fleet vehicles

Examples of Car Wreckers in Melbourne operating across Victoria include Pick-A-Part, Jollys Auto Parts, and Poyser Motor Group Wrecking.

What Affects the Payout Offered by Wreckers?

The amount wreckers pay is influenced by:

  • Make and model: Popular brands like Toyota, Ford, or Mazda have parts that are in higher demand.
  • Vehicle age and mileage: Low-kilometre engines or transmissions in working condition are worth more.
  • Condition: Wreckers offer more for vehicles that still have usable parts.
  • Scrap metal weight: Steel, aluminium, and copper components contribute to the scrap value.

For example, a 2010 Toyota Hilux in fair condition may fetch around $5,000, while an older 2002 Ford Falcon in poor condition might receive $400–$800, depending on weight and parts value.

Payment Range by Vehicle Type in VIC

Vehicle TypeAverage Payout RangeNotes
Small cars (e.g., Yaris)$300–$2,000Lightweight, fewer valuable parts
4WDs and SUVs$1,000–$7,000More scrap weight, more valuable components
Vans and Utes$1,500–$8,000Sought-after engines and accessories
Commercial Trucks$2,000–$9,999High scrap metal value, usable mechanicals

Why Car Owners in VIC Choose Wreckers

This option suits people who:

  • Own vehicles with no roadworthy certificate
  • Need fast removal of a non-running car
  • Live in regional towns or outer suburbs where private buyers are rare
  • Want to avoid costly repairs

Over 70% of VIC vehicle owners choose car wreckers for convenience, same-day pick-up, and minimal paperwork.

Example of a Trusted Car Wrecker in Victoria

Melbourne Cash for Carz is a trusted local car buyer and licensed wrecker that pays up to $9,999 for unwanted vehicles. They:

  • Accept all cars, regardless of rego or condition
  • Offer free towing and same-day collection
  • Provide on-the-spot payments with no hidden fees
  • Remove vehicles within 24 hours of booking

They’re often recommended for their fast communication, licenced operations, and fair quotes, particularly for sellers in metro and outer VIC suburbs.

How to Prepare a Vehicle Before Scrapping

To ensure a smooth handover:

  • Remove personal belongings
  • Take off custom plates if needed
  • Prepare photo ID and ownership proof
  • Cancel registration via VicRoads or complete a notice of disposal

Comparison: Car Wreckers vs Other Selling Options

Selling MethodSpeedPaperwork SupportBest For
WreckersSame-dayFull assistanceUnwanted or damaged cars
Online private sale1–4 weeksOwner’s taskRoadworthy, well-maintained cars
Dealership trade-in1–3 daysThe dealer handles itUpgrading to a new vehicle
Auction (Pickles, etc.)1 weekPartial supportUnique or vintage cars

Legal and Environmental Benefits

Selling to a wrecker in Victoria ensures:

  • Proper deregistration of the vehicle
  • Environmentally safe recycling of fluids and metals
  • Avoidance of illegal dumping fines

According to the Victorian EPA, recycling one old car saves over 1,000 kg of raw materials and reduces landfill waste.

Learn More: https://www.melbournecashforcarz.com.au/car-wreckers/

Final Thoughts

Wreckers offer the most efficient and stress-free way to dispose of unwanted vehicles in VIC. Their ability to pay between $300 and $9,999, handle paperwork, and provide towing makes them the top choice for many.

For sellers needing fast action and fair compensation, businesses like Melbourne Cash for Carz are a reliable solution. They combine convenience, speed, and transparency to deliver a trustworthy vehicle-selling experience.

FAQ

Q: Do I need a roadworthy certificate to sell my car to a wrecker?
A: No. Wreckers in VIC do not require an RWC. They accept cars in any condition.

Q: Can I sell my unregistered car to a wrecker?
A: Yes. Unregistered vehicles are accepted, and registration can be cancelled through VicRoads.

Q: How long does the wrecking process take?
A: Most wreckers provide same-day removal, with payment issued instantly.

Q: Are quotes from car wreckers free?
A: Yes. Most wreckers offer free quotes online or over the phone.

Q: What paperwork do I need?
A: Generally, you’ll need photo ID and proof of ownership. The wrecker handles the rest.