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 Type | Average Payout Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small cars (e.g., Yaris) | $300–$2,000 | Lightweight, fewer valuable parts |
| 4WDs and SUVs | $1,000–$7,000 | More scrap weight, more valuable components |
| Vans and Utes | $1,500–$8,000 | Sought-after engines and accessories |
| Commercial Trucks | $2,000–$9,999 | High 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 Method | Speed | Paperwork Support | Best For |
| Wreckers | Same-day | Full assistance | Unwanted or damaged cars |
| Online private sale | 1–4 weeks | Owner’s task | Roadworthy, well-maintained cars |
| Dealership trade-in | 1–3 days | The dealer handles it | Upgrading to a new vehicle |
| Auction (Pickles, etc.) | 1 week | Partial support | Unique 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.