Scrapping your car means choosing between dozens of companies, each claiming to offer the best price. The reality is that prices can vary by hundreds of pounds for exactly the same vehicle, depending on which buyer you approach. This guide reviews the most well known scrap car buyers honestly, so you can make an informed decision before you hand over your keys.
Quick Comparison
| Company | Best For | Typical Price Range | Collection Speed | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motorway | Part exchange and higher value used cars | £150 to £800+ | 2 to 5 days | ★★★★★ |
| We Buy Any Car | Speed and high street convenience | £80 to £500 | Same day | ★★★★☆ |
| Scrap Car Network | Getting multiple local ATF quotes | £100 to £450 | 1 to 3 days | ★★★★☆ |
| Cartakers | End of life and non running cars | £90 to £380 | 1 to 2 days | ★★★★☆ |
| Scrap Car Comparison | Comparing multiple offers at once | £100 to £420 | 1 to 3 days | ★★★☆☆ |
| Car Takeback | Environmentally focused disposal | £80 to £350 | 2 to 4 days | ★★★☆☆ |
Prices above are illustrative ranges and depend heavily on your make, model, mileage, condition and current scrap metal values. Always get at least three quotes before accepting an offer.
Full Company Reviews
Motorway
Best for: Higher value cars and part exchangePros
- Dealer auction model regularly beats standard scrap prices
- Transparent online valuation with no obligation
- Strong reputation and high Trustpilot scores
Cons
- Better suited to cars still worth trading than pure scrap
- Collection can take longer than dedicated scrap specialists
Motorway works best if your car still has some resale value, since their dealer network will often pay significantly more than a scrapyard would. If your car is truly end of life and worth under £150, a dedicated ATF is likely a better fit.
We Buy Any Car
Best for: Speed and certaintyPros
- Hundreds of drop off branches across the UK
- Cash in hand on the same day you visit
- DVLA notification handled for you
Cons
- Online valuations are frequently adjusted downward at the branch
- Not always competitive on pure scrap prices
We Buy Any Car is convenient and fast, which is worth something if you need the money quickly or simply want the process over. Just be prepared for the online quote to change once an advisor inspects the car in person, sometimes significantly.
Scrap Car Network
Best for: Getting local ATF quotes quicklyPros
- Connects you to authorised local scrap dealers
- Quotes are generally firm and not revised on collection
- Free collection included in most quotes
Cons
- Fewer buyers in the network than some rivals
- Prices can lag behind spot metal prices during volatile periods
Scrap Car Network is a solid option if you want a straightforward ATF quote without too much complexity. The network is smaller than some comparison platforms, so it is always worth cross checking against other buyers before committing.
Cartakers
Best for: Non runners and end of life vehiclesPros
- Accepts non running, fire damaged and flood damaged cars
- Quick collection, often within 24 hours
- Issues Certificate of Destruction (CoD) on the day
Cons
- Prices at the lower end for cars that could still be sold
- Customer service can be patchy outside business hours
Cartakers is a reliable choice when your car genuinely has no resale value and you just need it gone legally and quickly. They handle the DVLA notification and produce a CoD on collection, which removes your legal liability immediately.
Scrap Car Comparison
Best for: Comparing multiple offersPros
- Sends your details to multiple buyers simultaneously
- Easy to use interface and quick quotes
- No upfront cost and no obligation to accept
Cons
- Quotes are not always honoured on collection day
- Can generate a high volume of follow up calls
Scrap Car Comparison does what it says on the tin, but the experience varies depending on which buyer in their network picks up your job. Always confirm the final price in writing before agreeing a collection date.
Car Takeback
Best for: Eco conscious disposalPros
- Focuses on environmentally responsible dismantling
- Covers most of the UK with licensed collection agents
- Straightforward booking process online
Cons
- Prices tend to be below market compared to competitors
- Collection windows can be wider than some rivals
Car Takeback appeals to drivers who want their old car handled responsibly and with minimal fuss. If maximising the price you receive is the priority, you will likely do better comparing quotes through a multi buyer platform first.