If you're considering selling your car but it happens to be non-running or damaged, there's a few things you need to consider so you can get the best possible deal and least frustration when it comes to selling a car.
Related: Can I trade my car in if it has problems?
There isn't exactly a black-and-white answer when it comes to selling a non-running / damaged car. It depends on a few factors, but most importantly, it depends on the extent of the damage and why the vehicle isn't running. We'll talk about a few factors to consider.
What is a non-running / damaged car?
Simply put, a non-running vehicle is a vehicle that's unable to start or move under its own power, and there's a myriad of causes for this. Some cases include issues with the drivetrain, electrical gremlins and even suspension. There's some form of damage to those components. Damage would consist of a drivetrain or even cosmetic or structural damage to the vehicle due to a collision.
You'll generally find these labels affixed to the vehicle sale title, or it's mentioned in the sale description. However, it isn't the end of the world if the vehicle is a non-runner or damaged.
Can you save a non-running / damaged car?
It all depends on the extent of the damage. Non-running vehicles would perhaps need simple components to get the vehicle started again and move reliably under its own power. For example, a new battery, a starter, a radiator, etc., may be required. As far as cosmetic damage goes, if the vehicle is not too far gone, a panel beater can repair cosmetic damage, but depending on the extent of it, it can get expensive. Superficial scratches, kerbed wheels, or a panel needing new paint are on the minor side of the spectrum. Where, for example, fender metal needs to be cut and welded, it will now drive up the cost to get the vehicle repaired properly. With regards to structural damage, nowadays, much damage can be repaired where it's safe enough for the vehicle to be put back on the road. However, if the structural damage is uneconomical to repair or such damage can't be repaired to a state where it's safe enough for road use, then it's better to let go of the vehicle. If an insurer writes off a vehicle, it would be best to communicate with the insurer to see if the vehicle can be roadworthy again. Having a qualified mechanic available to assess the vehicle also helps.
In that case, can I sell a non-running / damaged vehicle?
Yes, you can, but it will depend on who's buying it and what state the vehicle is in. There are a few ways to go about this:
Dealership - If your vehicle only requires minor repairs to make it roadworthy again, a general reputable dealership can consider buying your car, albeit at a reduced price. The dealerships need to recoup the costs associated with repairs and turn a profit, too, so it needs to make economical sense. However, if the vehicle is structurally or severely damaged, a general dealership doesn't accept vehicles like this and rather, it's best to sell to a Damaged Car dealer. If the vehicle is capable of being roadworthy again, it can get repaired, or it can be sold for spares.
Salvage Auction - You can auction off your non-runner / damaged vehicle to an auction that deals with damaged vehicles.
Private Sale - You can privately sell your vehicle as well, but you'll need to be transparent and honest about what's wrong to avoid any potential drama.
Scrapyard - You can sell the vehicle to a scrapyard to salvage what they can for spares.
It's best also to deregister the vehicle in our eyes if you don't plan to put the vehicle back on the road to avoid building up fines. Otherwise, the usual change of ownership procedure applies, but you'll need to state that the vehicle is not running.
Can I sell my car if it's deemed a Code 3?
You can sell your Code 3 car, but it needs to be explicitly stated and noted that it's permanently unfit for use. More on the eNatis codes here. The original Natis papers for the vehicle will state if the vehicle is used or a rebuilt vehicle. Those vehicles are considered insurance write-offs as the vehicle's repair value exceeded the vehicle's registered value.
Now that you're armed with information, consider selling your car here.
