• junkcar
• September 22, 2025

Car Scrapping Guide for Ontario

Looking to get rid of an old or unwanted vehicle in Ontario? This Car Scrapping Guide for Ontario will help you understand the complete process of turning your end-of-life car into quick cash while ensuring everything is done legally and responsibly. From required documents to scrap yard selection and payout details, this guide covers the essential steps every vehicle owner should know.

In this article, our Car Scrapping Guide for Ontario will walk you through why scrapping your car is often the best option, how much money you can expect, the environmental impact of auto recycling, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether your car no longer runs, has accident damage, or simply costs too much to repair, this guide will show you exactly how to scrap it efficiently in Ontario.

What Does It Mean to Scrap a Car in Ontario?

Scrapping a car involves selling your vehicle to a licensed auto recycler or scrap yard that dismantles it for reusable parts and recycles the metal. Unlike selling privately, scrapping doesn’t require the car to be in running condition — even non-functional vehicles have scrap value.

Ontario has strict rules for disposing of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs). Licensed recyclers must follow environmental regulations to safely remove fluids, batteries, and hazardous materials.

Why Consider Car Scrapping Guide for Ontario?

Ontario drivers typically scrap vehicles for several reasons:

• End of life: Cars older than 10–15 years often cost more to repair than replace.
• Accident damage: Severe collisions can leave cars unsafe or uneconomical to fix.
• Quick cash: Scrap yards pay you based on weight, metal content, and parts value.
• Eco-friendly disposal: Prevents cars from sitting in landfills and leaking toxic fluids.
• Avoid fees: Keeping unused cars insured or plated adds unnecessary costs.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

In Ontario, you must prove legal ownership before scrapping your vehicle. Required paperwork includes:

1. Vehicle Ownership (Green Permit) – Shows you’re the registered owner; fill in the “Application for Transfer” portion when handing the vehicle over.
2. Valid Photo ID – Such as a driver’s license.
3. Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) – Required when selling privately but not always needed for scrapping; some yards may still request it.

Note: Without proof of ownership, licensed recyclers cannot legally accept your car.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

Before a tow truck arrives or you drive to the scrap yard:

• Remove personal belongings – Double-check glove compartments, trunk, under seats, and hidden areas.
• Take off license plates – Return them to ServiceOntario or transfer them to another vehicle.
• Cancel insurance – Once the vehicle is sold, contact your insurance provider to stop coverage.
• Use up gas – If safe, drive until the tank is nearly empty (scrap yards don’t pay for leftover fuel).

Step 3: Choose the Right Scrap Yard in Ontario

Not all buyers are the same. To avoid scams and maximize your payout:

• Look for licensed recyclers – Ideally members of the Ontario Automotive Recyclers Association (OARA).
• Check reviews – Google or Yelp ratings can highlight trustworthy buyers.
• Get multiple quotes – Different yards may offer very different payouts.
• Ask about towing – Many offer free pickup within city limits, saving you money.
• Avoid “cash-only” deals without receipts – Always get a bill of sale for protection.

Tip: If your car is still drivable, you may get slightly more money by dropping it off instead of requesting a tow.

Step 4: Understand Scrap Car Prices in Ontario

Scrap car payouts vary widely depending on several factors:

1. Vehicle weight – Heavier cars have more recyclable metal.
2. Market scrap metal prices – Rates fluctuate monthly depending on global demand.
3. Parts demand – Popular makes/models with reusable engines, transmissions, or catalytic converters can bring in extra.
4. Condition – Running cars may fetch higher resale offers than scrap value alone.

Average Ontario scrap car payout:

• Small cars: $200–$400
• Mid-sized sedans/SUVs: $400–$800
• Trucks & larger vehicles: $700–$1,200+

Step 5: Complete the Transaction

When selling to a scrap yard:

1. Sign the transfer portion of your vehicle ownership.
2. Provide photo ID to confirm identity.
3. Receive payment (cash, cheque, or e-transfer).
4. Ask for a receipt or bill of sale.
5. Cancel insurance & return plates to ServiceOntario.

Important: Failing to return your license plates could mean you’re still responsible for renewal fees or toll charges.

Environmental Benefits of Car Scrapping Guide for Ontario

Scrapping your car helps both your wallet and the planet. Licensed Ontario recyclers:

• Safely remove and dispose of fluids (oil, antifreeze, gas, brake fluid).
• Reuse parts like batteries, tires, and rims.
• Recycle metals to reduce mining demand.
• Prevent hazardous leaks that harm soil and water.

In fact, over 80% of a vehicle can be recycled or reused, making car scrapping one of the most sustainable disposal options in Ontario.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Scrapping without proof of ownership – Illegal and risky.
• Accepting the first offer – Always compare quotes.
• Leaving plates on – Can cause fines and renewal charges.
• Using unlicensed buyers – Leads to environmental and legal issues.

FAQs – Car Scrapping Guide for Ontario

How do I find the best scrap car buyer in Ontario?

The best way is to compare quotes from multiple licensed auto recyclers and check if they’re OARA-certified to ensure fair payouts and legal compliance.

Can I scrap a financed or leased car?

No — you must fully own the vehicle before scrapping, which means paying off any outstanding loan or lease balance and transferring ownership to your name.

What if my car doesn’t run anymore?

Most Ontario scrap yards provide free towing for non-running cars, so you can still get paid for the metal and parts without transporting it yourself.

Do I pay any fees to scrap my car?

No, scrapping is not a paid service — reputable buyers actually pay you for your vehicle based on weight, parts demand, and current scrap metal prices.

How long does the scrapping process take?

Once you contact a scrap yard, the entire process usually takes 1–3 business days, including towing, paperwork, and receiving your payment.

Can I get more money if my car still runs?

Yes, running or well-maintained vehicles often fetch higher payouts, since buyers may resell them for parts or auction instead of scrapping for metal only.

Conclusion

In conclusion, car scrapping guide for Ontario is a quick, legal, and eco-friendly way to turn an old vehicle into cash while helping the environment. By preparing your documents, removing plates, and choosing a licensed recycler, you can maximize your payout and avoid common mistakes — making the process smooth, profitable, and responsible.

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