The do's and don'ts of scrapping your vehicle
Thinking about scrapping your car? It can feel overwhelming knowing where to start but we’ve made it simple with this straightforward guide.
Do: Get a Quote from Trusted Companies
When your car is no longer roadworthy - whether it's a non-runner, MOT failure, or has been involved in an accident, you'll need to find a company that buys scrap vehicles and offers free collection.
Tip: Search online for “scrap my car” or “local scrap car collection.” Be sure to get at least three quotes and check reviews on Google or Trustpilot to ensure you're dealing with a reputable company.
Do: Check the Company is Legitimate
Before handing over your vehicle, do your research:
-
Does the company have a professional-looking website?
-
Are there verified reviews on Google or Facebook?
-
Can you speak with someone over the phone?
-
Do they clearly state they provide a Certificate of Destruction (CoD)?
A quick call can go a long way in confirming you're dealing with a trustworthy business.
Do: Get a Certificate of Destruction (CoD)
Once your vehicle has been collected, the company should provide a Certificate of Destruction. This confirms that the vehicle has been properly and legally scrapped.
What you need to do:
-
Retain section 9 (or section 4 for newer V5Cs) of your V5C logbook.
-
Notify the DVLA that the vehicle has been scrapped:
-
Either online at gov.uk
-
Or by posting the appropriate section of the logbook
-
This ensures you're no longer responsible for the vehicle.
Do: Claim Back Any Road Tax
Once the DVLA has been notified and the scrapping process is complete:
-
Any unused vehicle tax will be automatically refunded
-
If you pay by Direct Debit, it will be cancelled automatically
Note: You no longer need to return a tax disc, as these were abolished in 2014.
Have questions or need help with the process? Get in touch with us - we’re happy to help
