How Much Is My Scrap Car Worth in Canada?
Scrap car prices in Canada depend on weight, local rates, condition, parts, pickup and provincial paperwork. Here is how to estimate yours and what to check in your province.
A scrap car in Canada does not have one fixed price. The offer depends on the vehicle's weight, current local recycling rates, its condition, reusable parts, paperwork, location and pickup cost. A running, complete car can be worth more than its metal, because a buyer may repair it or reuse its parts.
Start with the base value
Estimated scrap value = vehicle weight in tonnes × local complete-car rate per tonne − pickup and processing costs
That formula gives you a floor, not a guaranteed offer. A competitive bid can come in higher when the vehicle has resale or parts value. Our guide on how scrap car value is calculated walks through the formula step by step.
What raises or lowers an offer?
| Factor | May raise the offer | May lower the offer |
|---|---|---|
| Condition | Starts, drives or is repairable | Major mechanical or collision damage |
| Completeness | Original major components present | Missing engine, transmission, converter or wheels |
| Local demand | Popular model and an active buyer market | Limited local demand |
| Location | Close to participating buyers, easy access | Long recovery distance or difficult access |
| Paperwork | Clear ownership documents available | Missing or unresolved ownership documents |
| Market rates | Stronger current material prices | Weaker current material prices |
Why prices differ across Canada
The same model can receive different offers in Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, Saskatoon or Vancouver. Buyer competition, recovery distance, local parts demand and current material rates all vary by market. Access to export ports, parts buyers and vehicle auctions can also play a part. These are market conditions, not a promise that any one city pays more or less.
How to estimate your scrap car's value in Canada
Begin with the vehicle's weight in kilograms and the current complete-car rate in your area. Then consider whether the car starts and drives, whether major components are missing, local parts demand, recovery distance and the ownership documents you have.
When you compare estimates, check that each one states its currency (CAD), its location and the date of the rate it used. Metal prices move, so a rate from last year or from another province can be far off.
Paperwork and licence plates
The documents you need and what happens to your plates depend on your province. Use this table as a starting point, and follow your provincial authority's instructions before the vehicle is collected.
| Province | Authority | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Quebec | SAAQ | Ownership transfer, registration status and plate handling. See our guide on selling a car without registration in Quebec (in French). |
| Ontario | ServiceOntario | Used-vehicle transfer steps and plate handling. See our guide on keeping your plate when you sell in Ontario. |
| British Columbia | ICBC and your Autoplan broker | Transfer, plate removal and insurance cancellation. See our guide on scrapping a car in British Columbia. |
| Alberta | Alberta registry agent | Bill of sale, registration and plate handling. See our guide on selling your car in Alberta. |
| Manitoba | Manitoba Public Insurance | Transfer, plates and Autopac cancellation. |
| Nova Scotia | Registry of Motor Vehicles | Transfer, and plate return or reassignment. |
| Saskatchewan | SGI | Transfer and registration requirements. |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | Motor Registration Division | Transfer and plate requirements. |
Do not cancel your insurance or dispose of your plates until the sale is complete and you have checked your province's instructions.
How to get the strongest accurate offer
- Use the exact year, make and model.
- Say whether the car starts, drives, rolls and steers.
- Disclose damage and missing components.
- Enter the postal code where the car will be picked up.
- Confirm which ownership documents you have.
- Compare the complete offer, including pickup and payment terms.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a set price per tonne for scrap cars in Canada?
No. Rates change by date, region, buyer and how complete the vehicle is. Use a current local rate, or request a live offer for your exact car.
Do I keep my licence plates?
It depends on your province. Remove or return your plates only as your provincial authority and your insurer instruct.
Can I sell a car without registration?
Sometimes, but the proof of ownership you need and the process vary by province. Check the requirements before you arrange pickup.
Why can the same car receive different offers in different cities?
Buyer competition, transport distance, parts demand, recycling rates and resale options differ from one market to the next.
When should I cancel my insurance?
After the vehicle is collected and the ownership or registration step is complete, following your insurer's and your provincial authority's instructions.
Get the Top Offer from Local Recyclers
Local recyclers bid. You get paid, towing included.