Contacting a junk car buyer is often one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to get rid of an old beater. In many cases, you can schedule a pick-up within a day or two, saving you a considerable amount of time and effort compared to a private sale. If your car doesn't run or is in especially rough condition, you may also find that its scrap value is higher than its resale value.
While selling your junk car this way is straightforward, there are still a few common mistakes that can slow the process down or make it more frustrating. These pitfalls are easy to avoid, however. Keep reading to learn about three potential junk car traps and how you can keep yourself from walking into them.
1. Failing to Disclose Your Car's Condition
You've probably heard that junk car buyers don't care about the condition of the cars they purchase. While this is true in a general sense, these buyers still need to understand a few broad details. Existing damage from accidents, significant numbers of missing parts, and other major defects can potentially impact your final offer.
Fortunately, you don't need to worry about coming up with a description. Most buyers will ask you questions on the phone or through an online form and potentially ask for a few pictures. As long as you answer these questions honestly and thoroughly, you should get an accurate quote. Avoid leaving out any details which may surprise the tow truck driver when they arrive.
2. Not Providing Details About the Car's Location
Junk car buyers deal with beaters in every condition and every location. However, that doesn't mean that the tow truck driver will arrive prepared for any eventuality. When receiving your initial offer, make sure you consider whether your vehicle is easily accessible. Is it missing tires and raised on blocks? Is it sitting in a muddy field that's challenging to reach?
Letting the scrapyard know about the car's location and any potential complications will ensure a smooth pick-up. Your driver will arrive ready to get your vehicle from wherever it may be. As a result, you won't face the possibility of getting a lower payout if the driver needs to leave and return with a more capable vehicle.
3. Losing the Title
Unless your vehicle is old enough to be exempt, the law requires you to sign the vehicle title over to any buyer. Junk car buyers can't compromise on this requirement without breaking the law, so you shouldn't expect to be able to skirt around this replacement. However, title searches are relatively cheap in most states, so it's usually worthwhile to recover your title before contacting a junk car buyer.
Selling a junk car should be quick and easy. Make sure you avoid these common mistakes so that you don't add unnecessary time, difficulty, and frustration to the process.
For more information on junk car removal, contact a company near you.