How to Scrap a Car in the UK? Process, Prices & Rules (2026)

Scrapping a car in the UK can feel stressful if you’re unsure what to do. DVLA rules, missing paperwork, and worries about using the wrong scrap dealer often leave people anxious about fines or future problems.

This guide explains how to scrap a car in the UK, so you know exactly what steps to take and how to stay compliant with DVLA rules.

Key Takeaways: How to Scrap a Car in the UK

• You can legally scrap a car in the UK as long as you use a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF).
• It is illegal to accept cash for a scrap car. Payment must be by bank transfer or cheque.
• You must tell the DVLA when your car is scrapped, or you could still face fines.
• Always get a Certificate of Destruction to prove the vehicle has been scrapped legally.
• Scrap values vary depending on the car’s weight, location, and current metal prices.
• In most cases, scrapping a car can be completed within a few days from start to finish.

Can You Scrap a Car in the UK?

Yes, absolutely. In fact, over half a million cars are scrapped in the UK every year. Whether it has failed its MOT or has been damaged in an accident. As long as the vehicle is scrapped through a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), the process is completely legal.

You don’t need road tax or insurance to scrap a car, but you do need to follow DVLA rules to avoid future fines.

However, the difference between scrap and salvage is that with scrapping, the car is crushed and destroyed. While salvage means parts of the vehicle may be reused and resold.

How to Scrap a Car in the UK – Step by Step

Scrapping a car is much simpler than most people expect. Once you understand the steps, the whole process can often be completed in a day or two. Below is exactly how to scrap a car in the UK legally, without the stress or guesswork.

Step 1: Decide if Scraping Is the Right Option

This is the most important step to understand whether scrapping is the right option for you or not. Scrapping is usually the best option when:

• The car has failed its MOT, and repairs aren’t worth it
• The vehicle doesn’t run or has serious engine damage
• Insurance has written the car off
• The car’s value is lower than the cost of selling or fixing it

However, before thinking of scrapping, you should get your car valuation first. Because many people assume scrapping is their only choice, but sometimes it is not. 

Step 2: Find an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF)

You must scrap your car through an Authorised Treatment Facility. ATFs are licensed by the Environment Agency and are the only businesses legally allowed to scrap vehicles in the UK.

Using an unlicensed dealer is risky and can leave you responsible for the car later on. You can find a vehicle scrapyard near you from the UK GOV website.

Most importantly, under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, it is illegal to receive cash for scrapping a car. 

Legitimate ATFs will only pay by bank transfer or cheque, which protects you and creates a clear paper trail.

Step 3: Get a Scrap Value Quote

Don’t just take the first price you see. Prices fluctuate daily based on the global market for steel, aluminium, and platinum. You will receive a scrap value based on the car’s weight, engine type and location.

Current Scrap Metal Market Rates (UK – 2026)

Car Type	Estimated Scrap Value (Steel)	Estimated Salvage Value*
Small car (e.g. Ford Fiesta)	£180 – £260	£400+
Medium car (e.g. VW Golf)	£280 – £380	£600+
Large car / SUV (e.g. Range Rover)	£450 – £650	£1,200+

The estimated figures below are based on UK (ATF) pricing trends and guidance from the British Metals Recycling Association. These values reflect typical UK scrap prices in 2026, but actual offers can vary depending on metal markets, vehicle condition, and location.

Step 4: Arrange Collection or Drop-Off

Once you’ve accepted a quote, you need to get the car to the yard. You have two choices: driving it there yourself or having it collected.

Also, you should never pay for collection because most reputable scrap networks offer free collection as standard. 

If someone asks for a collection fee, it’s a red flag. Legitimate ATFs include collection as part of the service and deduct costs from the scrap value if necessary.

Step 5: Get Your Certificate of Destruction

After your car is scrapped, the ATF must issue a Certificate of Destruction (CoD). This is an official DVLA document that proves the car has been destroyed.

This document is crucial because it:

• Confirms the car has been legally destroyed
• Removes your responsibility for the vehicle
• Protects you from future fines or penalties

Step 6: DVLA Notification (What You Must Do)

You must tell the DVLA once your car has been scrapped. Until their records are updated, the car is still legally your responsibility.

If you have the V5C logbook, you can do this easily online or by post. Once it’s processed, you’re no longer responsible for the vehicle, and any remaining road tax is automatically refunded.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Scrapping a Car

Many problems happen because people rush the process or don’t know the rules. Here are the common mistakes to avoid:

1. Using an unlicensed scrap dealer
Only Authorised Treatment Facilities (ATFs) can legally scrap cars. Using anyone else can leave you responsible for the vehicle later on.

2. Accepting cash for your car
Cash payments are illegal under UK law. Legitimate scrap dealers will only pay by bank transfer or cheque.

3. Forgetting to tell the DVLA
Even if your car has been collected, you must notify the DVLA. If you don’t, you could still receive fines or penalties.

4. Not getting a Certificate of Destruction
This document proves your car has been scrapped legally. Without it, you have no proof that the vehicle no longer exists.

5. Paying for vehicle collection
Reputable ATFs usually offer free collection. Being asked to pay is often a warning sign.

How Long Does It Take to Scrap a Car?

Scrapping a car is usually quick. In many cases, collection can happen the same day or the next day. Once the car is collected, the ATF will scrap it and issue a Certificate of Destruction, often within a few days.

DVLA records are normally updated shortly after this, and road tax refunds follow soon after. From start to finish, the whole process can often be completed within a week, making it far simpler than most people expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will I get for scrapping my car?

Scrap value depends on your car’s weight, engine type, location, and current scrap metal prices. Smaller cars usually get less, while heavier cars tend to be worth more. Because prices change regularly, legitimate scrap dealers will give a quote rather than a guaranteed price.

Can I scrap a car without a V5C?

Yes, you can still scrap a car without a V5C logbook. You’ll usually need to provide photo ID and confirm you’re the vehicle owner. 

If you lost it, don’t spend money on a replacement. Just write a letter to the DVLA (include your reg, name, date of sale, and the scrapyard’s name/address) telling them you have scrapped it.

Do I need to be the registered keeper?

Technically, no. You need to be the owner. The “Registered Keeper” on the logbook is just the person responsible for taxing it. 

However, if you are not the keeper, the scrapyard will likely demand extra proof of ownership to ensure everything is legal.

Can I scrap a car on finance?

No, you cannot legally scrap a car that is still on finance. The finance company owns the vehicle until the balance is fully paid off. You’ll need to settle the finance first or speak to the finance provider about your options.

How to Scrap an Electric Vehicle (EV)?

Scrapping an electric car in the UK is very similar to scrapping a petrol or diesel car. But the battery needs special handling. EV batteries must be removed safely by a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility, as they can be dangerous if handled incorrectly.

Final Verdict: How to Scrap a Car in the UK?

Scrapping a car in the UK is actually much simpler than it sounds. Once you know the steps, use a licensed ATF, and tell the DVLA, everything falls into place. 

There’s no need to rush or worry about getting it wrong. Take your time, follow the process properly, and you can move on knowing the car has been dealt with legally and hassle-free.