$500 Cash For Junk Cars
We pay up $500 cash for junk cars that have reached the end of their life when they have a title and are heavier in weight.
What Kinds of Junk Cars Typically Sell for $500?
We pay around $500 cash for junk cars that have have the title but little to no salvageable parts. These vehicles are pure scrap vehicles priced by weight and current scrap metal rates. If your car is complete, heavy, and accessible, you can often land near $500.
- End-of-life trucks/SUVs (heavier, 4,800–5,500 lbs)
Non-running, high miles, severe cosmetic or mechanical issues, minimal parts value — but strong scrap weight. - Older vans and crossovers with no salvageable components
Drivetrain is blown or uneconomical to repair; interiors and panels have little demand. - Flood/fire/stripped vehicles that are still complete enough to tow
When parts value is gone, weight sets the price.
Learn more about getting cash for junk cars and how it all works.
Scrap Math: Why ~$500 Shows Up (Per Ton)
Estimates based on short tons (2,000 lbs). Actual offers vary by access, title status, and market.
| Vehicle Weight | @ $150/ton | @ $180/ton | @ $210/ton |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3,000 lbs (1.50 t) | $225 | $270 | $315 |
| 3,400 lbs (1.70 t) | $255 | $306 | $357 |
| 4,000 lbs (2.00 t) | $300 | $360 | $420 |
| 4,800 lbs (2.40 t) | $360 | $432 | $504 |
| 5,200 lbs (2.60 t) | $390 | $468 | $546 |
| 6,000 lbs (3.00 t) | $450 | $540 | $630 |
Prices are primarily based on the current scrap value for cars.
How to Hit the $500 Scrap Tier
To maximize your offer and get as close to $500 cash for your junk car do the following.
- Keep the OEM catalytic converter installed. Removing it usually drops the offer well below $500.
- Provide title and keys (or your state’s approved alternative). Buyers price risk into offers.
- Ensure easy access for towing. Clear obstacles; inflate tires so it rolls; share gate codes.
- Sell while rates hold. Scrap markets move; locking an offer can preserve a $500 quote.
What Pushes Offers Below $500
Some junk cars simply are not worth $500. Here's the types that generally command lower offers.
- Missing converter, incomplete vehicle (no engine/trans), or heavy stripping
- No title in a title-required state
- Remote or winch-only recovery with extra labor
- Severe flood/fire that removes remaining metal/parts value
Examples of Junk Cars Worth $500 in Scrap Value
These junk vehicles recently sold for $500 cash.
2004 Ford Explorer
Non-running · Rusted rockers · Complete converter
Why it landed near $500: SUV weight + intact converter; easy driveway pickup.
2006 Dodge Grand Caravan
Transmission failure · Interior worn · Complete drivetrain
Why it landed near $500: Van curb weight; no parts premium but solid scrap value.
2003 Chevy Tahoe
High miles · Cosmetic damage · Converter present
Why it landed near $500: Heavy chassis; quick access reduced towing cost.
FAQ About Getting $500 Junk Cars
See if Your Junker is Worth $500
Junk Car Reaper prices end-of-life vehicles by weight and current scrap rates. Enter your VIN and condition to see if your junk car qualifies for around $500. Most quotes take 90 seconds.