How Are Scrap Car Prices Determined?
Scrap car prices are based on two main factors: vehicle weight and scrap metal rates per ton. Together, they establish your car’s baseline scrap value. However, salvageable parts, such such as catalytic converters or aluminum wheels, can significantly increase the payout beyond this base value.
How to Calculate the Scrap Value of a Car
- Find your vehicle's weight: Use Junk Car Reaper’s vehicle weight lookup tool, or check your owner’s manual or driver’s side door.
- Check local scrap metal prices: Look up the current rates per ton in your area.
- Multiply weight × price per ton: This gives you the base scrap value of your vehicle.
Example to demonstrate value beyond scrap: A 2-ton vehicle at $175 per ton = $350 base value. If it has a catalytic converter worth $100 and aluminum wheels worth $150, the total estimated value could rise to $600.
Factors That Increase a Car's Value Beyond Scrap
Scrap car prices are used to determine the base value of a car. However, a junk car can be worth significantly more than its scrap value if it still drives, is in better condition, has valuable parts, or has market or resale demand. Here is a list of valuable car parts that can increase your junk car's overall value beyond its base scrap metal worth:
Here is a list of valuable car parts that can increase your junk car's value:
- Catalytic Converter: +$50-$450 (highest theft item due to platinum/palladium)
- Aluminum Wheels: +$50-$200 (4 wheels = 60-80 lbs aluminum)
- Copper Radiator: +$40-$80 (10-20 lbs pure copper)
- Battery: +$10-$20 (lead core value)
- Wire Harness: +$20-$40 (concentrated copper)
The valuable parts listed above significantly contribute to a vehicle's worth beyond its raw metal content. For even more in-depth information on how these factors and others can maximize your junk car's total value, you can read: How much are junk cars worth?
Current Scrap Values of a Vehicle by Weight
A car’s weight is the main factor in its scrap value. Larger vehicles, such as trucks weighing 6,000 pounds (3 tons), are worth more than smaller sedans at 3,000 pounds (1.5 tons). Since most vehicles are 55–65% steel, weight remains the primary factor. Completeness also matters because if components are missing, that will decrease the vehicle's weight.
At current rates of $155–$205 per ton, here’s how much different vehicles bring when scrapped:
| Vehicle Weight | Estimated Scrap Value |
|---|---|
| 2,000 lbs (Compact Car) | $155.00 to $205.00 |
| 3,000 lbs (Midsize Sedan) | $232.50 to $307.50 |
| 4,000 lbs (SUV) | $310.00 to $410.00 |
| 5,000 lbs (Truck) | $387.50 to $512.50 |
| 7,000 lbs (Large Truck) | $465.00 to $717.50 |
*Estimated weights based on typical curb weight references. These prices reflect scrap metal value of complete vehicles.
View current scrap values of popular vehicle models:
Scrap Car Prices Per Ton
Scrap rates per ton reflect the current market for metals. In September 2025, rates range from $155–$205 per ton (about $0.0775–$0.1025 per pound) across the U.S. with a national average of $180/ton. Most vehicles are 65–70% steel, so steel prices drive payouts. Aluminum-heavy imports or copper-rich wiring can boost values further.
Rates differ across states and cities. Areas with active steel mills, ports, or high competition typically pay more, while remote areas pay less. Here are examples of per-ton scrap prices across the U.S.:
Price per Ton
Our Methodology
We collect data from numerous metal recycling facilities nationwide to assemble our pricing map. Junk Car Reaper stays up with scrap car prices in locations across the U.S. because it enables us to make the best offers for vehicles. Prices shown are average market rates per ton for scrap vehicles. Actual prices may vary based on current metal market conditions, vehicle condition, and local demand. Hover over any state to see detailed pricing information.
The table below provides a regional state-by-state breakdown of scrap car prices per ton currently.
| State | Estimated Price Range | Complete Car Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Alaska | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Arizona | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| Arkansas | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| California | $175 to $205 | $175.00 to $717.50 |
| Colorado | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| Connecticut | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| Delaware | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Florida | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Georgia | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Hawaii | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Idaho | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Illinois | $170 to $200 | $170.00 to $700.00 |
| Indiana | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| Iowa | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Kansas | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Kentucky | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Louisiana | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Maine | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Maryland | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Massachusetts | $170 to $200 | $170.00 to $700.00 |
| Michigan | $175 to $205 | $175.00 to $717.50 |
| Minnesota | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Mississippi | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Missouri | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Montana | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Nebraska | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Nevada | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| New Hampshire | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| New Jersey | $170 to $200 | $170.00 to $700.00 |
| New Mexico | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| New York | $170 to $200 | $170.00 to $700.00 |
| North Carolina | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| North Dakota | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| Ohio | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| Oklahoma | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Oregon | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| Pennsylvania | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| Rhode Island | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| South Carolina | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| South Dakota | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Tennessee | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Texas | $165 to $195 | $165.00 to $682.50 |
| Utah | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Vermont | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
| Virginia | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Washington | $160 to $190 | $160.00 to $665.00 |
| West Virginia | $150 to $180 | $150.00 to $630.00 |
| Wisconsin | $155 to $185 | $155.00 to $647.50 |
| Wyoming | $145 to $175 | $145.00 to $612.50 |
Current Market Conditions & Analysis
Current Market Indicators
- Market Direction: ↗️ Rising (+9.5% since February 2025)
- 12-Month High: $185/ton (August 2025)
- 12-Month Low: $115/ton (January 2025)
- Current Avg Price: $180/ton (September 2025)
- Projected Trend: Stable growth expected through Q3
What Drives Scrap Car Prices
- Vehicle Weight: Heavier cars are more valuable.
- Metal Composition: Aluminum & copper increase value.
- Vehicle Completeness: Missing parts reduces weight.
- Location: Demand and yard capacity.
- Current Market: Metal prices fluctuate.
FAQs About Scrap Car Prices
How often do scrap car prices change?
Scrap car prices fluctuate weekly due to global market activity, local supply, and seasonal demand. Summer months, including August, tend to see higher prices due to construction and manufacturing activity. Expect weekly shifts of 3–7% and monthly changes of up to 20%.
Is now a good time to scrap my car?
Yes. Scrap car prices are still strong as we head into the fall season, with current rates trending above the 12-month average. Seasonal demand and stable commodity prices make September still a favorable time to sell. Waiting further into fall could mean a 10–15% drop in value based on historic trends.
Why does the scrap price of a car fluctuate?
Scrap prices fluctuate due to global demand for steel, copper, and aluminum. Economic cycles, trade activity, and seasonal shifts all influence the market. Even local supply levels can cause rapid changes in payout rates.
Does a missing catalytic converter reduce a junk car’s value?
Yes. Catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum and rhodium, and removing one can reduce your payout by $50–$450, depending on type and vehicle.
Does vehicle condition affect scrap value?
Only slightly. Scrap value is primarily based on weight and metal content. However, complete vehicles with reusable parts may receive a slightly higher payout.
Are older cars worth more or less as scrap?
Older vehicles often contain more steel and fewer lightweight alloys, which can boost scrap value. However, lighter curb weights may offset this advantage.
What is a car shell worth in scrap?
A stripped car shell weighs less but still contains recyclable steel. Depending on weight, expect $100 to $300 based on current rates of $160–$210 per ton.
Can I negotiate scrap car prices?
Yes. While scrap pricing is mostly based on weight, getting multiple quotes and understanding your vehicle’s components can help you negotiate a better offer.
Get Your Car's Exact Scrap Value Today
Don't guess your car's worth based on weight alone. We calculate exact value including all metals, parts, and current regional prices. Average customer receives 20-30% more than basic scrap calculations suggest.