Scrap Values of a Vehicle by Weight
A vehicle’s weight is the primary factor used to calculate its scrap value. Heavier vehicles contain more recoverable metal and therefore receive higher payouts. For example, large trucks weighing around 6,000 pounds (3 tons) are worth more as scrap than compact cars weighing 2,000–3,000 pounds (1–1.5 tons).
Vehicle completeness also matters. Missing components reduce total weight, while intact parts such as the engine, transmission, and catalytic converter can increase a vehicle’s overall value. Catalytic converters are especially important because they contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium.
Because most vehicles are approximately 55–65% steel, scrap metal pricing has a direct impact on total payout. Based on our current pricing of $140–$175 per ton (national average $165 per ton), the table below shows estimated scrap values by vehicle weight.
| Vehicle Type & Weight | Estimated Scrap Value |
|---|---|
| 2,000 lbs (Compact Car, ~1 ton) | $140–$175 |
| 3,000 lbs (Midsize Sedan, ~1.5 tons) | $210–$262 |
| 4,000 lbs (SUV, ~2 tons) | $280–$350 |
| 5,000 lbs (Pickup Truck, ~2.5 tons) | $350–$437 |
| 6,000 lbs (Large Truck, ~3 tons) | $420–$525 |
*Weights are approximate based on average curb weights. Values shown reflect the base scrap value of complete vehicles using our current per-ton pricing. Actual offers may be higher if the vehicle includes reusable or high-value components.
Complete Vehicles vs. Stripped Car Shells
A complete vehicle typically receives a higher payout than a stripped car shell, even when total weight is similar. Engines, transmissions, and catalytic converters add recoverable value beyond raw steel.
Stripped vehicles missing major components are valued closer to their bare scrap weight.
What Vehicle Weight Does Not Account For
Vehicle weight sets a baseline scrap value, but it does not reflect the full value of a junk car. Factors such as missing components, aftermarket parts, or reusable items can significantly change the final offer.
This is why two vehicles of the same weight may receive different payouts.
See Current Scrap Car Prices Near You
The values above show how vehicle weight affects scrap pricing. For live pricing based on your location and current buyer demand, view our up-to-date scrap car prices page.
