If your vehicle has a blown engine or a transmission that’s slipping, clunking, or simply won’t shift, you’re probably staring at a repair bill that costs more than the car is worth. It’s a common situation and one that leaves many car owners unsure of what to do next. A car that won’t move or runs poorly doesn’t attract much buyer interest, and even if it has some life left in it, buyers are hesitant to take on major mechanical problems. That’s when your vehicle starts to fall into the “junk” category—even if it still looks good from the outside.
When you’re stuck with a non-working car and don’t want to waste time or money, sites like byecar.com make it easier to get rid of it fast and get paid fairly.
Why Major Repairs Turn a Car Into a Junk Vehicle
Cars with significant engine or transmission issues are extremely hard to sell through the usual channels. That’s because most people shopping for a used vehicle want something reliable, or at least something they can test drive. A car that won’t start or move on its own is a red flag to buyers and a major burden to the seller.
Even if you’ve kept up with oil changes, new tires, and recent inspections, those don’t matter much when your engine throws a rod, or the transmission refuses to go into gear. Most shops quote thousands of dollars for a full replacement, and the harsh truth is that most vehicles simply aren’t worth that kind of investment. Once your car becomes more valuable in parts than it is as a whole, it officially becomes a junk vehicle.
Selling It Privately Can Take Time and Effort
You might think listing your car online will bring in a few interested buyers willing to take on the project. In theory, that’s possible—but in practice, it’s rare. Private buyers usually want to test drive the car, ask lots of questions, and then haggle on price, especially once they realize they’ll have to tow it away. Most buyers today are looking for turn-key transportation, not a garage project.
Even if someone agrees to buy the car as-is, you still have to manage the title transfer, arrange a time for them to pick it up, and hope they don’t change their mind or disappear without notice. The process can stretch out for weeks, and in the meantime, your car just sits there taking up space.
Junkyards Might Not Offer What You Expect
Another option is to sell the vehicle to a local scrap yard. They’ll usually take just about anything, but they don’t always pay much. Junkyards typically value vehicles by weight, not condition, so it doesn’t matter if you just put on new brakes or a battery. If your car has a failed engine or transmission, they’ll see it as scrap metal, not a salvageable asset.
Some yards may also ask you to bring the car to them, which means paying for a tow truck out of your own pocket. You might also have to fill out DMV paperwork on your own or make several calls just to get a quote. It’s not the most convenient choice, and in many cases, it leaves sellers frustrated and underpaid.
Benefits of Selling to a Junk Car Dealer That Buys All Conditions
The easiest and most profitable route is to work with a junk car buyer who specializes in vehicles with major issues. These companies buy cars no matter their condition—high mileage, body damage, mechanical failure, or missing parts. Here’s what sets them apart:
- They accept all vehicles: Whether your car has a seized engine or no transmission at all, they’ll still make you an offer
- You don’t pay for towing: They send a truck to your location and pick up the vehicle for free
- Quick cash offers: Payment usually happens on the spot or within 24 hours
- They handle the paperwork: Title transfer, DMV forms, and other documents are taken care of
- No haggling or sales pressure: You get a quote, and if you accept it, the process moves forward quickly
This method removes the stress and guesswork and lets you trade a non-functioning car for immediate payment.
Get Paid and Move On From That Unfixable Car
If your car’s engine is shot or your transmission won’t shift, you don’t need to sink more money into it or waste time with lowball offers. Getting cash for a junk car is simple when you work with professionals who buy vehicles in any condition. You’ll save time, avoid towing costs, and finally get rid of that car that’s been sitting there collecting dust. Reach out today to find out what your junk car is worth—and get paid to move forward.