When your car won’t start, it can feel like the end of the road. But the reality is far from it. Many Australians are in the same boat, dealing with vehicles that have mechanical issues or have simply stopped running. If you’re thinking, “How can I sell my car when it doesn’t even turn on?”, there are still options available to you.
This guide breaks down what to do when you want to sell your car, even if it’s not driveable. From understanding your vehicle’s true value to exploring fast, hassle-free solutions, there’s still plenty of hope.
First: Understand Why Your Car Won’t Start
Before taking any further steps, it’s worth understanding the issue. Common reasons a car won’t start include:
- Dead battery
- Starter motor failure
- Ignition switch issues
- Fuel pump problems
- Electrical faults
Knowing whether the issue is minor or major can help you set realistic expectations when it comes time to sell.
Do You Need to Repair It Before Selling?
Many sellers believe they must repair their car before putting it on the market. But that’s not always the best course of action. If you’re trying to sell your car quickly, repairs might cost more than the vehicle’s resale value.
Ask yourself:
- Is the repair worth the cost?
- Will it dramatically increase resale value?
- Do I have the time or funds to organise a mechanic?
In many cases, it’s more economical to sell the car as-is, especially if you’re dealing with an older model or significant mechanical issues.
Can You Still Sell a Non-Running Car?
Absolutely. While it might be difficult to sell your car through traditional marketplaces when it doesn’t start, there are services that specialise in non-running vehicles. These buyers often value your car for its parts, scrap metal, or salvage potential. Some may even offer to tow it free of charge.
At Cars4Us, we understand that not every car is in perfect condition. We buy vehicles in all states, including those that don’t start. Our streamlined process ensures that owners of broken or non-functioning cars can still walk away with cash in hand.
Be Honest About the Condition
If you try to sell your car privately and it doesn’t start, transparency is key. Always describe the issue accurately in any listings or communications with potential buyers. This will save you time and prevent disputes.
However, if you choose to go through a car buying service like ours, you won’t need to worry about marketing your vehicle or dealing with tyre-kickers. We’ll assess your car based on the details you provide and offer a fair price with no hidden catches.
How Much Can You Expect to Get?
Prices vary depending on:
- The make and model
- The year
- The nature of the damage
- Whether the vehicle has registration or roadworthy documentation
Even broken cars have value. Some models are in high demand for parts, while others still hold strong scrap metal worth. In many cases, sellers are surprised by how much they can still earn when they go through the right platform.
What to Prepare Before You Sell
If you want to get the process moving, have the following ready:
- Proof of ownership
- Photo ID
- A brief summary of the car’s condition
- Your location
That’s it. You won’t need to worry about getting it to a mechanic or organising a roadworthy certificate. With a professional buying service, those steps are unnecessary.
Why Use a Car Buying Service?
Trying to sell a car that doesn’t start can be incredibly time-consuming if done privately. You’ll likely receive lowball offers or no offers at all. Using a professional buying service takes the hassle out of the equation. At Cars4Us, we provide:
- Instant online valuations
- Same-day quotes
- Free vehicle pickup (even if it doesn’t start)
- Fast payment directly to your account
No stress, no delays, no unnecessary repairs.
If you’re wondering how to sell my car when it’s not running, remember that you still have valuable options. Don’t waste time listing it online or paying for expensive repairs you may not recover in the sale price.
Even broken cars have value — find out yours today.Visit Cars4Us or contact our team to learn how easy it is to sell a car that won’t start.
