Selling a faulty car can be frustrating, especially if it no longer runs or needs expensive repairs. But there’s a hassle-free way to turn that unwanted vehicle into cash. Whether your car has mechanical issues, electrical faults, or accident damage, you don’t need to let it sit idle. Many car buyers, like us, offer free valuations and fair prices for vehicles others might not want. With the right approach, selling a faulty car is not only possible—it can also be quick and convenient.
Understanding Faulty Vehicle Categories
Before selling, it helps to understand how cars with faults are categorised. Faulty cars include those with engine failure, gearbox problems, warning lights on the dashboard, or failed MOTs. Some might even be declared as Category S (structurally damaged but repairable) or Category N (non-structurally damaged) by insurers. These details impact the vehicle’s resale price and who will buy it. Traders and companies specialising in damaged cars often use diagnostic tools and data to determine whether it’s cost-effective to repair and resell.
Free Car Valuation: What to Expect
One of the first steps is getting a free online or over-the-phone estimate. The process typically requires your car’s registration number, mileage, year, make, and details of any faults. You may also need to upload photos for a more accurate figure. The goal is to value my car based on its current state and the market demand for its parts or potential resale. Reputable buyers don’t charge fees for valuations, and there’s no obligation to sell unless you’re satisfied with the offer.
How Faults Affect Market Value
Faults don’t always mean your car has no value. In fact, some faulty vehicles are highly desirable for parts, especially if the make and model are popular. For example, even if your car won’t start, the catalytic converter, alloy wheels, or electronic modules might still be functional and valuable. Buyers assess whether it’s better to repair and sell or dismantle for salvage.
Selling Broken Cars with Ease
If you’re thinking, “How can I sell my car London with a gearbox issue?”, the good news is that you don’t need to fix it first. Companies that deal with broken cars offer free collection from anywhere, including your workplace or home. Once you accept an offer, a recovery vehicle will usually arrive at the agreed time, and payment is often made instantly via bank transfer. This saves you the time, cost, and hassle of arranging transport or trying to explain the fault to a private buyer.
How to Get the Best Offer
To get offer for my car, start by gathering all necessary documents, such as the V5C logbook, service records, and receipts for any recent work. Be honest about the car’s condition to avoid disputes or reductions in price later. Providing details like the exact fault, warning lights, or noises helps the buyer give a fair and accurate quote. If your car has aftermarket parts or nearly new tyres, highlight those as well—they can increase its value slightly, even with faults present.
Why Businesses Also Sell Faulty Cars
Businesses with company fleets or commercial vans also benefit from selling damaged vehicles. Instead of spending on costly repairs or storage, they often contact services that we buy cars with mechanical or electrical problems. It’s a practical way to clear space, cut losses, and reinvest in newer vehicles. Professional buyers understand commercial needs and offer prompt service with clear communication and paperwork, which is important for maintaining business operations.
Conclusion: Fast, Fair, and Reliable ServiceSelling a faulty car doesn’t have to be stressful. With free valuations, no-obligation quotes, and nationwide collection, it’s easier than ever to turn a damaged vehicle into quick cash. Whether you’re an individual or a business, working with experts who understand the value of broken cars can save time and effort. At Cars Wanted UK, we specialise in buying broken, damaged, faulty, and non-runner cars from 2012 onwards—quickly, fairly, and with free collection anywhere in the UK.
