Selling a faulty car can feel like a hassle, especially if you’re worried about expensive repairs or the vehicle not passing inspection. But the good news is, many car buyers now specialise in buying damaged or non-running cars without requiring any fixes. Whether your vehicle has engine issues, electrical faults, or body damage, you can still get a fair deal without investing more money. This blog explains how you can sell a faulty car quickly, safely, and for a good price—even if it doesn’t drive. We’ll also guide you on what to expect from the process and how to make the most of your sale.
Why Repair Costs Aren’t Always Worth It
When your car breaks down, one of the first things you may consider is fixing it before selling. However, major faults like gearbox failure or engine problems can cost thousands of pounds. Selling without repairs saves you money and effort, especially if your car is more than ten years old or has a history of problems. Faulty airbags, worn-out suspension, or recurring diagnostic warning lights can all drive up repair bills. Instead of spending more, selling as-is is often the smarter choice.
How Faulty Cars Still Hold Value
Even broken or faulty vehicles have components that buyers find valuable. From catalytic converters and alternators to alloy wheels and infotainment systems, many parts retain resale value. Some specialist buyers are equipped to assess the potential of these parts and offer a fair price based on this. The resale value also depends on the car’s make, model, mileage, and age. For instance, a 2015 diesel saloon with engine issues may still attract good offers due to high demand for its parts. Getting a proper car valuation from a buyer experienced with faulty vehicles ensures you don’t undersell.
Selling Process Without Complications
The process to sell your faulty car is much easier than many people expect. Most buyers who deal with non-running or damaged vehicles provide instant online quotes. After filling out a basic form with your vehicle registration, mileage, and fault description, you can receive a cash offer in minutes. Once accepted, collection is usually arranged at no cost to you. The vehicle is picked up from your home or workplace at a time that suits you. Documentation, such as the V5C and service history (if available), can help speed up the process. This method is ideal when you want to sell my car fast without the burden of private listings or mechanical inspections.
Who Buys Faulty Cars in the UK
You don’t need to search far and wide to find companies interested in your broken car. Many nationwide firms now operate with online portals, making it easy to get a deal quickly. If you’re looking for someone to sell car near me, local car buyers and national services alike are ready to make offers. The advantage of using a trusted buyer is that you avoid dealing with unreliable individuals or time-wasting negotiations. These businesses know how to evaluate faulty cars properly and pay what the vehicle is truly worth in its current condition.
What Buyers Are Looking For
Professional buyers usually seek cars from 2012 onwards, regardless of condition. They look for models with high parts demand or those that can be resold after repair. While full service history and MOT records help, they’re not always necessary. Buyers often request photos or a basic list of faults. Transparency is important—be clear about engine warning lights, accident history, or if the car won’t start. Companies that state we buy cars often work with a wider range of faults, including non-runners and those declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), so don’t rule out your vehicle too soon.
Final Thoughts – Sell Without the Stress
You don’t need to clean, repair, or advertise your faulty car to sell it. With the right buyer, even non-runners with major issues can be sold easily and legally. Make sure you work with a company that provides clear communication, honest pricing, and handles the collection for free. Whether you’re a business clearing your fleet or an individual with a faulty vehicle on your driveway, selling can be fast, simple, and worthwhile.For a quick and fair sale anywhere in the UK, contact Cars Wanted UK. We specialise in buying broken, damaged, faulty, and non-runner cars from 2012 onwards, offering free collection and competitive cash offers without any hidden charges.
