How to Scrap a Car in Toronto (2026): A Step-by-Step Guide

Have an old car sitting in your driveway that no longer starts, needs expensive repairs or simply isn't worth selling privately?

Scrapping the vehicle may be a practical way to recover some money while freeing up valuable space.

Toronto has businesses that purchase unwanted vehicles, dismantle them for reusable parts and recycle their materials.

Before arranging pickup, though, there are a few important things you need to know about ownership, paperwork and pricing.

1. Find Out Whether Your Car Is Worth Scrapping

Not every old or damaged car should immediately be sent for scrap.

If your vehicle still runs and requires relatively inexpensive repairs, it might be worth more as a used car than as scrap.

However, scrapping becomes more attractive when:

• The engine or transmission has failed.
• The car has significant collision damage.
• Rust or mechanical problems make repairs uneconomical.
• The vehicle has been parked for years.
• You want to clear space without managing a private sale.

If you're unsure, compare the cost of repairing the vehicle against its realistic resale value.

You can also review We're Local's Toronto auto repair guide when deciding whether repairs are worth exploring.

2. How Much Is a Scrap Car Worth in Toronto?

There is no universal amount that every scrap-car buyer will pay.

The offer depends on the individual vehicle and the buyer's business model.

Important factors include:

Vehicle weight: Larger vehicles can contain more recoverable metal, although weight alone doesn't determine the price.

Make and model: Some cars have reusable components that may be valuable to dismantlers.

Vehicle condition: Missing engines, catalytic converters, wheels or other components may affect the offer.

Current material prices: Scrap-metal markets change, which can influence what recyclers are willing to pay.

Location and towing: Collecting an immobile vehicle from a difficult location can affect the economics of the purchase.

Rather than relying on an advertised maximum payout, request quotations using your vehicle's actual details.

3. Prepare Your Ownership Documents

In Ontario, vehicle ownership is documented through the vehicle permit, commonly called the ownership or green slip.

Before selling a vehicle, confirm that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) matches your paperwork.

You should also check whether any outstanding loan or lien affects your ability to transfer ownership.

For an ordinary private used-vehicle sale, Ontario generally requires a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP), unless an applicable exemption applies. Ask the recycler whether its transaction falls under an exemption rather than assuming the requirements are identical for every scrap sale.

You should also expect to document the transaction with a bill of sale or equivalent receipt identifying the vehicle and purchaser.

The Ontario government's used-vehicle sale guide explains the normal requirements.

4. Remove Your Licence Plates

Before handing over your vehicle, remove your licence plates.

Ontario licence plates belong to the registered plate holder, not the vehicle itself.

You can generally keep the plates for another vehicle or return them to ServiceOntario.

Make sure the appropriate vehicle ownership transfer paperwork is completed and that you retain the plate portion of the permit.

Don't hand over your plates simply because the car is headed for dismantling.

5. Arrange Scrap Car Pickup in Toronto

Many scrap-car businesses offer towing or pickup, which is useful when the vehicle no longer runs.

When contacting a buyer, provide:

• Vehicle year, make and model
• General condition
• Whether it starts and moves
• Whether the tyres and wheels are attached
• Whether the keys and ownership documents are available
• The pickup location
• Any access restrictions

This is especially important for cars stored in underground garages, narrow driveways or locations where a tow truck may have difficulty entering.

Ask whether towing is included in the quoted purchase price.

6. Compare the Final Amount You'll Receive

A business advertising a high price doesn't necessarily offer the best deal.

For example, a higher initial quote can become less attractive if the buyer deducts towing or handling costs.

When comparing offers, confirm:

1. The final amount payable for the vehicle
2. Whether towing is included
3. Any deductions for missing parts
4. How and when payment will be made
5. The ownership documentation required
6. Whether a receipt will be provided

Get the important terms confirmed before the pickup.

7. Complete the Sale and Deal With Your Insurance

Once you're satisfied with the buyer and price, complete the appropriate ownership transfer documentation.

Keep copies of the bill of sale or receipt, including the buyer's details, vehicle identification number and transaction date.

The purchaser is normally responsible for completing the registration process within the required period, but you should ensure your side of the transfer is properly documented.

Contact your insurance provider to arrange the appropriate cancellation or policy change once the vehicle transfer is completed.

Keep the transaction documentation with your other vehicle records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I scrap a car that doesn't run?

Yes. Many scrap-car businesses purchase non-running vehicles and arrange towing.

Can I scrap a car without keys?

Some recyclers can collect vehicles without keys, but specialist loading equipment may be necessary. Confirm this when requesting a quotation.

Can I scrap a car without ownership papers?

Missing paperwork can complicate the transaction. Contact ServiceOntario about the appropriate replacement documents or ownership requirements before proceeding.

Do I need to remove my licence plates?

Yes. Ontario requires the outgoing owner to remove their plates when transferring the vehicle.

Is towing included when scrapping a car in Toronto?

It depends on the company and the specific quotation. Always confirm whether pickup fees will be deducted from your payment.

Should I repair my car or scrap it?

Compare the expected resale value after repairs against the full repair cost and the amount a recycler offers. A car with minor problems may still be worth selling rather than scrapping.

Final Thoughts

Scrapping a car in Toronto doesn't have to be complicated, but getting the paperwork and final payment right matters.

Compare quotes from more than one buyer, remove your plates, confirm the ownership transfer process and keep a written record of the transaction.

For more automotive services and local business information, browse We're Local's Toronto directory.

Vehicle transfer information based on Ontario guidance available in October 2026. Requirements vary by transaction type.