Last updated: October 2024 · Prices based on live scrap steel market rates
Current UK Scrap Car Prices by Vehicle Type
Scrap prices fluctuate with the global steel market. The table below shows typical prices at the current steel rate of approximately £145 per tonne for HMS (Heavy Melting Steel).
| Vehicle Type | Typical Weight | Scrap Price Range | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small city car (Fiat 500, VW Up) | 850 – 1,000 kg | £140 – £240 | £190 |
| Supermini (Fiesta, Polo, Corsa) | 1,050 – 1,250 kg | £185 – £310 | £250 |
| Hatchback (Golf, Focus, Astra) | 1,250 – 1,450 kg | £225 – £360 | £295 |
| Saloon / estate | 1,400 – 1,700 kg | £265 – £425 | £345 |
| MPV / people carrier | 1,550 – 1,900 kg | £295 – £480 | £390 |
| SUV / 4x4 (small) | 1,600 – 1,900 kg | £305 – £480 | £395 |
| SUV / 4x4 (large) | 1,900 – 2,500 kg | £390 – £620 | £510 |
| Small van (Transit Connect, Berlingo) | 1,500 – 1,900 kg | £295 – £475 | £385 |
| Medium van (Transit, Sprinter) | 2,000 – 2,800 kg | £400 – £690 | £545 |
What Affects the Scrap Price of a Car?
Steel price. The biggest single factor. UK scrap dealers buy cars primarily as steel. When global steel demand rises, so does the price. In 2022, prices spiked to over £200 per tonne; they have since settled back. You can track live steel prices at the London Metal Exchange.
Vehicle weight. Heavier cars are worth more for scrap. A large SUV contains far more steel than a city car. When getting a quote, dealers will either weigh your car or use the manufacturer's kerb weight to calculate an offer.
Condition. A complete car with all its main components (engine, gearbox, catalytic converter, wheels, battery) will get a better price than one that has been stripped. Missing a catalytic converter in particular can reduce the value significantly — cats contain platinum, palladium and rhodium and are worth hundreds of pounds on their own.
Non-ferrous metals. Catalytic converters, aluminium alloy wheels, copper wiring and the battery (especially on electric vehicles) can add significantly to the scrap value of a car over and above the steel alone.
Location. Scrap prices can vary by 10–15% across different parts of the UK. Areas with many competing ATFs tend to offer better prices. Using a comparison service like Scrap Car Check ensures you get the best local rate.
Scrap Prices for Popular Models
Here are current estimated scrap prices for common UK cars in average condition:
- Ford Fiesta (2010–2019): £210 – £290
- Volkswagen Golf (2010–2020): £255 – £345
- Ford Focus (2010–2018): £240 – £330
- Vauxhall Corsa (2006–2019): £190 – £270
- BMW 3 Series: £280 – £390
- Renault Clio: £185 – £260
- Nissan Qashqai: £320 – £440
- Toyota RAV4: £350 – £490
- Ford Transit (medium roof): £460 – £640
- Land Rover Discovery: £430 – £590
How to Get the Best Scrap Price
Compare multiple dealers. The easiest way to get the best price is to use a comparison service — the spread between the highest and lowest quote is often £50–£100, which is pure money left on the table if you only call one dealer.
Keep your catalytic converter. Do not let anyone remove your catalytic converter before collection. The full-car price will be higher than the scrap metal price for the cat alone.
Check if any parts have individual sale value. Before scrapping, check whether any individual parts — alloy wheels, infotainment systems, seats — are worth selling separately on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. This takes more effort but can add to the total return.