Dispose of an old car
Driving an older car that’s not roadworthy could incur you a hefty fine and some unnecessary points on your driving licence. If your vehicle is no longer safe or practical to use you may want to dispose of it.
Abandoning a vehicle is a criminal offence, carrying a maximum penalty of a fine of £2,500 or three months' imprisonment, or both. Owners of abandoned vehicles may also be liable for council costs.
End of Life Vehicles
Car owners are entitled to "free take-back" of their old vehicles, known as End of Life Vehicles (ELVs). Car manufacturers have established national networks of existing facilities that will accept their own brands when those vehicles reach the end of their lives. These regulations mean car owners do not need to pay to dispose of their vehicles.
Manufacturers of the vast majority of vehicles in the UK have arrangements with one of the following service providers:
Scrapping a car
Only sites licensed to accept 'end of life vehicles' will be able to accept your vehicle. Information on how to scrap your vehicle is available on GOV.UK website.
The Scrap Metal Dealers’ Act also means it’s against the law to pay for scrap cars in cash in England and Wales – so do not trust anyone who tries to pay in cash.
Donate your old car to charity
If your old car is roadworthy, you can donate it to charity. If you donate your old car, it will either be sold at auction or scrapped.
Most charities will collect it free of charge and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing your car’s value is going to the charity of your choice:
