You brought your car to the mechanic shop for repairs, but instead of fixing it, you were told, “It’s not worth fixing”. You may feel panic and wonder what to do.

What Does "Not Worth Fixing" Actually Mean?

When a mechanic says your “car is not worth fixing”, they usually mean your car’s repair cost is more than its original value.

For example, your car’s value is around $3000, but fixing a bad engine will cost you $3700. Even if you make the tough decision to repair it, you’ll still be left with an old car that may require more work soon.

Here are some common reasons why a car may be considered not worth repairing:

• Electrical system failure
• Engine or transmission failure
• Severe rust or flood damaged
• Continuous mechanical issues
• The repair cost is more than the vehicle’s value

Here are practical options to consider, without wasting more time, money and energy.

1. Sell Your Car To Car Wreckers

When your car is beyond repair, selling it to car wreckers can be the easiest and quickest option. They offer instant cash for old, damaged, or unwanted vehicles, with services like free removal. The process is super simple:

• Request a quote online or by phone call
• Schedule the pickup according to a convenient time
• Get paid on the spot when your car is collected.

This option not only helps you get fast cash for cars, but also ensures your vehicle is recycled safely, keeping New Zealand cleaner and reducing waste.

2. Recycle or Sell Usable Car Parts

Even if the car is not roadworthy, many of its parts are still functional. For example, engines, batteries, tyres, and electronics can often be resold. By recycling car parts:

• You can earn extra money.
• Reduce waste by giving auto parts a second life.
• Help other vehicle owners find affordable replacement parts easily.

National Car Parts specialises in purchasing functional parts from old cars and ensuring they are recycled safely for the next user.

3. Donate Your Vehicle

One option is to donate your car to charity. In New Zealand, charities accept vehicles to fund programs or sell parts for revenue. Donating a car can also offer potential tax benefits while supporting a good cause.

4. Trade-In or Sell for Used Car Value

Some cars, even if they need repairs, can still hold some value in the trade-in market. Private buyers or dealers might be interested if the repairs are minor. However, if the vehicle has major maintenance, this option can become more challenging. Before selling:

• Check the current market value of your car.
• Collect all documentation, including registration and service history.
• Prepare the vehicle to make it as appealing as possible to buyers.

Tips Before Selling or Scrapping Your Car

Here are some simple tips to take care of before selling or scrapping a vehicle.

• Remove your items from the vehicle.
• Keep important documents handy.
• When selling parts on your own, make sure to follow safety precautions.
• Make sure the car is clean before inspection.

Being told your car is not worth fixing doesn’t have to be stressful or panic. Car owners have multiple options, such as selling for scrap, recycling parts, donating or trading in. Each option comes with its own benefits, whether it’s quick cash, environmental impact or charitable contribution.