Junk Car Prices in Adelaide (2025) – What People Are Really Getting
Well, in Adelaide this year, junk car prices are all over the map — some people are cashing in for $300, while others are raking in $800 or more. And then there are the unfortunate ones who barely get enough for a takeaway dinner.
If you’re thinking about selling a junk car in 2025, let’s break down what really influences the price, what’s considered fair, and how to steer clear of getting shortchanged.
How Junk Car Prices Are Decided in Adelaide
When you reach out to a “cash for junk cars” service, here’s what goes into their offer:
- Metal value – Since your car is mostly metal, when scrap prices rise, so does your payout. These metal markets are always changing based on global supply and demand.
- Vehicle weight – Bigger SUVs and utes usually fetch more than smaller hatchbacks. Heavier vehicles contain more scrap metal, which usually increases the cash value you receive.
- Parts worth selling – Got some good rims, a working battery, or an engine that still runs? That’s extra cash in your pocket. Car batteries alone are valued at about $7-9 each in Adelaide’s current market, and salvageable parts are in high demand due to ongoing vehicle shortages.
- Condition – If your car runs or can be repaired, you could get a lot more than if it’s just a hunk of metal. Running vehicles can sell for 20-40% more than non-running ones because they’re immediately usable or easier to strip for parts.
- Pickup location – If you’re in the outer suburbs, towing costs might eat into the offer (unless it’s complimentary). Most reputable services now provide free towing within Adelaide’s metropolitan area.
Junk Car Price Ranges in Adelaide (2025)
Vehicle Type | Condition | Price Range (AUD) |
Small Hatchback | Not running | $200 – $350 |
Small Hatchback | Running | $300 – $500 |
Sedan | Not running | $250 – $400 |
Sedan | Running | $400 – $600 |
SUV / 4WD | Not running | $350 – $500 |
SUV / 4WD | Running | $500 – $800 |
Ute / Van | Not running | $350 – $550 |
Ute / Van | Running | $500 – $900 |
The current vehicle shortage in Australia has pushed used car prices up by about 29% compared to 2020 levels. This means even junk cars are worth more now than they were a few years ago. People are desperate for spare parts to keep older vehicles running.
Tips for Getting the Best Price for Your Junk Car
Don’t take the first offer. Some buyers will offer very low prices. The industry average is around $511, so anything significantly below $300 for a complete car should raise red flags. Call at least three different services to compare quotes.
Drop in the important details. Mention any working parts, current registration, or extras like new tires or a battery. These facts can increase your quote by $50 to $200, depending on the components.
Confirm free towing. Some ads claim “free removal” but include fees later. Reliable services, like those offering guaranteed quotes for seven days, usually have genuine free towing.
Know your car’s weight and model. Bigger or rarer cars can be worth much more. European luxury vehicles usually contain more valuable metals and parts compared to standard Japanese models.
Sell quickly if prices are high. Metal markets change constantly. With scrap prices near 12-month highs, waiting could cost you if prices drop.
Get everything in writing. Verbal quotes are not reliable. Trusted companies provide written estimates that they honor upon vehicle inspection.
Best Ways to Sell a Junk Car in Adelaide
Adelaide Jap Dismantlers: Quick pickup, instant payment, and no hassle. Companies like CarTakeBack and local wreckers offer up to $9,999 for suitable vehicles with same-day service.
Private Sale (as-is): You can get more money if it runs, but it may take longer. With used car prices up 29%, this option has become more appealing for anything still roadworthy.
WeBuyUrCar: They offer quick removal, but usually the lowest payout. However, they are guaranteed buyers regardless of condition and handle all paperwork.
Scrap Metal Dealers: This is best for vehicles that are purely metal without salvageable parts. Current scrap metal prices in Adelaide are updated regularly, making this a good option for completely stripped vehicles.
What’s Really Happening in Adelaide’s Junk Car Market
The pandemic effect continues to push prices higher. With new car shortages lasting into 2025, Australians are keeping older vehicles longer. This creates huge demand for spare parts. Your “worthless” junk car might have exactly what someone needs.
Adelaide’s automotive history also plays a part. As the former home of GM Holden manufacturing, the city has a strong automotive infrastructure and knowledge. This allows local wreckers to often get more value from vehicles than in other cities.
Current market reality: Companies now offer guaranteed quotes and beat competitor prices because the competition is intense. The days of lowball offers with take-it-or-leave-it attitudes are mostly over.
Bottom Line
In Adelaide, junk car payouts in 2025 range from $200 to $900+, depending on your car’s size, condition, and market timing. With the current average scrap value at $511 nationally, any offer below $300 for a complete vehicle should raise questions.
Key factors driving higher prices include ongoing vehicle shortages, high scrap metal values, and rising competition among buyers. If you shop around and know your car’s worth, you can easily land in the higher range.
Pro Tip: Always get the payment before they tow it away, and cancel your registration right after to avoid ongoing fees.
