How Much Is My Scrap Car Worth in Canada?
A scrap car in Canada is typically worth $200–$1,000 CADdepending on the vehicle's weight, catalytic converter, condition, and province. Use the free calculator below for an instant estimate based on your specific vehicle and current steel prices.
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Quick answer
$200–$600
Typical car or compact SUV
$400–$850
Full-size pickup or SUV
$80–$200
OEM catalytic converter alone
Based on Ontario steel at $0.18–$0.22/kg and OEM catalytic converter at $80–$200. Ranges reflect condition differences. Updated 2026-06-15.
What determines scrap car value
Four factors drive the price. Understanding them helps you negotiate a better offer.
Steel weight — the biggest driver
A typical car is 60–70% steel by weight. At current Ontario rates of $0.18–$0.22 per kg, a 1,400 kg sedan generates $250–$308 in steel value alone. Heavier vehicles — trucks, full-size SUVs — earn significantly more.
Catalytic converter
An OEM (original factory) catalytic converter contains platinum, palladium, and rhodium and is worth $80–$200 on its own. An aftermarket replacement is worth $20–$50. A missing or stolen cat reduces your offer by $80–$150 — yards notice immediately.
Vehicle condition
A car that runs and drives earns the most. A car that starts but won't drive is next. A car that won't start is worth the same as steel weight plus parts. Major damage (flood, fire, rollover) further reduces value. The difference between running and non-running is typically $50–$150.
Your province
Steel prices vary by region depending on proximity to steel mills and export ports. Ontario and BC tend to have the highest scrap prices. Saskatchewan is typically the lowest. The difference between the highest and lowest province is around $0.03–$0.05 per kg — meaningful on a 1,500 kg vehicle.
Scrap car value by vehicle type
Ontario prices with OEM catalytic converter present. Non-running vehicles are typically $50–$150 lower. Missing catalytic converter reduces value by $80–$150.
| Vehicle type | Scrap value (ON) |
|---|---|
| Compact car | $200–$500 |
| Midsize sedan | $250–$600 |
| Full-size sedan | $300–$700 |
| Compact SUV | $300–$650 |
| Minivan | $350–$750 |
| Full-size pickup | $400–$850 |
| Full-size SUV | $450–$1,000 |
Scrap car value by province
Steel prices vary across Canada. Ontario has the highest scrap prices due to its proximity to US steel markets. Saskatchewan typically pays the least due to higher transport costs.
| Province | Steel price (per kg) | Full-size pickup |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | $0.18–$0.22/kg | $400–$850 |
| British Columbia | $0.17–$0.21/kg | $380–$820 |
| Quebec | $0.17–$0.21/kg | $380–$820 |
| Alberta | $0.16–$0.20/kg | $360–$780 |
| Manitoba | $0.16–$0.20/kg | $360–$780 |
| Nova Scotia | $0.16–$0.20/kg | $360–$780 |
| Saskatchewan | $0.15–$0.19/kg | $340–$760 |
Values include OEM catalytic converter. View live prices by province →
How to get more money for your scrap car
Most people accept the first offer they get. These four steps consistently get better results.
Know your catalytic converter type before calling
If your car left the factory with an OEM catalytic converter, say so upfront. Use this: "The catalytic converter is original equipment — I'm pricing that in." Yards will pay more when they know you know.
Get at least two quotes
Call two yards in your area. A $50–$100 difference is common for the same car. Getting a second quote takes 5 minutes and often makes the first yard improve their offer.
Confirm towing is included before agreeing
Some yards quote a price then subtract $75–$150 for pickup. Always ask: "Is that price with free towing included?" before you say yes.
Use current steel prices as your reference
Steel is currently trading at $0.18–$0.22/kg in Ontario. If a yard is far below what your vehicle's weight implies, push back with the numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average scrap car value in Canada?
Most passenger cars scrap for $200–$600 CAD. Larger vehicles — full-size pickups and SUVs — typically fetch $400–$1,000. The range is wide because steel weight, catalytic converter type, and condition all affect the final number significantly.
What's the most valuable part of a scrap car?
The catalytic converter is often worth more per kilogram than any other part. An OEM catalytic converter from a truck or SUV can be worth $150–$200 on its own. After that, the steel weight of the body drives most of the value.
Does my car need to run to have scrap value?
No — a non-running car still has scrap value based on its weight and parts. Most licensed yards in Canada offer free towing regardless of whether the car runs. You'll typically get $50–$150 less for a car that doesn't start versus one that runs and drives.
What do scrap yards look for when pricing a car?
Yards primarily look at: (1) the steel weight — heavier vehicles pay more, (2) whether the catalytic converter is present and OEM, (3) whether the car runs, and (4) current steel prices in your region. Cosmetic damage barely matters — they're buying metal, not reselling the car.
How do I know if I'm getting a fair price?
Use our calculator to get a range based on current steel prices and your vehicle. Then get at least two quotes from local yards. A $50–$100 difference between yards in the same city is common. If a yard quotes significantly below the estimate range, ask them to break down what they're paying for.
Does the year of the car affect scrap value?
Only indirectly. Scrap yards care about the car's weight, not its year. However, older vehicles often have OEM catalytic converters with higher precious metal content, which can increase their value. A 2003 F-150 may scrap for more than a 2010 F-150 if the older one has a heavier-duty OEM cat.
Should I sell parts before scrapping?
It depends on your time. Parting out a car takes weeks and requires storage space. For most people, scrapping the whole car for cash same-day is the better trade-off. The exception: if your car has low-mileage engine or transmission that's in high demand, selling those parts first can add $200–$500 to your total.
How quickly do I get paid?
Most Canadian scrap yards pay cash or e-transfer at the time of pickup. Same-day or next-day service is common in major cities. Once you agree on a price, the yard books a pickup — typically within 24–48 hours.
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