How to Sell a Damaged Car in Australia (2025 Guide)

Need to sell a damaged car, wrecked car, or non-running vehicle in Australia? Learn how to get cash, sell legally, and avoid common seller mistakes.

Why Selling a Damaged Car Isn’t as Hard as You Think.

If you’ve got a car that’s been in an accident, won’t start, or has seen better days, you’re not alone—many Aussies look for how to sell a damaged car every month.

Thousands of Aussies search every month for how to sell a damaged car, and many don’t realise they can still get good money for it—legally, safely, and quickly.

Whether your vehicle is hail damaged, written off, wrecked, or just no longer running, there are options beyond scrapping it or trading it in for less than it’s worth. In fact, there’s a growing market in Australia for repairable write-offs, salvage vehicles, and broken cars bought for parts. Knowing where to look and how to sell properly can help you avoid scams, meet legal requirements, and get more cash than you’d expect.

This guide explains everything you need to know to sell a damaged car in Australia, including how to price it, where to list it, what paperwork is required, and how to stay safe when dealing with buyers. Whether you’re trying to offload a 15-year-old non-runner or a recently crashed SUV, we’ll walk you through each step.

If your vehicle still runs or only needs minor repairs, you may also want to explore listing it on our used cars for sale page for broader exposure. But even if your car is no longer roadworthy, this guide will show you how to handle the process—from legal paperwork to negotiating with wreckers or private buyers.

Let’s learn about how to sell a damaged car the smart way in 2025.

Assess the Damage and Your Car Selling Options

Before you list your vehicle or contact buyers, the first step to sell a damaged car is to clearly understand its condition and the types of buyers it may appeal to.

Start by evaluating the condition so you can decide how best to sell a damaged car—whether it’s privately, for parts, or to a wrecker :

• Is the car still drivable?
• Are the damages cosmetic (scratches, dents) or structural?
• Has the vehicle been declared a repairable write-off or statutory write-off?

If it’s been in a major accident, received hail damage, or won’t start, you’ll want to decide whether it’s worth repairing or better sold as-is. Some owners assume that a non-running car is worthless—but that’s not the case. You can often sell a damaged car for parts, scrap value, or even to specialist buyers looking for restoration projects.

The next step is determining your best sale path:

• Private sale (for minor damage or project vehicles)
• Wreckers and recyclers (for cars that don’t run or have severe damage)
• Auction or salvage yard listings
• Cash-for-cars services that buy damaged vehicles quickly

If you’re unsure whether your car qualifies for private sale or needs to go through a dismantler, check your state’s legal guidelines and roadworthy requirements. Our complete guide on how to sell a car in Australia can help clarify what’s legally required for each sale type.

Depending on your state and your car’s status, some options will be easier or more profitable than others. Taking the time to properly assess the situation helps avoid wasted time and lowball offers—and puts you in a better position to get a fair price.

Gather the Right Documents and Prepare for Car Sale

Once you’ve decided how to sell a damaged car, the next essential step is gathering the documents and preparing the vehicle for listing. Even if the car isn’t running or has structural damage, you still need proper paperwork to sell a damaged car legally and avoid future liability.

What You’ll Need:

1. Proof of ownership
   This is usually the registration certificate in your name. If the car is unregistered, you may need additional proof such as a purchase receipt, a transfer notice, or a statutory declaration.
2. Driver’s license or ID
   This confirms you’re the legal owner and helps with ID checks if you’re selling the vehicle directly to another individual or business.
3. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
   The VIN will help buyers check your car’s history, and is required for listing with many wreckers, cash-for-cars services, and auction platforms.
4. Roadworthy Certificate (if applicable)
   In many cases, a severely damaged or non-running car won’t qualify for a roadworthy certificate. That’s okay—just make sure the buyer understands that and agrees to purchase it “as-is.”
5. Written agreement or bill of sale
   Always record the buyer’s details, the condition of the vehicle, and the sale price. This document protects both parties and is especially important when you sell a damaged car privately or to a dismantler.
6. Notice of disposal
   Once sold, lodge this with your state’s transport authority so you’re no longer legally tied to the vehicle.

You don’t need to clean the car inside and out like you would when selling a newer vehicle, but do remove personal belongings and ensure all logbooks or service history (if available) are ready. Transparency goes a long way—even in salvage sales.

If you’re unsure what’s required in your state, check out our full guide on selling a used car in Australia, which breaks down the legal obligations by region.

When you’re ready with the documents, you’re one step closer to knowing how to sell a damaged car the right way—legally, safely, and without confusion.

Choose the Right Platform to Sell a Damaged Car

Choosing the right place to list your vehicle can make or break the sale—especially when you want to sell a damaged car quickly and for a fair price. Not every platform is designed to handle broken or non-running vehicles, and using the wrong one can lead to wasted time or lowball offers.

Here are your main options:

1. Private Classified Listings

Websites like Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and AusCarSales allow you to list your car with full control over price and communication. These are suitable if your vehicle has light cosmetic damage or is still drivable.

Be clear in your description that the car is damaged or being sold as-is, and include photos that show the damage honestly. Buyers looking for project cars or parts vehicles often browse these platforms.

You can explore which platforms get the most traffic and are trusted by Aussie car sellers in our article on where to buy and sell used cars in Australia.

2. Cash-for-Cars Services

These companies specialise in purchasing damaged, written-off, or non-running vehicles. The main benefit is speed—many can pick up your vehicle within 24–48 hours and pay cash on the spot.

Make sure the buyer is licensed and check reviews before accepting an offer. While you might not get as much as in a private sale, it’s a solid option when time matters more than top dollar.

3. Auto Wreckers & Dismantlers

Wreckers and recyclers buy damaged vehicles for parts or scrap metal. You’ll usually need to supply the VIN and details about what works (engine, transmission, etc.).

This is a common choice if you’re trying to sell a damaged car that doesn’t run or has extensive body damage. Some wreckers offer online quotes based on make, model, and condition.

4. Online Car Auctions

Auction platforms like Pickles or Manheim deal with salvage vehicles and repairable write-offs. You submit your vehicle’s details, and buyers bid based on what they see.

These platforms may take a cut of the sale, but they often attract mechanics, repairers, and dealers specifically looking for damaged cars to fix or part out.

Each method comes with trade-offs. Private sales offer more control and better pricing but take longer. Wreckers and cash-for-car buyers are fast and convenient but may offer less.

The key to success is knowing your car’s condition, being upfront in your listing, and picking the platform that best matches your vehicle’s situation. If you’re serious about learning how to sell a damaged car efficiently, platform selection is where it all begins.

Set a Fair Asking Price for Your Car Based on Condition

One of the most important parts of learning how to sell a damaged car is knowing how to price it fairly. A price that’s too high will drive buyers away, and one that’s too low means you’re losing out unnecessarily—even if the vehicle isn’t in working condition.

Here’s how to approach it:

1. Understand the True Value

Use RedBook or similar tools to find the market value of your car in good condition. Then deduct estimated repair costs, damage impact, and scrap value.

For example, You may think your car is worth $8,000 but needs $3,000 in repairs—knowing how to price it correctly helps you sell a damaged car faster and more confidently , you’re realistically looking at a $4,000–$5,000 price tag in a private sale. If it’s a complete write-off or non-runner, it may be worth $500–$2,000 depending on demand for parts.

2. Price Based on Intent

Ask yourself: are you trying to sell fast, or maximise return?

• For fast cash, drop the price slightly below what wreckers are offering.
• For more value, list it at market-adjusted price and allow room for negotiation.

Don’t just guess. Review listings for similar damaged vehicles in your area. What are other sellers asking for a similar make, model, and damage type?

You can also use instant valuation tools found in our ultimate car selling guide to get a realistic range.

3. Be Transparent in the Listing

State that the car is being sold “as-is”, and clearly describe the known damage. If it has been written off or has no roadworthy certificate, that should be mentioned in the ad.

Photos showing the damaged areas can actually help—buyers looking for parts or fixer-uppers want to see the flaws, not just a shiny bonnet.

4. Don’t Overprice Based on Sentiment

It’s easy to overvalue a car you’ve owned for years. But buyers won’t share that emotional connection. Base your asking price on facts—condition, repairability, and part value.

Setting the right price is a key part of how to sell a damaged car effectively. Be realistic, back it up with market data, and be prepared for negotiation—especially with wreckers and buyers who specialize in salvage.

Write a Listing That Attracts the Right Buyers

Once you’ve assessed the value and chosen your sales channel, the next step to sell a damaged car is creating a listing that appeals to the right audience—whether they’re looking for a parts vehicle, a project car, or scrap metal value.

1. Be Clear and Honest About the Damage

Buyers looking for damaged or non-running vehicles expect transparency. Use phrases like:

• “Engine turns over but doesn’t start”
• “Rear-end damage, airbags deployed”
• “Hail damage to bonnet and roof”

Avoid downplaying issues, as this leads to wasted time and lost trust. If the vehicle has been written off or is under finance, be upfront. You can refer to this government resource ACCC for guidance on legal disclosure obligations when there’s finance involved.

2. Include Key Information Buyers Care About

Your listing should include:

• Year, make, and model
• Fuel type and transmission
• Kilometres on the odometer (if known)
• Whether the car starts or runs
• Registration and RWC status
• VIN (if available)
• Asking price and if it’s negotiable
• Photos showing damage from multiple angles

Adding keywords like “as-is,” “not running,” “written-off,” or “repairable write-off” helps you attract the right searchers and avoid low-quality leads.

3. Take Photos That Show Both Strengths and Flaws

High-resolution photos in daylight help buyers understand what they’re getting. Show:

• Exterior damage
• Engine bay
• Wheels/tyres
• Interior (if intact)
• Odometer reading
• Compliance plate

Don’t just take a photo of the good side—show everything. Detailed visuals help you attract serious buyers when you sell a damaged car online. This builds credibility and filters serious buyers who understand how to sell a damaged car or buy one for salvage.

4. Tailor the Listing to Your Platform

If you’re selling privately, the tone can be conversational but clear. If using a professional site or auction, be more structured and detail-driven.

For full details on how to write strong private sale listings, refer to our private selling guide, which includes example ad templates.

Crafting the right listing is one of the most powerful steps when you want to sell a damaged car fast, without wasting time on tyre-kickers or unqualified buyers.

Negotiate Smartly and Close the Deal

Once your listing is live and enquiries start coming in, it’s time to prepare for negotiation. This part of the process can feel uncomfortable for some, especially when trying to sell a damaged car, but with the right approach, you can handle it confidently and close the deal on your terms.

1. Know Your Bottom Line

Before you respond to any offers, determine the lowest price you’re willing to accept based on your earlier valuation. Consider:

• The cost of towing or removal (who’s paying for it?)
• How quickly you want to sell
• Any competition in your local market

Remember, if the buyer is a wrecker or cash-for-cars service, they’ll likely aim to negotiate hard. Be realistic, but don’t give the vehicle away without a reason.

2. Be Transparent but Firm

Reiterate the key details in your communication:

• The car’s condition
• What’s working and what isn’t
• Whether the car is registered or comes with paperwork

Don’t be afraid to say no if a buyer is lowballing or making unreasonable demands. Many sellers are surprised to learn how many options exist when trying to sell a damaged car, especially in areas where parts vehicles are in demand.

If you’re listing on multiple platforms, let potential buyers know that other parties are also interested—but don’t fabricate urgency. Real interest builds faster with honesty.

3. Choose the Right Buyer

Always deal with verified buyers. If selling privately, ask for a copy of their driver’s licence before any test drive (if applicable). For non-runners, request a written confirmation of pickup time and payment method.

If your priority is speed, check out our guide on how to sell your car fast in Australia, which includes advice on balancing urgency with value.

4. Finalise the Sale Properly

Make sure to:

• Issue a receipt with both party details, VIN, and condition
• Lodge a Notice of Disposal with your state’s road authority
• Cancel registration or insurance if the car is not roadworthy

If you’re accepting a cash payment, count it in person and verify the notes. For transfers, wait until funds clear before handing over the keys or arranging pickup.

Negotiating the right deal is the final step in the active selling phase. But closing it safely and legally is what truly defines a successful outcome when you sell a damaged car.

Understand Legal Requirements and Seller Responsibilities

One of the most overlooked steps when trying to sell a damaged car is ensuring the process is fully legal. Selling a car with structural damage, no rego, or no roadworthy certificate doesn’t exempt you from meeting basic legal obligations as a seller in Australia.

1. Disclosure Requirements

You are legally required to disclose the condition of the vehicle to the buyer. If your car has been:

• Written off (repairable or statutory)
• In a major accident
• Deemed unroadworthy
• Under finance or encumbered

… you must inform the buyer before finalising the sale. Failing to disclose this can result in penalties, disputes, or even legal action depending on your state.

Clearly state “sold as-is” in your listing and any bill of sale to protect yourself from claims after the sale.

2. State-Based Paperwork

Each state and territory has slightly different rules around:

• Vehicle transfer forms
• Roadworthy certificate requirements
• Rego cancellation or transfer
• Statutory declarations (for unregistered or unknown ownership history)

Check your state’s road authority (such as VicRoads, Service NSW, or TMR QLD) for forms and requirements. Even if you’re dealing with a salvage buyer or wrecker, proper paperwork ensures you’re no longer legally tied to the vehicle.

3. Lodging a Notice of Disposal

Once you’ve completed the sale, lodge a Notice of Disposal online or in person with your state authority. This removes the vehicle from your name and prevents any future tolls, fines, or penalties from being directed to you.

Even when you sell a damaged car, skipping this step could cause serious issues down the line—especially if the new buyer doesn’t transfer the registration.

4. Protect Yourself from Scams

Scammers often target private sellers of damaged or non-running cars because they assume sellers are desperate. To avoid scams:

• Don’t accept overpayments or unusual payment methods
• Never hand over the car before full payment clears
• Avoid buyers who refuse to provide identification or request pickup without payment

You can find more on how to spot red flags and protect yourself in our guide to selling your car online safely.

When you sell a damaged car, the paperwork, legal steps, and disclosures matter just as much as the price. Taking a few extra minutes to do things by the book protects you—and helps build trust with serious buyers.

Expert Tips to Sell a Damaged Car for Maximum Cash

Selling a vehicle that’s been written off, doesn’t start, or has visible damage doesn’t mean you have to settle for the lowest offer. In fact, when you sell a damaged car the right way, you can often earn significantly more by applying just a few expert tips.

Here’s how to maximise your return, even when your car isn’t roadworthy.

1. Get Quotes from Multiple Buyers Before Accepting an Offer

Never settle for the first quote. Whether you’re selling to a wrecker, salvage yard, or cash-for-cars service, getting at least 3 to 5 quotes gives you real leverage. Some buyers focus on scrap metal value, while others assess resale parts or export value.

You may find price differences of $500 to $1500 on the same vehicle—especially if it’s a popular model like a Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, or Ford Ranger.

2. Consider Selling High-Value Parts Separately

In some cases, it makes sense to part out the car. Engines, transmissions, alloy wheels, infotainment units, and airbags can fetch a premium if sold separately. This approach is time-consuming but could bring in 30% to 60% more than selling the entire vehicle as-is.

If you go this route, always keep the VIN and logbook, and make sure to de-register the vehicle when dismantled. This method is often used by sellers who want maximum cash instead of a quick transaction.

3. Sell Quickly After Damage Occurs

Delaying your decision can cost you money. The value of a damaged car depreciates rapidly once it sits:

• Fluids leak or dry out
• Tires crack
• Electrical issues worsen
• Rust sets in

If you’re thinking about how to sell a damaged car, start the process immediately. Listings with “recent damage” get more attention and higher offers than long-abandoned vehicles.

For speed without losing value, check out our guide to selling your car fast online.

4. Highlight What Still Works

Buyers of salvage cars aren’t just looking at what’s wrong—they’re calculating what’s reusable. Mention working components like:

• Engine starts
• New tires
• Working electronics
• Upgraded stereo or accessories
• Air conditioning

Even in a non-running car, highlighting what’s intact can increase your final offer by hundreds of dollars. The more you show, the more value they can see.

5. Include High-Quality Photos—Especially of the Damage

Listings with clear images of both damage and undamaged parts consistently get better engagement. Use your phone or camera to take photos from every angle, including:

• Exterior (all sides)
• Interior (seats, dashboard, odometer)
• Under the bonnet
• Damaged areas (close-up and wide)
• VIN and compliance plates

The more transparent your listing, the less negotiation you’ll face later.

6. Avoid “Cash Buyer” Scams and Lowballers

When trying to sell a damaged car, be cautious of buyers who:

• Offer to overpay and “refund the difference”
• Want to pick up without ID or paperwork
• Avoid phone calls and insist on messaging only

Stick to verified buyers and never hand over keys until full payment has cleared your bank account. If you feel rushed or pressured, walk away.

These expert tips won’t just help you sell a damaged car—they’ll help you sell it smarter, faster, and for more money. Taking a little extra time to present your car honestly and negotiate with confidence can make all the difference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a Damaged Car.

Even if your car is broken or written off, it still has value—but only if you avoid the common mistakes that cost sellers both time and money. Whether you’re listing it yourself or using a cash-for-cars service, here are the top pitfalls to avoid when you sell a damaged car.

1. Overpricing Without Understanding Market Value

One of the most common mistakes is setting a price that’s based on emotion rather than data. You may think your car is worth $5,000 because of what you paid or the upgrades you added—but if it’s a non-runner or repairable write-off, buyers won’t see it the same way.

Do market research, get multiple quotes, and compare similar listings online. Use trusted platforms to determine realistic resale or salvage value before you publish your ad.

2. Not Mentioning the Damage Honestly

Trying to downplay the extent of the damage in your listing is a guaranteed way to scare off serious buyers. When you sell a damaged car, full disclosure isn’t just ethical—it saves time and protects you from post-sale disputes.

List all visible damage, known mechanical issues, and whether the vehicle is written off, not registered, or missing parts. Honesty builds trust, even in salvage deals.

3. Forgetting to Cancel Insurance or Lodge Disposal

After the sale, many sellers forget to:

• Cancel registration (if selling as-is or for parts)
• Cancel their insurance policy
• Lodge a notice of disposal with the state transport authority

These oversights can result in unexpected bills or legal issues. Even when you’re trying to sell a damaged car quickly, paperwork must be finalised to protect yourself.

4. Accepting Unsafe or Suspicious Payment Methods

Scammers love targeting distressed sellers, especially those offloading damaged cars. Watch out for:

• Overpayments (e.g. “I’ll send $3,000 but you refund $500”)
• Gift cards or crypto payments
• Third-party pickups with no ID

Stick with direct bank transfer or cash in person. Don’t release the vehicle until the money is 100% confirmed in your account.

5. Using the Wrong Platform for the Type of Damage

If your car is completely undriveable, don’t waste time listing it on buyer-focused platforms that expect roadworthy vehicles. Instead, use specialist sites, auto recyclers, or our recommended car-selling platforms tailored for broken and salvage cars.

Choosing the wrong channel often leads to no offers, lowball messages, or expired listings that don’t convert.

6. Failing to Include Enough Photos

Some sellers post just one blurry photo of a car with “damaged” in the title. That’s a fast way to lose buyer confidence. Even when you’re trying to sell a damaged car, buyers want to know exactly what they’re getting into.

Upload at least 8–10 photos including the good, bad, and the paperwork. More images = more trust = more offers.

Avoiding these mistakes could be the difference between getting $500 and $2,000—or even between selling the car or getting stuck with it. When you understand what to do and what not to do, you’ll be in the best position to sell a damaged car quickly and confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Sell a Damaged Car

Conclusion: Sell Your Damaged Car With Confidence in 2025

Selling a broken, wrecked, or non-running vehicle may seem overwhelming at first—but with the right strategy, it’s not only possible, it can be profitable. Whether you’re trying to sell a damaged car privately, offload it to a wrecker, or attract salvage buyers, the steps outlined in this guide will help you stay legal, safe, and in control of the process.

We’ve covered everything from assessing damage, preparing documentation, and writing a compelling listing, to choosing the right sales platform and negotiating smartly. You now know how to:

• Get your paperwork in order
• Set a fair and competitive price
• Avoid common scams
• Complete a legal, transparent sale

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how to sell a damaged car, but understanding your options is the first step to making the right decision. Whether your vehicle is lightly hail damaged, a complete write-off, or a non-runner with potential part value, there’s a buyer out there—and a legal path to complete the sale properly.

If you’re ready to take the next step, visit our Sell My Car page to list your vehicle, or explore options with trusted car dealers across Australia.

With the right preparation, even a damaged car can bring real value. Don’t let it sit in your driveway. Sell smart, sell safely, and move on with confidence.

Why Now Is the Best Time to Sell a Damaged Car

If your car is sitting unused, damaged, or written off, every day you wait lowers its value. Fluids dry out, rust sets in, and interest from buyers fades. But even in poor condition, your vehicle still has value — you just need to connect with the right type of buyer.

Today, there’s more demand than ever for:

• Non-running cars for parts
• Repairable write-offs
• Salvage vehicles with usable components

Instead of letting it take up space or fall apart further, take control of the situation. You don’t have to scrap it for the lowest offer or get caught in endless messages on classified sites.

If you want a straightforward way to sell a damaged car without hassle, AusCarSales is built to help. Our platform connects you with serious buyers, including private buyers, wreckers, and salvage professionals.

You can list your damaged vehicle in minutes, for free. No pressure, no complicated steps.

Start here: Sell your damaged car on AusCarSales

Don’t let your damaged car lose more value while sitting idle. Turn it into cash today — legally, safely, and with confidence.

How to Sell a Damaged Car for Parts in Australia.

If your vehicle is beyond repair or has been classified as a statutory write-off, one of the most practical ways to sell a damaged car is by parting it out. Many vehicles have usable components—engine, gearbox, wheels, interior trims, even infotainment systems—that can be sold separately or as a package to a buyer looking for parts.

1. Know When Parting Out Makes Sense

Selling parts is ideal when:

• The cost of repair exceeds the car’s total value
• You have mechanical knowledge or know someone who does
• The car is a popular model with demand for spare parts

Models like the Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, Ford Ranger, and Hilux are commonly dismantled and easy to sell in pieces.

2. How to Sell a Damaged Car for Parts Legally

If you plan to dismantle the vehicle yourself:

• Cancel the rego with your state transport office
• Remove and sell parts with clear descriptions and photos
• Be honest about their condition and usage
• Keep the VIN and compliance plate for records

If this feels overwhelming, another option is to sell a damaged car to a licensed wrecker. They’ll handle dismantling, paperwork, and may pay you more based on parts value rather than scrap weight.

3. Use the Right Channels for Parts Buyers

To reach the right audience:

• List on Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree under “car parts”
• Join local car forums or Facebook groups for your car’s make/model
• Offer bulk deals to wreckers or mechanics

Even if your vehicle doesn’t start, you can still sell a damaged car for parts and often earn more than scrap value—especially if you’re willing to put in a little effort.