Got a banged-up, accident-damaged, or straight-up smashed car sitting in your driveway? This is a problem shared by many South Africans. For uninsured drivers, or even those still paying off instalments on a damaged vehicle, deciding whether to fix it or sell it can be a tough call. Repairs can cost a small fortune, insurance might not have your back, and the car’s value may never bounce back.
We uncover the top 10 reasons South Africans are selling damaged cars, answer some of your related questions and point you toward trustworthy options for selling your damaged car.
1. Sky-high repair costs
Panel beaters and mechanics don’t come cheap. Sometimes, fixing a damaged car can cost more than the car’s actual market value. Why sink money into a losing battle when you can sell a damaged car and get something back?
2. You’re still paying off the car
It can be a nightmare if you’re paying off a car that’s been smashed. A reputable buyer can negotiate with your bank on your behalf.
If the sale price exceeds the settlement amount, you’ll get some extra cash. If it is below the remaining balance, you will need to plan to pay the outstanding balance to the bank/lender.
3. Insurance won’t cover it
Many drivers in SA are uninsured, which means one bad accident could leave you with a write-off and no payout. Selling damaged cars becomes the quickest way to turn that bad luck into cash.
4. You need quick cash
Life happens. Bills pile up, and emergencies strike. Selling a damaged car is a fast way to unlock money without the long wait with private buyers.
5. It’s taking up too much room
That smashed car in your yard isn’t just an eyesore; it’s dead weight. Selling it clears space and gives you cash to put towards something worthwhile.
6. Safety concerns
If your car’s damage makes driving unsafe, keeping it is a risk. Selling damaged vehicles is often safer and more practical than patchwork repairs (and better for your peace of mind).
7. Upgrading to something better
Why spend money on a wreck when you can sell your non-running or smashed car and use the cash to buy a newer, more reliable ride?
8. Avoiding ongoing costs
Even a stationary car can cost money. License renewals, insurance, and storage fees add up. Selling means you stop the financial bleed.
9. The car’s a write-off
If your insurer has labelled your ride a write-off or non-runner, the market for it is slim. Salvage buyers specialise in smashed cars and will still pay you for them (just be sure to find a trustworthy one).
10. You no longer want the car
Sometimes it’s just time to cut your losses, sell the car, and let go of the stress that comes with it.
Your FAQs answered
- Can I sell my smashed car if it’s still under finance?
Yes. A reputable salvage buyer can help negotiate with the bank and arrange for you to be paid any excess money. If your settlement amount with the bank is more than the selling price you get for the car, you’ll need to arrange to pay the balance to the bank yourself. - Do I have to arrange towing?
No. A trustworthy salvage specialist is all about making it easy to sell your damaged car and will tow your damaged car for free (from any location in South Africa). - What kinds of damaged cars do buyers take?
From accident-damaged to engine-failure and flood-damaged vehicles, reputable buyers purchase all non-running or smashed cars.
5 Ways to be sure you’re selling to a reputable salvage company
When you decide to sell your damaged car, your next step is to sell it to the right company to make the process easy and safe and pay you a fair price.
Here are 5 helpful signs that your proposed autosalvage specialist has your back:
- They have over 300 reviews and a solid reputation on an independent reviewing platform like Hellopeter, giving you reassurance that other people have trusted them
- It’s easy to upload your damaged car’s details within 90 seconds on their user-friendly website
- They buy ANY damaged and non-running cars nationwide
- They provide free towing and handle all the paperwork involved in deregistering the car
- Once inspection is complete, they provide you with instant cash.
