It’s one of the most common questions we hear: “How much is my old car actually worth?” You’ve got a vehicle sitting in the driveway or garage, and you know it has some value—but how much? Is it worth a few hundred dollars? A few thousand? More than you think, or less?
The truth is, car valuation isn’t as straightforward as checking a price tag. Multiple factors come into play, and understanding them can help you set realistic expectations—and ensure you don’t get lowballed when it comes time to sell.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what determines your old car’s value in Perth, what you can realistically expect to receive, and how to get the best price without the usual selling headaches.
Want to skip straight to the answer? Get Your Free Quote or call 0452 665 334 for an instant valuation.
What Factors Affect Your Car’s Value?
When we assess a vehicle, we look at several key factors. Understanding these can help you gauge what your car might be worth:
Make and Model
Some brands hold their value better than others. Toyota, for instance, has a reputation for reliability that keeps demand (and prices) relatively high even for older models. A 15-year-old Hilux or Corolla will typically fetch more than a similar-aged vehicle from a less popular brand. Popular models with strong parts demand also tend to be worth more.
Age and Kilometres
As a general rule, newer cars with fewer kilometres are worth more. But it’s not always linear—a well-maintained 10-year-old car with 150,000 km might be worth more than a neglected 5-year-old car with 200,000 km. Age matters, but it’s not the only factor.
Condition
This is where things get interesting. Condition covers everything from mechanical health to body condition to interior state. A car that runs well, has minimal rust, and a decent interior will be worth significantly more than one with major mechanical issues, extensive rust, or a trashed interior.
Key condition factors include:
Does the engine run? Does it run well?
What’s the transmission condition?
Any rust or body damage?
Interior condition—seats, dashboard, electronics
Are all major components present and functional?
Registration Status
A registered vehicle is typically worth a bit more than an unregistered one—partly because of the paperwork convenience, and partly because registration suggests the car was roadworthy relatively recently. That said, we buy both registered and unregistered vehicles, so don’t let lapsed rego stop you from getting a quote.
Current Market Conditions
The used car market fluctuates. Scrap metal prices, parts demand, and overall market conditions all play a role. This is one reason why getting an up-to-date quote is important—values can change over time.
What Can You Realistically Expect?
Let’s talk real numbers. Here’s a rough guide to what different types of vehicles might fetch:
Running, registered, good condition: $3,000 – $9,999 depending on make, model, and age
Running but needs work: $1,000 – $4,000 depending on what’s needed
Non-running but complete: $500 – $2,500 depending on parts value
Scrap/heavily damaged: $150 – $800 based primarily on metal weight
These are general ranges—your specific vehicle could fall above or below depending on circumstances. The only way to know for sure is to get an actual quote.
Common Misconceptions About Car Value
Over the years, we’ve heard plenty of myths about what affects car value. Let’s clear some up:
“My car is too old to be worth anything.” Not true. Even very old cars have value in parts and scrap metal. We regularly pay hundreds or thousands for vehicles that people assumed were worthless.
“The car doesn’t run, so it’s just a scrap.” A non-running car often has significant parts value. Engines can be rebuilt, transmissions repurposed, and body panels reused. Running condition affects the value but doesn’t eliminate it.
“I should fix it up before selling.” Usually not worth it. The cost of repairs rarely translates to an equal increase in selling price. You’ll often spend more fixing problems than you’ll recoup in the sale.
“Online calculators give accurate values.” They give rough estimates at best. Online tools can’t assess actual condition, local market factors, or current parts demand. A real quote from an actual buyer is always more accurate.
How to Get the Best Price for Your Old Car
Want to maximise what you get? Here are some practical tips:
Be honest about the condition: Exaggerating your car’s condition only leads to disappointment when the buyer arrives and adjusts their offer. Give accurate information upfront for a more reliable quote.
Have your paperwork ready: Registration papers and proof of ownership make the process smoother and can positively affect your offer.
Know what you have: Make, model, year, engine size, and any notable features or damage. The more information you can provide, the more accurate your quote will be.
Don’t wait too long: Cars depreciate every day. The vehicle worth $2,000 today might only be worth $1,500 in six months as it continues to deteriorate.
Choose a reputable buyer: Some operators quote high to get your interest, then drop the price when they arrive. Look for transparent, guaranteed quotes from established businesses.
Ready to find out what your car is worth? Get Your Free Instant Quote—no obligation, no pressure.
Why Perth Sellers Choose WA Fast Car Removal
We buy old cars and junk cars across all of Perth, paying up to $9,999 for vehicles in any condition. Here’s what sets us apart:
Guaranteed quotes: The price we quote is the price you get. No last-minute reductions, no bait-and-switch tactics.
Instant cash payment: You get paid on the spot when we collect your vehicle. No waiting for bank transfers or cheques to clear.
Free towing: We pick up your vehicle at no cost, no matter where you are in Perth.
Same-day service: Most pickups happen the same day you call. Quick, efficient, and on your schedule.
All conditions accepted: Running, non-running, registered, unregistered, damaged, pristine—we buy them all.
Our car removal service covers everywhere from South Perth to East Perth, Joondalup to Mandurah, and everywhere in between. Check our cash for cars Perth page for full details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a quote for my car?
Simply call us on 0452 665 334 or fill out our online form. Provide some basic details about your vehicle, and we’ll give you a firm cash offer within minutes.
Is the quote guaranteed?
Yes. As long as the vehicle matches your description, the quote we give is exactly what you’ll receive. No surprises, no reductions when we arrive.
What if I don’t know the exact details about my car?
That’s fine. Give us what information you have, and we’ll ask questions to fill in the gaps. We can often identify details from your registration or the vehicle itself.
Do you buy cars that don’t run?
Absolutely. We buy vehicles in any condition—running, non-running, damaged, complete, or incomplete. Every car has some value.
How quickly can I get my money?
Same day in most cases. Call us in the morning, and you could have cash in hand by the afternoon. We pay on the spot when we collect your vehicle.
Is there any cost to me?
None at all. Quotes are free, towing is free, and there are no hidden fees. You receive the full quoted amount with nothing deducted.
Find Out What Your Car is Worth Today
Stop wondering and start knowing. Whether your car is a well-maintained family sedan or a rusty project that never got finished, it has value—and we can tell you exactly how much.
Getting a quote takes just a few minutes, costs nothing, and commits you to nothing. But it does give you the information you need to make an informed decision about what to do with that old vehicle.
WA Fast Car Removal has been helping Perth residents turn unwanted cars into cash for years. We offer fair prices, honest service, and a process that couldn’t be simpler.
Get Your Free Car Valuation
Get Your Free Quote | Call: 0452 665 334
WA Fast Car Removal
Perth’s Trusted Car Removal Service | Up to $9,999 Cash | Same-Day Pickup | Free Towing
