If you have an old vehicle gathering dust in your driveway, chances are you have thought about Canberra, you will run into all kinds of “facts” people swear by.

Below’s the thing, a lot of them are not facts at all. They are myths that could actually stop you from getting the best deal for your vehicle.

Today we are pulling back the curtain on the five biggest misconceptions about scrap car prices and replacing them with the real story.

Myth 1: A Scrap Car Is Worth Only Its Weight in Metal

The Myth:

Many people believe scrap cars are priced purely by their weight in metal. If that were true, two vehicles of the same size would always be worth the same amount.

The Reality:

Weight does matter, but it’s far from the only factor. Scrap yards and car removal services also look at:

• Reusable components like engines, alternators, and transmissions

• Market demand for certain components and metals

• Current scrap metal prices which change regularly

A smaller vehicle with rare, in-demand parts might earn you more than a heavier one with nothing salvageable. So before assuming your vehicle is “just scrap metal,” get evaluated by a cash for cars Canberra expert who understands its full value.

Myth 2: You will Have to Pay to Get It Towed

The Myth:

Some think they will need to spend hundreds just to tow their old car to a scrapyard.

The Reality:

With reputable scrap car removal companies, towing is often free. In fact, many services will come to your location, load up your car, and hand you cash on the spot with no towing bill, no hidden fees.

In Canberra, professional buyers providing cash for cars pride themselves on stress-free collection. That means your vehicle can go from “rusty driveway decoration” to “cash in your pocket” in less than a day.

Myth 3: Older Vehicles Are Worth Nothing

The Myth:

People usually assume that if their vehicle is too old or not running, it has no value.

The Reality:

An older or non working car can still be valuable in numerous ways:

• Parts recycling: Many older models have components that are hard to find.

• Scrap metals: Aluminium. Copper, steel, and catalytic converters still have resale value.

• Project cars: Some buyers restore or use them for training purposes.

Even if your vehicle looks like it’s on its last legs, there’s a strong chance someone will pay for it, mainly a cash for cars Canberra buyer who knows how to extract every bit of value.

Myth 4: It’s Better to Sell Privately Than Scrap

The Myth:

Selling to a private buyer will always get you more money.

The Reality:

Yes, sometimes private sales fetch higher prices, but only if:

• Your vehicle is in running condition

• You are willing to invest time in advertising, negotiating, and paperwork

• You are prepared for tyre kickers and no shows

For vehicles with major mechanical problems or accident damage, private buyers usually walk away. Scrap car removal provides a guaranteed sale, fast turnaround, and no repair costs. And unlike private sales, you won’t spend weeks dealing with buyers who disappear after the first test drive.

Myth 5: Scrap Prices Are Always the Same

The Myth:

Once you know the “going rate” for scrap, it won’t change.

The Reality:

Scrap metal prices are like fuel prices, they go up and down based on:

• Global market demand

• Local supply

• Recycling facility capacity

That means the value of your scrap car today might be higher or lower tomorrow. The smart move? Get quotes from multiple cash for cars Canberra services before committing. Some buyers might be paying premium rates due to current demand for certain metals or parts.

Conclusion

Selling your old car doesn’t have to be a gamble. By understanding the truth behind these common myths, you can:

• Avoid lowball offers

• Choose the right time to sell

• Maximise the value of your vehicle

If you’re in Canberra, professional scrap car removal services make the process simple: free towing, instant payment, and a fair quote based on more than just your car’s weight.