Comparing Junk Car Buyers: What to Know
Getting rid of the junk car in your yard has probably been a dream of yours for some time. And the truth is, you can get cash for that car—but only if you hire a reputable junk car buyer. In this blog, we’re going to cover the process of comparing junk car buyers. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know everything you need to know and have the confidence to sell that junk car.
1. Reviews and Reputation
When looking to hire any service, your first step is to find out what people are saying about them. All companies put their best reviews on their website, so be sure to check out Google, Yelp, and the BBB for feedback.
Also, look for red flags like repeated complaints or attempts to pay the owner less than originally quoted. Some junk car buyers don’t have great reputations—and there’s a good reason for that.
2. Towing Services
Be sure to confirm that towing is included. Some junk car buyers don’t mention this upfront and may try to deduct it from the amount they quoted you over the phone. Other junk car buyers won’t charge for towing and will give you a fair price for your vehicle. So keep looking until you find one that does. If they don’t state it clearly on their website, ask.
3. Payment Terms Given on the Phone
Ask if they pay in cash or check. Make sure you get cash. You want to go with a junk car buyer who pays when they pick up the vehicle. Avoid companies that say they’ll pay you later or after the car sells.
Also, make sure the company has a reputation for honoring the amount they quoted on the phone. Some bad actors use bait-and-switch tactics—telling you one price over the phone, then trying to talk you down once they arrive and start loading the car.
They might say things like, “It has more rust than you said” or “There’s more damage than expected.” Don’t fall for it—even if they already have the car loaded onto the tow truck. They can take it down. There have been cases where junk car owners had to call the police to have the car unloaded from the tow truck.
4. Paperwork & Legal Compliance
Legitimate buyers will help you with the title transfer and will be licensed or certified in your state. They will also provide a bill of sale or confirmation of vehicle release. If they don’t offer these, you may not want to work with that company.
5. Environmental Practices
Reputable junk car buyers dispose of everything in a way that’s safe for the environment, including fluids and hazardous materials. If you care about the environment, don’t be afraid to ask about their disposal practices.
6. Location & Service Area
Local junk car buyers are more likely to give you a better offer and service than national chains. To get the most money for your junk car, your best bet is to go with a local service and avoid national buyers.
7. Hidden Fees
Be sure to ask if there are any additional fees for things like towing, processing, or paperwork. Make sure everything is in writing via email before they come to pick up your junk car—and read it thoroughly. Don’t forget the fine print!
Do You Have a Junk Car in Chicago, Chicagoland, or the Northwest Indiana Area?
If you have a junk car taking up space in Chicago, Cicero, Hammond, or Gary, contact us at Cash For Cars. We are certified and have been purchasing junk cars in Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana for years. We don’t charge for towing. We give you cash on the spot and don’t try to talk you down from the amount we quoted on the phone. We offer honest cash for cars that people can actually use.
