What affects a scrap-car estimate?

Size is the starting point

Motli’s calculator uses weight categories, from small cars to large SUVs and light vans. Check the manufacturer’s stated kerb weight rather than guessing from how big the car looks.

The range comes from historical prices for vehicles in that category. It is not a live metal price, an exact registration-based valuation or an offer to buy your car. The source period and review date appear with the result.

You can read the underlying published price index used by the calculator. The guide currently refers to 12 months to September 2026; a trader confirms their own price after assessing the vehicle.

Some answers need an individual assessment

Electric and hybrid vehicles, uncertain or heavy weight categories, and missing major parts can fall outside a useful size-only estimate. In those cases the calculator shows an explanation instead of making up a number. An expired price guide also stops numeric estimates.

You can still continue the same enquiry. Describe what is fitted and what is missing, and add clear photos so an interested buyer has something useful to assess.

Tell the buyer how it runs

Say whether it starts, drives or needs transport. Include known faults and damage. “It runs” should not stand in for a description of the condition.

Running condition does not add an automatic premium to Motli’s estimate. Running and non-running cars follow the same next step: complete the enquiry, then let an interested trader assess it.

Check the offer before agreeing

Ask what the trader’s price depends on, whether an inspection could change it and who pays for collection. Agree those points directly with the buyer. Their confirmed price may be above or below the indicative range, and an offer or purchase is not guaranteed.

This pilot is for repair or resale, not scrap disposal. Do not submit Category A/B vehicles, vehicles declared as waste or vehicles with a Certificate of Destruction.

For the steps after the estimate, see how a Motli enquiry works.