How to Sell a Junk Car in Maryland

A junk car is a vehicle that has been damaged beyond 75% of market value. It could be the result of an accident, flood, fire or vandalism. If you live in the state of Maryland, there are a few steps you need to take in order to get rid of the vehicle.

Instructions

1. Determine if you have the title for the car. The title will help you sell your vehicle faster. This is assuming that the car in question is owned by you. However, once a vehicle has been totaled, your vehicle is no longer considered operable, and you must apply for a "salvage certificate."

2. Go to your local Maryland DMV. Bring your title, registration and accident report (if applicable).

3. Pick up an "Application for Salvage Certificate/Owner Retention" at your local Maryland DMV or through their official website (see resources). Complete the form and see a DMV clerk. You will have to pay a $20 fee to get this processed. The certificate will be mailed to you in a few weeks.

4. Sell your junk car. Once you have the salvage certificate, you can get rid of your vehicle. Go to your local salvage/junk car dealer with the vehicle and DMV documentation. Do not expect a lot of money. A salvage/junk vehicle may be used for parts if the damage is too severe.

Tips & Warnings

• If your car is insured, you can allow the claims adjusters to take possession of your vehicle and sell off your car to a salvage company for you. Instead of selling your junk car to a salvage dealer, get rid of it yourself by selling off on eBay or through a local newspaper ad. You could also donate it to a junk car removal organization that will sell it and give the proceeds to charity.

• If your car was totaled before you paid off your auto loan, you will not have possession of the title. In this case, you cannot sell the vehicle. The insurance company will handle it in this situation. Any parking tickets you currently have are still valid even if your car is totaled. You are not released from liability even if you sell the car with a salvage certificate.

Resources

• Click here to print out a copy of the Maryland Salvage Certificate application.
• Maryland based auto parts recycler and seller.
• Link to a directory of Maryland salvage and junkyards.
• Official Maryland DMV website