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How To Scrap A Car In Ontario? (step-by-step Guide)

By Steve Smith 11 Dec, 2025 252
How to Scrap a Car in Ontario? (Step-by-Step Guide)

Scrapping a car in Ontario is a simple process, but doing it correctly ensures you get the best price, avoid legal issues, and recycle your vehicle responsibly. Whether your car is damaged, old, or no longer worth repairing, this guide will walk you through every step.

How to Scrap a Car in Ontario?

1. Determine if Your Car Is Ready to Be Scrapped

Before scrapping, confirm that your vehicle is:

  • Not roadworthy or too costly to repair

  • Totaled, damaged, or beyond use

  • An old car with low resale value

  • Taking space with no practical purpose
     

If the cost of repairs exceeds the vehicle’s worth, scrapping is the best option.

2. Gather the Required Documents

In Ontario, you must have:

  • Vehicle Ownership (Green Permit)

  • Photo ID

  • Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) (optional but helpful)
     

If you lost your ownership, you can request a replacement from ServiceOntario before scrapping.

3. Remove Personal Belongings

Before pickup or drop-off:

  • Check the trunk, glove box, and storage compartments

  • Remove seat covers and mats

  • Delete garage door opener codes

  • Disconnect your licence plates

Scrap yards are not responsible for lost items once the car is gone.

4. Cancel Your Insurance & Plates

After removing your plates:

  • Return them to ServiceOntario or keep them for another vehicle

  • Cancel your auto insurance policy to stop paying premiums
     

This prevents future charges and ensures the vehicle is off the road legally.

5. Get Quotes from Scrap Car Removal Services

Prices vary based on:

  • Vehicle weight

  • Make, model, and year

  • Condition (running or not)

  • Current metal prices

  • Location within Ontario
     

Contact multiple scrapyards or scrap car removal companies for the best offer. Many in Ontario provide:

  • Free towing

  • Same-day pickup

  • Instant cash or e-transfer

6. Choose a Licensed Scrap Yard

To avoid scams and get fair pricing, choose companies that are:

  • Licensed & insured

  • Environmentally responsible

  • Transparent with quotes
     

A professional scrap yard ensures safe dismantling and proper recycling of fluids, metals, and parts.

7. Prepare the Car for Pickup

Before towing:

  • Remove your licence plates

  • Drain personal belongings

  • Keep the ownership ready
     

You don’t need to remove wheels, tires, or battery scrapyards handle everything.

8. Sign the Bill of Sale or Transfer Document

Most scrap car removal companies provide a simple bill of sale stating:

  • Vehicle details

  • The amount you’re paid

  • Buyer information

This protects you legally and confirms the vehicle has been transferred and recycled.

9. Receive Payment

You will typically get paid:

  • Cash on the spot

  • E-transfer before or after pickup

Average scrap car prices range based on vehicle type and market metal rates.

10. The Scrap Yard Recycles the Vehicle

Once collected, the scrapyard will:

  • Drain fluids safely

  • Remove valuable parts

  • Recycle metal components

  • Process the vehicle in an eco-friendly way

This reduces waste and supports Ontario’s circular economy.

Final Thoughts

Scrapping a car in Ontario is easy when you follow the right steps gather your documents, compare quotes, choose a reputable scrapyard, and complete the legal transfer. By working with a licensed scrap car removal service, you earn fair cash for your vehicle while ensuring it is recycled safely and responsibly.