If your old car is finally ready for its last journey, scrapping it can be an excellent way to recover some value while making an environmentally responsible decision. But just because you're saying goodbye to your car doesn't mean you should take a back seat in the process. Whether you're using a local scrap yard or a nationwide vehicle recycling service, asking the right questions ensures you get a fair deal, stay on the right side of the law, and help protect the environment.

Here's a guide to the essential questions you should ask before scrapping your car — and why they matter.

1. Are You a Licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF)?

This is the first and most important question. If the company isn’t licensed by the Environment Agency (or SEPA in Scotland), walk away. Only ATFs are legally authorised to depollute and dismantle vehicles in line with environmental legislation. Using an unlicensed company could mean your car is dismantled irresponsibly, harming the environment — and putting you at legal risk.

2. Will You Provide a Free and Transparent Quote?

A reputable scrap car service will offer a no-obligation quote, often online and within seconds. If they’re vague about pricing or insist on viewing the car before providing a quote, beware. Hidden charges and low-ball offers are often signs of a less-than-reliable operation.

A transparent quote helps you compare options and ensures you receive a fair price based on the vehicle’s weight, condition, and potential for salvage.

3. Do I Need a V5C (Logbook) to Scrap My Car?

While having a V5C makes the process smoother, it’s not a legal requirement. A trustworthy scrap car dealer will still accept your vehicle if you’ve lost the document — they’ll just need proof of identity and confirmation you’re the legal owner.

However, they should never encourage you to skip notifying the DVLA or offer to handle the logbook themselves without explanation.

4. What Happens to My Car After It Is Collected?

A responsible scrap dealer should be happy to walk you through the recycling process. From fluid removal and depollution to part resale and metal shredding, modern car scrapping is a sophisticated process designed to minimise environmental harm.

Ask how much of the car will be recycled. Reputable ATFs can recycle up to 95% of a vehicle’s materials, significantly reducing landfill and waste.

5. Do You Provide a Certificate of Destruction (CoD)?

A CoD is your official proof that your car has been scrapped and that you're no longer responsible for it. Only licensed ATFs can issue one, and receiving it ensures you're no longer liable for road tax, insurance, or penalties related to the vehicle.

6. How Will I Get Paid — and When?

Under UK law, scrap car payments must be made via bank transfer or cheque — never in cash. This is to prevent illegal activities and protect you from fraud. A reputable service will pay promptly, usually on the same day the car is collected.

7. What Are Your Environmental Practices?

Sustainability should be more than a buzzword. Ask how the company handles waste, what they do with reusable parts, and whether they meet recycling targets. The best vehicle recyclers will proudly discuss their green credentials and might even have environmental policies published online.

>8. How Can I Reach You if I Have Questions Later?

A good scrap car service won’t disappear once your vehicle is collected. Ensure they provide precise contact details, including a phone number, email address, and, ideally, a physical address. Transparency and communication are key to trust.

Why These Questions Matter

Scrapping your car might seem like a straightforward decision, but asking these questions protects you from poor service, ensures you comply with legal requirements, and helps the planet too. It's not just about waving goodbye to your car — it's about doing it the right way.

Thinking of Scrapping Your Vehicle?

At Motorwise, we make the process quick, simple, and environmentally sound. We're fully licensed, offer fast free quotes, and work with trusted ATFs across the UK. Whether your car is dead on the driveway or still running, we’ll collect it, pay you fairly, and handle everything professionally.

Get in touch today for a quote — and find out how much you can be paid to scrap your car!