Cash for junk cars in Miami, FL

Who buys junk cars in Miami?

Junk cars in Miami are bought by salvage dealers, registered secondary metals recyclers and the tow operators who haul for them. Calling (786) 284-6998 puts you in touch with a local buyer who makes an offer by phone and sends a truck to collect the car.

Florida regulates who can take a car for scrap. Under section 319.30 a buyer has to record the seller's name, address and driver license or ID number, and report the vehicle to the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System. So expect to be asked for your ID. The law requires it.

What kinds of cars get a cash offer?

Cars, pickups, vans and SUVs in any condition get an offer: not running, crashed, flood damaged, failed inspection elsewhere, missing parts or simply old. A complete car that still starts is usually worth more than a stripped shell, but both can be sold.

Be ready for these questions on the call:

Does it start and drive? A running car can sometimes be resold rather than scrapped.

Is it complete? The catalytic converter, engine, transmission, wheels and battery carry most of the value.

Is there a title? And is your name on it.

Is there a loan on it? A lien has to be dealt with first. With an active lien, the state notifies the lienholder and the car is held.

How do I get paid for a junk car?

You are paid at pickup, once the title or derelict vehicle certificate is signed and your ID is checked. Agree on the amount and the form of payment during the call, so there is nothing to work out in the driveway.

One rule is worth knowing. If the person selling the car is not the owner of record, Florida requires the buyer to pay by check or money order made out to the seller, and to take a thumbprint on the certificate. If the title is in your name, this does not apply to you.

What should I do before the tow truck arrives?

Remove the license plate, take your belongings and any toll transponder out of the car, and have your ID and the title in hand. If the car is in a garage or a gated lot, sort out access for the truck.

Afterwards, cancel the insurance on the car and file a notice of sale (HSMV 82050) so tolls, tickets or anything else tied to that vehicle stop being yours. The full order of steps is on the how-to page.