It’s that time of year again – your MOT is looming, and you’re starting to wonder if your old car will make it through another test. For many UK drivers, this question pops up sooner or later: should you scrap your car before it fails its MOT? Let’s break it down so you can decide what’s best for you, your wallet, and your peace of mind.
What Happens If Your Car Fails Its MOT?
First, it’s good to know what an MOT failure means. If your car fails, you’ll be given a VT30 certificate, which explains why it didn’t pass. Some faults might be minor and cheap to fix, while others can cost more than the car’s actually worth.
Once your car fails, you can’t drive it on the road (except to a pre-booked MOT or repair) if the previous MOT has expired. So if the repairs aren’t worth it, you might be left with a car you can’t legally use.
Why Scrap Before the MOT?
Scrapping before an MOT test can make sense in some cases:
- Avoid repair bills – If you suspect big issues (like rust, engine problems, or failing brakes), repairs could cost more than your car’s value.
- Keep its scrap value higher – Scrap yards may pay more for a car with a valid MOT or one that’s still technically roadworthy.
- No surprises – You avoid the hassle of booking repairs only to realise it’s not worth fixing.
Imagine your car needs a new exhaust, tyres, and brake pads – suddenly you’re spending hundreds on a car that’s barely worth that much. In cases like that, it can be smarter to cut your losses.
How Do Scrap Yards Value a Car?
When you scrap a car, its value depends on factors like:
- Weight and metal content – Heavier cars fetch more for scrap metal.
- Age and condition – If it’s drivable, you may get more.
- Parts – Some parts may be reused, boosting the price.
A car that runs and drives can be worth more than a non-runner because it’s easier to move and may have reusable parts in better condition.
Should You Sell Instead of Scrap?
If your car is older but still running and has a valid MOT, you might get more by selling it privately than scrapping it. Some buyers look for cheap cars to repair or use for parts.
However, selling privately comes with its own hassles – tyre kickers, time wasters, and haggling over pennies. If you want it gone quickly, scrapping might still be your best bet.
What About Your Paperwork?
If you decide to scrap before the MOT, always use a reputable scrap my car company. They’ll handle things properly and give you a Certificate of Destruction (CoD). Don’t forget to inform the DVLA using your V5C logbook to avoid any future headaches.
Also, remember it’s illegal for scrapyards to pay you in cash in the UK – payment should be by bank transfer or cheque.
Final Thoughts
So, should you scrap your car before it fails its MOT? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Think about what repairs might cost, how much your car is worth, and whether the hassle of keeping it on the road is worth it.
If your car’s turning into a money pit, scrapping it before the test can save you time and stress. But if the repairs are minor and the car’s got a bit more life left, you might squeeze out another year or two.
When in doubt, get a few quotes from reputable scrapyards and garages so you can make an informed choice. That way, you’ll know whether it’s worth one more trip around the block – or a one-way ticket to the scrapyard.
Need help deciding? Speak to us – we’ve seen it all before and can help you work out what makes the most sense for you.
