Summary
Yes, you can sell a car that doesn’t run.
Start by working out what is wrong with the vehicle, gathering its basic details and being clear with the buyer that it cannot be driven.
A buyer can then assess the car based on its condition and let you know whether they can make an offer and arrange collection.
Pointers:
- Be upfront that the car does not run.
- Provide the make, model, year, kilometres and location.
- Explain what you know about the fault.
- Get an offer based on the actual vehicle.
- Confirm how the car will be collected before completing the sale.
Can You Sell a Car That Doesn't Run?
Yes. A vehicle does not have to be running to be sold.
A non-running car might have an engine, transmission, electrical or other mechanical problem. It may also have been sitting unused for some time.
The important part is to describe its condition accurately so a potential buyer knows what they are assessing.
What Do You Need Before Selling a Non-Running Car?
- make and model
- year
- kilometres
- current location
- whether it starts
- whether it can move under its own power
- any known mechanical problems or damage
Learn more about getting rid of damaged or non-running cars here.
How to Sell a Car That Doesn't Run
1. Describe the problem
Tell the buyer that the vehicle is non-running and explain any faults you know about.
2. Provide the vehicle details
Share the make, model, year, kilometres, condition and location.
3. Get an offer
The buyer can assess the vehicle using the information provided and let you know whether they can make an offer.
4. Arrange collection
Because the vehicle cannot be driven normally, confirm how it will be collected before completing the sale.
How Much Is a Car That Doesn't Run Worth?
There is no standard value for a non-running car. The amount someone may offer can depend on:
- make and model
- year
- kilometres
- overall condition
- vehicle location
- the fault causing it not to run
- engine and transmission condition
- whether the vehicle is complete
Two cars with similar faults can still have different values. The most useful starting point is an assessment of the actual vehicle rather than a generic non-running car price.
Where Can I Sell a Car That Doesn't Run?
A non-running vehicle can be offered to a buyer that accepts cars in that condition.
Before agreeing to sell, confirm that the buyer understands the vehicle does not run and whether collection can be arranged from its current location.
If you want Cash For Car NZ to assess your vehicle, see our damaged and non-running car buying service.
What Paperwork Is Needed When the Car Is Sold?
If the vehicle changes hands, both the seller and buyer need to notify NZTA so the registered person can be changed. NZTA notes that being the registered person is not the same as proving legal ownership.
Do not automatically cancel the vehicle’s registration just because it does not run. Registration cancellation applies when a vehicle is being permanently taken off the road or has reached the end of its life. Different steps apply when selling a vehicle to a wrecker.
Check the current NZTA requirements for your situation before completing the transaction.
Check out this guide for Changing Vehicle Ownership in NZ.
Selling a Car That Doesn't Run: FAQs
Can I sell my car if it won’t start?
Yes. Tell the buyer that the car does not start and provide any information you have about the fault.
Do I need to repair the car before selling it?
No. You can offer the vehicle for sale in its current condition. Make sure the buyer knows it is non-running.
Do I need to know why the car isn’t running?
No. If you know what the problem is, provide that information. If you don’t know, avoid guessing and let the buyer assess the vehicle based on the available details.
How is a non-running car collected?
That depends on the buyer and the vehicle’s location. Confirm the collection arrangements before accepting an offer.
Do I need to remove the number plates?
Not simply because you’re selling a non-running vehicle. NZTA requires plates to be handed in when registration is being cancelled. The correct process depends on what is happening to the vehicle.
Want to Sell a Car That Doesn't Run?
Tell us what vehicle you have, what you know about the problem and where the car is located.
Cash For Car NZ can assess non-running vehicles and let you know the available offer and collection options.
Request an Offer for My Non-Running Car:
