Scrap yards calculate junk car value primarily by weight. A typical 3,000-pound sedan at current scrap steel rates ($0.06-$0.10/lb) is worth $180-$300 for the metal alone. But most buyers pay more than pure scrap because they also factor in the catalytic converter, battery, and salvageable parts. Here is how the math works.
The weight formula
Base scrap value = Vehicle weight (lbs) × Scrap steel price per pound
| Vehicle Type | Avg. Weight | At $0.06/lb | At $0.08/lb | At $0.10/lb |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact car (Civic, Corolla) | 2,800 lbs | $168 | $224 | $280 |
| Midsize sedan (Camry, Accord) | 3,300 lbs | $198 | $264 | $330 |
| Full-size sedan (Impala, Taurus) | 3,800 lbs | $228 | $304 | $380 |
| Compact SUV (RAV4, CR-V) | 3,500 lbs | $210 | $280 | $350 |
| Full-size SUV (Tahoe, Expedition) | 5,500 lbs | $330 | $440 | $550 |
| Pickup truck (F-150, Silverado) | 4,500 lbs | $270 | $360 | $450 |
| Heavy-duty truck (F-250, 2500) | 6,500 lbs | $390 | $520 | $650 |
What adds value beyond weight
| Component | Added Value |
|---|---|
| Catalytic converter (OEM) | $50–$1,500 |
| Battery (lead-acid) | $8–$15 |
| Aluminum wheels (set of 4) | $40–$100 |
| Running engine | $100–$500 premium |
| Good transmission | $75–$300 premium |
| Clean title (vs. no title) | $50–$150 premium |
Real-world example: A 2010 Toyota Camry weighing 3,300 lbs with a functioning catalytic converter and clean title: Scrap metal ($264) + Catalytic converter ($350) + Battery ($10) + Title premium ($100) = $724 total offer. That is more than 2x the pure scrap value.
Current scrap steel prices (2026)
Scrap steel prices fluctuate monthly based on global demand, trade policies, and mill capacity. As of April 2026:
- Light iron / auto bodies: $120–$180 per gross ton ($0.06–$0.09/lb)
- Heavy steel / structural: $200–$260 per gross ton ($0.10–$0.13/lb)
- Shredded scrap: $300–$380 per gross ton ($0.15–$0.19/lb)
Junkyards buy at the "light iron" rate because cars require processing (draining fluids, removing hazardous materials) before they can be shredded.
Find out what your car is really worth
We factor weight, parts, converter, and condition into every offer. Free towing included.
Get Your Instant OfferScrap steel rates are $0.06-$0.10/lb in 2026. A 3,000-lb car is worth $180-$300 for metal alone. Add catalytic converter, battery, and parts for the real value.
Compact cars: 2,500-3,000 lbs. Midsize sedans: 3,000-3,500 lbs. Full-size trucks: 4,000-5,500 lbs. SUVs: 3,500-5,000 lbs. Heavier = more money at the scrapyard.
