How To Junk a Car in Florida

Do you have an old, broken, or unwanted car you want to sell in Florida? Don't let it become a neighborhood eyesore or take up valuable space in your driveway or garage. There are ways to get rid of an unwanted junk car in Florida.

Florida residents looking to part ways with an old vehicle have more options than ever before. Whether your car is no longer running, has been severely damaged, or simply isn't worth repairing, junking it can be a smart and practical solution. The process might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right information, it’s surprisingly straightforward—and can even put a little extra cash in your pocket.

Before you begin, it's important to understand how junk car laws work in Florida and what qualifies a vehicle as a "junk car." Knowing the basics will help you manage the process more efficiently and avoid common pitfalls. Let’s start by defining exactly what a junk car is in the eyes of the state.

What Is Considered a Junk Car in Florida?

According to Florida laws, a junk car is generally one that has one or more of these issues:

  • Not Running: The car isn't drivable because it has major mechanical problems or missing parts. Fixing it costs more than its full value.
  • Severe Damage: The car has major body damage, like a bent frame or smashed fenders.
  • Salvage Title: If the car has been written off by an insurance company, it’s considered junk.
  • Abandoned: A car left unattended on public or private property without the owner’s consent could be classified as abandoned and may be removed by authorities.
  • Unregistered or Unsafe: A car that’s been off the road for a long period, lacks proper insurance, or can’t pass a safety inspection is likely considered junk.
  • Missing Parts: If the vehicle is missing vital components such as the engine, transmission, or wheels, it’s generally deemed a junk car.

If your car fits one of these descriptions, it’s unfortunately considered a junk car and hard to sell through other methods.

Top Ways to Sell Your Junk Car in Florida

No matter if you're in South Beach or Gainesville, you can still turn that junk car into cash in Florida, even if it’s tough to sell. Here are a few different ways to go about selling your junk car:

Selling Your Junk Car to a Junkyard or Scrap Yard

If you want to get rid of the car fast, selling it to a junkyard is a good option, especially if it’s not running, needs pricey repairs, or is in poor condition.

Pros:

  • No need to fix anything or worry about passing an inspection.
  • They usually pay quickly, often in cash or by check.

Cons:

  • You might not get as much money as you would selling it privately.
  • Some junkyards may charge for towing, so make sure to ask about that.
  • Prices can vary by location, especially in big cities like Miami compared to smaller places like Homestead.

If you're wondering how to junk a non-running car in Florida quickly, a local junkyard or scrap yard is often the fastest route. Just be sure to compare offers and ask about towing to make the most of this option when junking a car in Florida.

Selling to a Private Buyer

If your car still works or has some valuable parts, you might get a better price selling it to a private buyer. But this option takes more time and effort.

Pros:

  • You can get a higher price, especially if the car runs or can be repaired.
  • You set the price and terms.

Cons:

  • It might take longer to find a buyer, especially in smaller towns like Ocala or Winter Haven.
  • You’ll need to handle all the paperwork and the title transfer.
  • You risk dealing with unreliable buyers.

While it takes more effort, selling privately is still a viable way to junk a car in Florida—especially if it’s drivable or has parts worth salvaging. For those with time and patience, it could mean a better payout.

Donating Your Junk Vehicle to Charity

If you're okay with not getting cash in hand right away, donating your car to charity is a good option, and you could even get a tax break.

Pros:

  • You may qualify for a tax deduction.
  • Donating is a good way to help out a charitable cause.

Cons:

  • No immediate cash, though you may get a tax benefit.
  • The tax deduction depends on the value of the car and your taxes.

Donating is a meaningful way to get rid of an unwanted vehicle, especially if you're not focused on getting paid. It’s another valid path when considering how to junk a car in Florida, with the added bonus of supporting a cause you care about.

Selling to a Junk Car Dealer

If you want an easy, hassle-free way to get rid of your junk car, selling it to a specialized junk car dealer is the best option. These dealers buy cars in any condition, whether they're old, damaged, or need repairs.

Pros:

  • You get cash right when they pick up the car.
  • Free towing anywhere in Florida.
  • They handle all the paperwork for you.
  • Pickup can be fast—sometimes even the same day.

For a smooth, no-hassle experience, junk car dealers make junking a car in Florida simple—especially if it's undrivable or damaged. With free towing and instant cash offers, this is one of the easiest ways to get that old car off your hands.

Why Choose ByeCar to Junk Your Car in Florida?

If you want a fast and easy way to get rid of your junk car in Florida, ByeCar is a great choice. Here's why:

Free Towing Anywhere in Florida

We know junk cars aren’t always in drivable condition, so we offer free towing no matter where you are in Florida. Whether you’re in Miami, Orlando, or a smaller town like Palm Coast, we’ll come to you and tow it away at no extra cost.

Quick Payment, No Hassles

No waiting around for payment! With ByeCar, you’ll get your cash, bank transfer, or Venmo payment right when we pick up your car. There are no delays or confusion.

We Handle All the Paperwork

In Florida, there are specific rules when it comes to junking or transferring a car, like filing the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (Form HSMV 82050). ByeCar handles all the paperwork so you don’t have to deal with any DMV red tape.

Legal Steps for Junking a Car in Florida

Selling a junk car for cash in Florida will involve a few simple but important steps. The good news is that ByeCar takes care of most of the paperwork, so there's no worry about missing something. Here's what to expect when selling a junk car.

Have Proof of Ownership

You must legally own the car and be able to prove it to junk it. You’ll need the title or some other form of proof of ownership that's in your name. If you’ve lost the title, you can request a duplicate from the Florida DMV.

Complete the Release of Liability

When you junk your car, you’ll need to submit a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (Form HSMV 82050) to the Florida DMV. This form alerts the FL DMV that you’ve junked the car and are no longer responsible for it.

Remove the License Plates

Before selling your junk car in Florida, it's very important to remove the license plates. Once you've removed them from the vehicle, your options are to either turn them at the Florida DMV or transfer them to another vehicle that's yours. This will eliminate any future liability like tolls or parking tickets.

Title Transfer to Junkyard or Dismantler

If you sell your car to a junk or salvage yard, you’ll need to sign over the title and complete the release of liability form. Make sure you get a bill of sale as proof that you sold the vehicle.

Clear Any Unpaid Tickets or Fees

Before junking your car, make sure there are no unpaid tickets, registration fees, or any other violations associated with the vehicle. The DMV may not accept the car if there are any unresolved issues.

Ready to Junk Your Car in Florida? Get Cash Today with ByeCar!

Whether you're in a big city like Miami or Orlando or even a smaller one like Tallahassee, ByeCar can help you get rid of your junk car. We offer cash payment and a free tow-away service.

ByeCar provides free towing, pays you instantly in cash, via bank transfer, or Venmo, and handles all the paperwork for you. There are no surprises or hidden fees! Get in touch now for a quick, no-obligation quote.