How Much Is My Scrap Car Worth in Canada?
A scrap car in Canada is typically worth $200–$1,000 CADdepending on the vehicle's weight, catalytic converter, condition, and province. Use the free calculator below for an instant estimate based on your specific vehicle and current steel prices.
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Quick answer
$200–$600
Typical car or compact SUV
$400–$850
Full-size pickup or SUV
$80–$200
OEM catalytic converter alone
Based on Ontario steel at $0.37–$0.52/kg and OEM catalytic converter at $85–$250. Ranges reflect condition differences. Updated 2026-07-27.
Scrap car value in Canada is calculated from three components: the vehicle's steel weight (a 1,400 kg sedan yields roughly $250–$300 in steel alone at current rates), the catalytic converter ($80–$200 for OEM units, $20–$50 for aftermarket), and an adjustment for running condition. A non-running car is worth $50–$150 less than a running one — but cosmetic damage, colour, and age have no effect on scrap value. Province matters: Ontario and BC pay the most due to proximity to steel export terminals; Saskatchewan typically pays the least. Full-size pickups and SUVs consistently fetch the highest prices because they weigh more and carry larger OEM catalytic converters.
What determines scrap car value
Four factors drive the price. Understanding them helps you negotiate a better offer.
Steel weight — the biggest driver
A typical car is 60–70% steel by weight. At current Ontario rates of $0.18–$0.22 per kg, a 1,400 kg sedan generates $250–$308 in steel value alone. Heavier vehicles — trucks, full-size SUVs — earn significantly more.
Catalytic converter
An OEM (original factory) catalytic converter contains platinum, palladium, and rhodium and is worth $80–$200 on its own. An aftermarket replacement is worth $20–$50. A missing or stolen cat reduces your offer by $80–$150 — yards notice immediately.
Vehicle condition
A car that runs and drives earns the most. A car that starts but won't drive is next. A car that won't start is worth the same as steel weight plus parts. Major damage (flood, fire, rollover) further reduces value. The difference between running and non-running is typically $50–$150.
Your province
Steel prices vary by region depending on proximity to steel mills and export ports. Ontario and BC tend to have the highest scrap prices. Saskatchewan is typically the lowest. The difference between the highest and lowest province is around $0.03–$0.05 per kg — meaningful on a 1,500 kg vehicle.
Scrap car value by vehicle type
Ontario prices with OEM catalytic converter present. Non-running vehicles are typically $50–$150 lower. Missing catalytic converter reduces value by $80–$150.
| Vehicle type | Scrap value (ON) |
|---|---|
| Compact car | $200–$500 |
| Midsize sedan | $250–$600 |
| Full-size sedan | $300–$700 |
| Compact SUV | $300–$650 |
| Minivan | $350–$750 |
| Full-size pickup | $400–$850 |
| Full-size SUV | $450–$1,000 |
Scrap car value by province
Steel prices vary across Canada. Ontario has the highest scrap prices due to its proximity to US steel markets. Saskatchewan typically pays the least due to higher transport costs.
| Province | Steel price (per kg) | Full-size pickup |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | $0.18–$0.22/kg | $400–$850 |
| British Columbia | $0.17–$0.21/kg | $380–$820 |
| Quebec | $0.17–$0.21/kg | $380–$820 |
| Alberta | $0.16–$0.20/kg | $360–$780 |
| Manitoba | $0.16–$0.20/kg | $360–$780 |
| Nova Scotia | $0.16–$0.20/kg | $360–$780 |
| Saskatchewan | $0.15–$0.19/kg | $340–$760 |
Values include OEM catalytic converter. View live prices by province →
How to get more money for your scrap car
Most people accept the first offer they get. These four steps consistently get better results.
Know your catalytic converter type before calling
If your car left the factory with an OEM catalytic converter, say so upfront. Use this: "The catalytic converter is original equipment — I'm pricing that in." Yards will pay more when they know you know.
Get at least two quotes
Call two yards in your area. A $50–$100 difference is common for the same car. Getting a second quote takes 5 minutes and often makes the first yard improve their offer.
Confirm towing is included before agreeing
Some yards quote a price then subtract $75–$150 for pickup. Always ask: "Is that price with free towing included?" before you say yes.
Use current steel prices as your reference
Steel is currently trading at $0.37–$0.52/kg in Ontario. If a yard is far below what your vehicle's weight implies, push back with the numbers.
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