Cash for Mechanic Special Vehicles

A mechanic special refers to a vehicle that requires substantial repairs before it is legally fit for use on the road (Kelley Blue Book glossary). Unlike a fixer-upper that requires minor repairs, a mechanic special usually has one major issue, such as a blown engine, an inoperable transmission, a failed timing belt, or an electrical failure. As-is vehicles are generally sold for less than market value, and it is assumed that the buyer will have some mechanical background to repair this vehicle.

The process for selling a mechanic special vehicle is fairly straightforward. Cash for cars companies, such as Sell Us Your Car, will purchase your mechanic special regardless of condition. Simply provide a few basic details, and you will receive an instant quote. If you accept the offer, we schedule a free pickup and payment for your vehicle. This saves you time and effort of finding someone to purchase your vehicle with an understanding of the car from a mechanical project standpoint.

The quickest way to sell your mechanic special is through a cash for cars company. When selling your vehicle privately, you will have to post an advertisement, receive inquiries, conduct viewings, and negotiate with multiple buyers — a process that can take weeks (Edmunds private party selling guide). At Sell Us Your Car, you can sell your vehicle in minutes while using the internet. You provide us with details about your vehicle, we provide you with a fair cash offer, and, if you accept, we will pick up your vehicle on the same or next day. You receive your payment when we pick up your car.

How Much Is My Mechanic-Special Car Worth

The value of your vehicle will depend on a number of factors. Both the make and model of the car are important. Generally, popular vehicles are in demand for parts by companies in the cash for cars network. The severity of the mechanical issue is also important; your vehicle may have significant engine failure, but if it has good body panels, interior pieces, and electrical components, there is still a market for it even with the engine failure. We consider the potential for a part-out sale, scrap metal value of the vehicle, and market conditions. The most significant factor is the ratio of parts value to repair cost (NADA Used Car Guide methodology).

Who Buys Mechanic-Special Cars

There are several groups of buyers who will be interested in purchasing your vehicle. Individual mechanics and hobbyists will look for project vehicles on the internet. Scrap yards buy vehicles primarily for recycling metals and salvaging reusable parts. Some dealers will take the vehicle; however, they will pay you less money than a cash for cars company or scrap yard, because they will sell the vehicle at auction (Manheim auction market insights). Cash for cars companies, such as Sell Us Your Car, are often the best option for disposing of your vehicle. We evaluate your vehicle based on its total remaining value, give you a fair price, provide you with free towing, and pay you the day we pick up your vehicle.

How Do I Price a Mechanic-Special Car

To determine a value for your vehicle, look for similar vehicles in good working condition selling on the internet, then deduct the cost to repair the vehicle to make it run. Buyers will also deduct for their labor to fix the vehicle and for assuming the risk associated with making the repairs. Online valuation tools are typically not good estimates of the value of a mechanic special vehicle, since these tools are geared toward running vehicles. The Carfax selling guide recommends researching comparable sales for vehicles with similar issues. Request a free online cash quote from Sell Us Your Car, as it will be completed in approximately two minutes.

How Do I List a Car as a Mechanic Special and What Should I Disclose

When writing your advertisement or title, clearly identify that you are selling a “mechanic special.” Highlight all remedial repairs needed, such as a seized engine, a bad transmission, or electrical problems. Include the make, model, year, mileage, and title status in your advertisement. Take as many pictures as possible, including the engine bay, interior, exterior, and any damage, if applicable. The FTC Used Car Rule requires dealers to post a Buyer’s Guide on used vehicles, and sellers should explicitly disclose all mechanical defects, history of any accidents, title brands, and flood damage to the potential buyers of your vehicle.

Should I Sell My Car as a Mechanic Special or Scrap It

The potential value of your vehicle is based on its condition; if your vehicle has a market for parts or is a desirable make or model, it may be more profitable to sell as a mechanic special. That said, when sold to a cash for cars company or a scrap yard, your mechanic special will generally sell for a similar amount since both types of buyers will determine a value based on a combination of part value and scrap content (EPA automotive recycling information). At Sell Us Your Car, we will provide you with a free quote, so you can compare our offer with other buyers, without any obligation to you.