How to check if a car has been scrapped in the UK

Cars can’t run forever, and eventually, their lifespan ends. When that time finally arrives, vehicles are scrapped because they’re no longer roadworthy. However, in some cases, scrapped cars make their way back to the used vehicle market, even though they’re unsafe to drive and may require expensive repairs.

But how can you tell if the car you’re about to buy has been scrapped? In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about conducting a car scrap check, so you can stay one step ahead of scammers.

What is a scrapped vehicle?

A scrapped vehicle is one that has reached the end of its useful life and is sent to an authorised treatment facility (ATF) for recycling. This means the car is no longer safe to drive due to extensive damage or mechanical failure, and fixing it is no longer cost-effective.

A scrapyard can collect your vehicle for you, or you can drop it off at their facilities. They will weigh your car and pay you for the recycled metals value, such as that found in aluminium, steel, or copper.

The scrap price for a car can vary between scrap yards, so make sure to compare several facilities to get the best deal for your vehicle.

How to scrap your vehicle

Scrapping your vehicle is a simple process that doesn’t take much time. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. If you want to keep your number plate, apply on the gov.uk website.
2. Scrap your car at an authorised treatment facility (ATF).
3. Hand over your V5C log book to the ATF, but keep the ‘sell, transfer or part-exchange your vehicle to the motor trade’ section.
4. Inform the DVLA that you’ve scrapped your car.

Your car will no longer be registered under your name, and you’ll have proof that it’s been scrapped. If you fail to inform the DVLA that your car was scrapped, you could face a fine of up to £1,000.

How can scrapped cars in the UK end up in the used car market again?

Sometimes, scrapped or written-off cars can make their way back into the used vehicle market, leaving the new owner unaware that they’re driving an unsafe car. But how can a vehicle that was destined for the scrap heap be brought back to life?

Illegal repair

Scammers can repair a scrapped or written-off vehicle and sell it, using cheap parts to maximise profit. In some cases, a car is put together using parts from several scrapped vehicles, creating a significant safety hazard.

Fraudulent paperwork

Scammers may remove the scrapped status from the vehicle’s documents or create a counterfeit V5C log book to make everything appear legitimate. If something feels off with the seller, it’s best to walk away.

Export to other countries

Written-off cars often get exported to other countries, where they are repaired and sold. Since countries don’t typically share vehicle data, many buyers end up purchasing cars in poor condition without knowing their history.

Check if a car has been scrapped with carVertical

The easiest way to check if a car has been scrapped or written off is by getting a carVertical history report. In addition to details about mileage fraud and past damages, the report contains a section on the car's financial and legal status. If the vehicle you’re interested in has been marked as scrapped, it’s best to move on and skip that model.

Before buying a used car, always explore the market to understand the price range for your chosen model. If the vehicle is being sold for less than the market average, don’t rush to send money to the seller – patience is key in negotiations, especially if the seller is trying to create a sense of urgency. When a price seems too good to be true, the car may be hiding some dark secrets.

Also, be sure to carefully examine the V5C log book to confirm it’s genuine, as scammers may sometimes alter or try to forge it.