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5 min read • 4 January 2026 

# What Actually Happens When Your Car Is Scrapped?

When you scrap your car with us, it doesn't just end up in a pile somewhere. The process is carefully regulated and surprisingly efficient. Here's exactly what happens.

First, we collect your car from your home, work, or wherever it is. Our recovery trucks can handle any vehicle — runners, non-runners, even cars with no wheels. We pay you on the spot, the exact amount we quoted.

Your car arrives at our Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). This is important — only licensed ATFs can legally scrap vehicles. Using an unlicensed operator can land you with a fine and you'll still be the registered keeper.

The depollution process comes first. All hazardous materials are removed: fuel, oil, brake fluid, coolant, battery acid, and air conditioning gases. These are disposed of safely and in compliance with environmental regulations.

Next, reusable parts are identified and removed. Things like catalytic converters, alloy wheels, and certain engine components have value and can be reused or refurbished.

The remaining shell is crushed and shredded. The metals — steel, aluminium, copper — are separated and sent to smelters for recycling. Around 95% of a modern car can be recycled.

Finally, we issue a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) and notify the DVLA that your vehicle has been scrapped. This is crucial — it officially ends your responsibility for the vehicle, including road tax and any future fines.

## Ready to Scrap Your Car? 

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