Got A Clunker? We'll Buy it From You!

Enter your zip code below to get your FREE estimate and see how much your car is worth. Get paid the real cash value of your car in 24-48 hours!

What Is The Cash For Clunkers Program?

The Car Allowance Rebate System, colloquially known as “cash for clunkers,” was introduced in summer 2009 by the Obama administration. The program encouraged Americans to sell their old, less-fuel efficient vehicles in favor of newer cars with better safety ratings and gas mileage.

The purpose of the program was to rejuvenate the auto industry in the midst of the Great Recession. While it was in effect, it was a major success, requiring additional cash injections to continue operating due to high demand.

However, the program only ran from July to November 2009. It was not restarted after that.

Will Cash For Clunkers Return In 2024?

a rusty car stands on the street against the background of a pink buildingThus far, the current administration has not made any promises to bring the program back. However, due to financial concerns in the automotive industry, some American car makers like Ford have suggested that a comeback would be beneficial.

Some lawmakers have proposed reintroducing the program to encourage consumers to buy more electric vehicles. Others have proposed it as a way to once again bolster American car manufacturers.

If there is a Cash For Clunkers 2024 program, it may be modified to take into account concerns about potential negative effects from the 2009 attempt. Some economists said that many of the new cars purchased were from consumers who would have bought new cars eventually anyway. The temporary surge in sales while the program was in place, they said, was counteracted by a major dip in sales that followed the end of the program.

For now, there are no official plans to bring the program back, and there’s no Cash for Clunkers bill in Congress. If it does return, chances are some key details in the program will be altered to accomplish new goals and prevent a future hit to the industry.

Cash For Clunkers In California

Although the Cash for Clunkers program was a temporary measure for the federal government, California enacted a similar program that continues to this day. The vehicle retirement program encourages California residents to recycle older cars in order to receive a rebate of up to $1,500.

Eligibility requirements for this program depend on an applicant’s household income. To qualify for the benefit, individuals should earn less than 225 percent of the federal poverty level for their household.

How can I get an instant quote for my vehicle?

It's simple and it takes less than 90 seconds... click the button below to get started and find out how much your junk vehicle is worth!

Dark blue button with arrows, timer icon and text Get an offer in less than 90 seconds

Vehicle Pick-up is FREE Nationwide. No Haggle. No Fees. We are A+ rated business at BBB.

How To Sell Your Clunker For Cash

cars in a junkyard stacked on top of each otherIf you are not a California resident, you can still sell your clunker and get paid for it. However, you won’t be able to do so for the federal government.

There are many used and damaged car buyers who purchase and recycle damaged or non-running vehicles. You can sell your car to:

  • A junkyard or scrapyard

  • A dealership

  • A private individual

  • An online car buyer - like DamagedCars!

It’s up to you to determine what choice is the right one for you. Junkyards may require you to visit in person or pay fees to tow your vehicle. Additionally, you may have to call multiple different yards to get quotes.

Dealerships will typically offer you a low trade-in value for a damaged car. However, you can put that value towards the purchase of a new car, if you want to sell your car and get a new one as soon as possible.

Depending on your vehicle’s make and model as well as your location, selling it privately could make you the most money. However, in some cases you won’t get paid the market value for your car. Additionally, you have to schedule times for potential buyers to see the vehicle.

The easiest way to sell your car quickly and for a fair price is to go online. However, not all online car buyers are alike. Find out why DamagedCars is the right choice for you.

Why Selling To DamagedCars Is Your Best Choice

happy man holds a phone in his hand, sits at a desk in front of the computerDamagedCars has over a decade of experience buying less-than-perfect vehicles. We know how to find out exactly what your car is worth and how to make you a fair market offer. It takes less than 90 seconds to get a quote from us, and there’s no obligation when you get one.

Additionally, our quotes ALWAYS include FREE towing and title transfer. You won’t have to pay any fees or charges to use our service. We can help you schedule your free pickup in under 48 business hours, so you can sell your car and get paid fast.

How To Sell Your Clunker To DamagedCars

Selling your clunker to DamagedCars is easy. All you have to do is:

  1. Click “get offer.”

  2. Fill out the form.

  3. Check out your quote!

Include photos of your vehicle and its VIN to receive a guaranteed offer. If you like our price, we can help you schedule your pickup at a time convenient for you.

If you aren’t ready to sell, that’s fine. Our offers are guaranteed for seven days, so you have time to think it over. Once you are ready, all you have to do is reach out to our associate buyers to complete the sale.

The tow truck driver will arrive with a check in hand. All you need to do is sign the title and hand over the keys, and you’ll be paid on the spot.

DamagedCars is the modern, safe and convenient way to sell your car fast. Why wait? Contact us and get started today.

Dark blue button with arrows, timer icon and text Get an offer in less than 90 seconds

3/01/2024

Get a Cash Offer for Your Clunker in 90 Seconds