If your old car has become more of a headache than a help, it might be time to consider scrapping it. Whether it’s frequent breakdowns, rising maintenance costs, or simply the fact that it’s over 15 years old, vehicle scrapping is becoming an increasingly viable solution in India. With the Government’s scrappage policy and the rise of organized vehicle scrap companies in India, saying goodbye to your aging vehicle is no longer a hassle — it’s a smart move.

Signs Your Car Is Ready for Scrapping

Before you rush to a scrap yard, take a minute to see if your vehicle is really at the end of the road. Here are a few telltale signs:

  • Your car is over 15 years old and no longer meets BS6 emission norms.

  • You’re spending more on repairs than the vehicle’s actual worth.

  • The vehicle has a failed or expired fitness certificate.

  • It’s difficult to get insurance renewed.

  • Rust or body damage is beyond economic repair.

If you’re ticking off 3 or more of these, it’s time to start exploring vehicle scrap companies in India.

Understanding the Vehicle Scrappage Policy in India

In 2021, the Indian Government launched a voluntary vehicle scrappage policy aimed at phasing out old, polluting vehicles. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Private vehicles over 20 years and commercial vehicles over 15 years will need to pass fitness tests to continue running.

  • Failing the fitness test means mandatory deregistration and disposal at an RVSF (Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility).

  • Incentives include up to 25% rebate on road tax for new vehicle purchases and possible scrappage value benefits from dealers.

States like Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra are setting up dedicated scrapping facilities to streamline this.

Comparing Reselling vs Scrapping

Still thinking if selling it might get you a better deal? Think again.

  • Reselling an old vehicle that doesn’t meet emission norms can be risky, legally and financially.

  • Buyers are less likely to purchase outdated models with high maintenance needs.

  • Scrapping offers transparent documentation and instant value — no shady deals involved.

If your car can’t fetch more than ₹20,000–₹30,000 in resale, scrapping might be the smarter, stress-free choice.

How to Evaluate Your Car’s Scrap Value

Wondering how much you’ll get for that old vehicle? Here’s what scrap value depends on:

  • Weight and metal content of your vehicle (steel, aluminium, etc.)

  • Parts that can be salvaged like tyres, batteries, alternators, etc.

  • Current scrap metal rates, which may vary monthly

Typical scrap value ranges between ₹15–₹25 per kg of vehicle weight. So, an 800 kg car can fetch you anywhere from ₹12,000–₹20,000.

You can also explore online platforms offering scrap vehicles for sale in India — these help you benchmark prices.

Legal and RTO Formalities Before Scrapping

Don’t skip the paperwork! Here's a checklist for RTO formalities:

  • Original RC (Registration Certificate)

  • Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN)

  • Affidavit stating ownership and consent to scrap

  • Cancelled insurance copy (if any)

  • Submit all documents to the RTO and apply for vehicle deregistration

Once approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Deposit from the scrapper — this is required to claim scrappage benefits later.

Choosing the Right Authorized Scrapping Centre

Always opt for a Government-authorized Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF). These are compliant with environmental rules and offer a verified process.

How to spot them:

  • Listed on the MoRTH (Ministry of Road Transport & Highways) website

  • Provide a Certificate of Destruction (CoD)

  • Transparent weighing and pricing

Some leading vehicle scrap companies in India include CERO, Abhishek Group, Maruti Suzuki’s scrap yards, and various state-approved facilities.

Benefits of Scrapping Your Old Vehicle

Still on the fence? Here’s what you stand to gain:

  • Upfront cash from scrapping value

  • Up to ₹50,000 rebate or discounts on new vehicle purchase

  • Road tax concession (15–25%) for your next car

  • Cleaner environment by reducing air pollution and carbon footprint

  • Peace of mind with legal closure of your vehicle

According to MoRTH, phasing out just 1 million old vehicles can reduce 17% of air pollutants in cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

Things to Remove from Your Car Before Scrapping

Before the tow truck arrives, make sure you remove:

  • Your personal documents and belongings

  • Removable gadgets or accessories (GPS, speakers)

  • Fuel or gas cylinders

  • Number plates (if you're keeping a custom registration)

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Scrapping

Here’s what not to do:

  • Scrapping your car without deregistering it from the RTO

  • Not getting a Certificate of Destruction

  • Going to an unauthorized scrap dealer for quick cash

  • Failing to compare scrap offers from 2–3 vendors

These mistakes could lead to fines or even legal trouble later.

Conclusion: How to Decide Smartly

If your car has crossed its prime and is more of a liability than an asset, it’s probably time to scrap it. Think about the financial, environmental, and legal aspects. With many reliable vehicle scrap companies in India, the process is smoother and more rewarding than ever. And hey — scrapping your old ride could be the perfect excuse to bring home that new SUV you’ve been eyeing!