How to Junk a Car in Illinois
Junking a car in Illinois is a simple process when done properly. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of Illinois residents legally junk their vehicles and get paid fast. We follow all Illinois Secretary of State and environmental rules. Get an instant offer now or continue reading to learn everything you need to know.
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What Counts as a Junk Car in Illinois?
Illinois defines a junk vehicle as one that is no longer safe or operable and is sold for parts or scrap. This includes vehicles that insurance companies declare a total loss. Learn more in our What Is a Junk Car? guide.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in Illinois
- Get Your Offer: Share your vehicle’s details and receive a guaranteed 7-day offer.
- Schedule Free Pickup: Choose a pickup time that works for you. Towing is always free.
- Sign the Title: Sign the back of the Illinois Certificate of Title in the “Assignment of Title” section. Include the buyer's name and odometer reading if applicable.
- Get Paid on the Spot: Receive your payment at the time of pickup. We tow the car at no cost.
- Remove the Plates: Remove your license plates before pickup. You can transfer or return them to the Secretary of State if needed.
- Notify the Illinois Secretary of State: Report the vehicle transfer by mailing in the Seller’s Notice of Sale (attached to the title) or online.
- Cancel Insurance: Let your insurance provider know the car has been sold and is no longer in your possession.
What You Need to Junk a Car in Illinois
In Illinois, junking a car requires transferring ownership and submitting proper documentation. The Illinois Secretary of State governs these requirements:
- Vehicle Title: You must have the title in your name. If lost, request a duplicate using Form VSD 190.
- Photo ID: A valid Illinois driver’s license or state-issued ID to confirm identity.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles under 10 years old. Included on the title or separate form.
- Seller’s Notice of Sale: Detach and mail to the Secretary of State or file online to protect yourself from liability.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in Illinois?
In Illinois, you must have a valid title to junk a car. If the title is lost, request a duplicate from the Secretary of State using Form VSD 190. The title must be free of any liens.
Before disposal, remove the VIN plate. Destroy the plate or submit it to the Secretary of State with your paperwork. All documents must match the seller’s identity.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in Illinois?
No. You need the title in your name to junk a car in Illinois. If it’s lost, apply for a replacement using Form VSD 190.
Do I Need to Be Registered to Junk a Car?
No. As long as you have a valid title in your name, you can junk the car without current registration.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. When you junk a vehicle in Illinois, you must complete the title transfer and notify the Secretary of State. Remove the license plates and cancel your registration. If the car is dismantled, remove the VIN plate and destroy or return it with the ownership documents.
Licensed dismantlers in Illinois must report all junk vehicle acquisitions to the state and keep records for verification.
We recently helped a seller in Chicago junk their 2011 Chevy Impala that had been sitting for months. They signed the title, mailed in the notice of sale, and we paid $505 on the spot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in Illinois
- Forgetting to remove plates: Always remove and either transfer or return your license plates.
- Not submitting the notice of sale: This step protects you from future liability if the buyer does not register the car.
- Signing the title incorrectly: Incomplete or incorrect title transfers can void the sale.
- Selling to unlicensed buyers: Only work with licensed auto recyclers and buyers in Illinois.
Helpful Resources
- Illinois Secretary of State: Title, registration, and transfer forms: ilsos.gov
- Illinois EPA: Information on vehicle recycling and scrap regulations: illinois.gov/epa
- Illinois Automotive Recyclers Association: Find licensed dismantlers across the state.
Junk a Car in Illinois
Junk Car Medics offers fast and legal junk car removal across Illinois including Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, Naperville, Springfield, and beyond. We help you stay compliant with all state laws while getting paid top dollar.
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