How to Junk a Car in North Carolina
Junking a car in North Carolina is easy if you follow the proper steps. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of North Carolina residents sell their junk cars legally and quickly. We handle the process in accordance with North Carolina DMV regulations. 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 North Carolina?
The NCDMV defines a junk car as one that is damaged, inoperable, or unsafe to drive. It includes vehicles that are sold for scrap or marked as salvage. Read our What Is a Junk Car? guide for more details.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in North Carolina
- Get Your Offer: Submit your car’s year, make, model, and condition to receive a guaranteed 7-day offer.
- Schedule Free Pickup: Choose a convenient time for vehicle pickup. We handle towing at no cost.
- Sign the Title: Complete the back of the North Carolina Certificate of Title by signing as the seller. Include the buyer's name and date of sale. The title must be free of liens unless a lien release is provided.
- Get Paid on the Spot: We provide payment at the time of pickup and tow the vehicle away.
- Submit a Damage Disclosure Statement (if required): For vehicles less than 5 years old, complete the Damage Disclosure Statement (Form MVR-181).
- Remove Plates and Notify NCDMV: Remove your license plates and submit a Notice of Transfer of Ownership using Form MVR-608 or online.
- Cancel Insurance: Contact your insurer to cancel your policy once the sale is finalized.
What You Need to Junk a Car in North Carolina
The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) requires proof of ownership and specific forms to legally junk a vehicle. You must properly complete title documentation and follow NCDMV reporting guidelines.
- Vehicle Title: Required to prove ownership. Apply for a duplicate using Form MVR-4 if lost. All liens must be released.
- Photo ID: North Carolina driver’s license or state-issued ID to verify identity.
- Damage Disclosure: Required for vehicles under 5 years old. Use Form MVR-181 if applicable.
- Form MVR-608: Use to report the transfer of ownership and release yourself from liability.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in North Carolina?
North Carolina law requires a valid title in the seller’s name to junk a car. If the title is lost, request a duplicate using Form MVR-4. The title must not have an active lien unless a lien release is provided.
Before the vehicle is dismantled or destroyed, remove the VIN plate. Destroy the plate or deliver it to the NCDMV with the ownership paperwork.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in North Carolina?
No. The state requires a valid title in the seller’s name. If the title is lost, you must request a replacement using Form MVR-4 before selling the vehicle.
Is Registration Required to Junk a Car in North Carolina?
No. You do not need active registration to junk a vehicle, but the title must be in your name.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. You must remove your license plates and submit Form MVR-608 to report the transfer. Cancel your registration. If the vehicle will be destroyed, remove the VIN plate and include it with your documents.
Licensed dismantlers in North Carolina must submit a Statement of Acquisition and record how each junk vehicle was obtained.
We recently helped someone in Charlotte junk their 2003 Honda Accord with a blown transmission. They had the title ready, and we paid $445 the same day with free towing included.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in North Carolina
- Forgetting to remove license plates: Always take them off and return them to the NCDMV if required.
- Not reporting the transfer: Failure to file Form MVR-608 can lead to future liability.
- Leaving out the buyer's name on the title: This can void the transaction or create legal issues.
- Selling to an unlicensed buyer: Only work with licensed dismantlers and recyclers in North Carolina.
Helpful Resources
- North Carolina DMV (NCDMV): Access title and transfer forms, including MVR-4, MVR-181, and MVR-608: ncdot.gov/dmv
- North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ): Regulates automotive recycling and dismantling: deq.nc.gov
- Carolina Auto Recyclers Association: Lists licensed dismantlers across North Carolina.
Junk a Car in North Carolina
We provide junk car removal throughout North Carolina, including Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Durham, Winston-Salem, and surrounding areas. Whether you're in a major city or rural area, we help you junk your car the right way.
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