How to Junk a Car in Colorado
Junking a car in Colorado is a straightforward process when you follow the legal steps. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of Colorado residents get cash for their junk cars while complying with state regulations. Get your instant offer now or continue reading to learn everything you need to know.
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What Counts as a Junk Car in Colorado?
Colorado considers a car junk if it is non-operational, unsafe, or declared a total loss by an insurance company. A car that is sold for parts or scrap is also considered junk. For more information, visit our What Is a Junk Car? guide.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in Colorado
- Get Your Offer: Enter your car’s year, make, model, and condition to receive a guaranteed 7-day offer.
- Schedule Free Pickup: We arrange pickup at your convenience with a licensed towing partner.
- Sign the Title: Complete the Colorado Certificate of Title by signing in the seller section and filling out the buyer’s information and odometer reading if required.
- Get Paid on the Spot: Receive payment when we pick up the vehicle. Towing is always free.
- Submit a Notice of Transfer: Complete the Notice of Transfer of Ownership via Colorado DMV’s online portal or Form DR 2445.
- Cancel Insurance: Notify your insurance company once ownership is transferred to stop coverage.
What You Need to Junk a Car in Colorado
Colorado law requires proof of ownership, proper identification, and documentation of the transaction. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) outlines the following requirements:
- Vehicle Title: A Colorado Certificate of Title is required. If the original is lost, request a duplicate using Form DR 2539A.
- Valid Photo ID: A Colorado driver's license or state-issued ID is required to prove your identity.
- Odometer Disclosure: For vehicles less than 10 years old, complete the disclosure on the title or via Form DR 2173.
- Form DR 2445: The Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability must be filed to officially notify the DMV of the sale.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in Colorado?
Colorado requires the seller to have the title in their name to junk a vehicle. If the title is missing, a replacement can be requested using Form DR 2539A. The vehicle must not have a lien, or a lien release must be provided.
Before destruction, the VIN plate must be removed. The plate must be returned to the DMV or destroyed. Ownership paperwork must be submitted when the vehicle is scrapped.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in Colorado?
No. Colorado requires a valid title for junking a car. If you’ve lost the title, apply for a duplicate through the DMV using Form DR 2539A. Other documents like registration or a bill of sale are not accepted for junking.
Is Vehicle Registration Required to Junk a Car in Colorado?
No. The vehicle does not need to be registered to be junked, but ownership must be proven through a valid title.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. You must report the sale using the Colorado Notice of Transfer. Remove your plates and cancel your registration. If the vehicle is dismantled, remove the VIN plate and include it with the paperwork.
Licensed dismantlers in Colorado are required to report every junk vehicle they acquire to the Department of Revenue and keep records for inspection.
We helped a customer in Denver junk their non-running 2002 Subaru Outback. They had the title and ID ready. We paid $385 cash the same day and completed the transfer paperwork for them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in Colorado
- Not submitting the Notice of Transfer: You may be liable for future tolls or tickets if the DMV isn’t notified.
- Signing the title incorrectly: Cross-outs or missing signatures can cause transfer delays.
- Leaving personal items in the vehicle: Always check the trunk, glove box, and seats before pickup.
- Selling to unlicensed buyers: Only use licensed Colorado dismantlers or buyers like Junk Car Medics.
Helpful Resources
- Colorado DMV: Access forms like DR 2539A, DR 2445, and DR 2173: dmv.colorado.gov
- Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE): Regulates vehicle recycling and dismantler operations: cdphe.colorado.gov
- Colorado Automotive Recyclers Association: Find licensed auto recyclers and salvage facilities.
Junk a Car in Colorado
Junk Car Medics serves all of Colorado, including Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Fort Collins, Lakewood, and beyond. Whether you're in the mountains or on the Front Range, we make junking your car fast and legal.
Start with your free quote today and let us handle the rest.