How to Junk a Car in Michigan
Junking a car in Michigan is easy when you follow the correct steps. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of Michigan residents sell their junk cars while complying with Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) rules. We make the process simple, fast, and legal. 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 Michigan?
Michigan defines a junk car as one that is unsafe, abandoned, totaled, or sold for scrap. Many are non-running or heavily damaged. For more examples, check out our What Is a Junk Car? guide.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in Michigan
- Get Your Offer: Provide your vehicle’s year, make, model, and condition for a guaranteed 7-day offer.
- Schedule Free Pickup: Set a time for free towing at your convenience.
- Sign the Title: On the Michigan title, sign as the seller on the back and complete the buyer section. Be sure to include the date of sale and odometer reading if required.
- Get Paid on the Spot: You’ll receive payment when the vehicle is picked up.
- Remove the License Plate: Remove your plate before pickup. It can be transferred to another vehicle or turned in at a Secretary of State branch.
- Complete a Bill of Sale (optional): While not required, a bill of sale can be helpful to keep for your records.
- Cancel Insurance: Contact your insurance company to cancel your policy once the vehicle is picked up.
What You Need to Junk a Car in Michigan
The Michigan SOS requires proof of ownership and completion of the vehicle title before a junk car sale can occur. Michigan law also requires odometer disclosures for applicable vehicles.
- Title: You must have the Michigan title in your name. If lost, apply for a duplicate using Form TR-11L (Application for Michigan Vehicle Title).
- Photo ID: A Michigan driver’s license or state ID is needed to confirm identity.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles under 10 years old. This must be recorded on the title during transfer.
- Plate Removal: Remove the plate before pickup. It remains your property.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in Michigan?
Michigan law requires a valid title to junk a vehicle. If the title is missing, you must request a replacement using Form TR-11L. There must be no lien on the title unless a lien termination statement is included.
The VIN plate must be removed before the vehicle is dismantled or scrapped. The plate must be destroyed or sent to the Secretary of State along with the completed documents.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in Michigan?
No. The title is required to junk a vehicle in Michigan. If it is lost, apply for a duplicate through the Michigan SOS using Form TR-11L. Registration or a bill of sale is not accepted as proof of ownership.
Is Registration Required to Junk a Car in Michigan?
No. Current registration is not necessary to junk your car, as long as you hold the title.
Do I Need to Notify the Secretary of State?
Yes. You must report the sale or disposal and remove the license plates. Cancel your registration. If the car will be dismantled, remove the VIN plate and include it with the transfer paperwork.
Licensed dismantlers in Michigan are required to submit a TR-52 form and must track all junk vehicles they process through the state’s salvage system.
A customer in Grand Rapids recently junked their 2008 Chevy Malibu with us. It had major engine damage. They had the title ready, we picked it up the same day, and they walked away with $370 cash.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in Michigan
- Not signing the title properly: Incomplete fields or cross-outs can delay the sale.
- Leaving plates on the car: Always remove them before pickup.
- Not verifying the buyer is licensed: Make sure you're dealing with a legitimate junk car buyer or auto recycler.
- Skipping insurance cancellation: Don’t forget to end your policy once the vehicle is gone.
Helpful Resources
- Michigan Secretary of State (SOS): Forms, title services, and guidance: michigan.gov/sos
- Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE): Regulates automotive dismantling and recycling: michigan.gov/egle
- Michigan Auto Recyclers and Dismantlers Association: Find licensed recyclers in the state.
Junk a Car in Michigan
We provide junk car removal throughout Michigan, including Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, and beyond. Whether you’re in a city or a smaller town, Junk Car Medics can help you junk your car legally and for top dollar.
Find your city below or get your free quote today.