How to Junk a Car in South Carolina
Junking a car in South Carolina is simple when you know what the state requires. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of South Carolinians junk their vehicles legally and get paid cash. We ensure the process follows SC DMV regulations from start to finish. 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 South Carolina?
South Carolina defines a junk vehicle as one that is non-operational, unsafe, or sold for parts. Vehicles totaled by insurance companies also fall into this category. See our What Is a Junk Car? guide for more info.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in South Carolina
- Get Your Offer: Provide your vehicle's make, model, year, and condition to receive a guaranteed 7-day offer.
- Schedule Free Pickup: Arrange a convenient time for a licensed tow carrier to remove your vehicle at no cost.
- Sign the Title: Complete the back of your South Carolina Certificate of Title. Sign as the seller and include the buyer's name, sale date, and odometer reading if required.
- Get Paid on the Spot: We hand over payment and tow away the car for free.
- Remove Plates and Notify the DMV: Remove your license plates and submit a Notice of Vehicle Sold (Form 416) to the South Carolina DMV.
- Cancel Insurance: Notify your insurance provider after the sale to stop ongoing coverage.
What You Need to Junk a Car in South Carolina
The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) requires proper documentation and title transfer to legally junk your vehicle. Below is what you’ll need:
- Vehicle Title: The title must be in your name and free of liens. If lost, request a duplicate using Form 400.
- Valid Photo ID: A South Carolina driver’s license or state-issued ID to confirm your identity.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles under 20 years old, either on the title or using a separate statement.
- Form 416: Submit the Notice of Vehicle Sold to the SCDMV to release yourself from liability.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in South Carolina?
To junk a car in South Carolina, you must hold a valid title in your name. If the title is lost, request a replacement using Form 400 from the SCDMV. Any lien on the title must be cleared before transfer.
Before disposal, remove the VIN plate. You must destroy the plate or send it to the DMV with ownership records. Submit all documents to finalize the junking process.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in South Carolina?
No. You need the title in your name to junk a car in South Carolina. If lost, apply for a duplicate using Form 400 from the SCDMV. Bill of sale or registration alone will not work.
Is Registration Required to Junk a Car in South Carolina?
No. Your vehicle does not need to be actively registered, but the title must be valid and in your name.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. You must notify the SCDMV of the sale or disposal and remove your license plates. If the vehicle is dismantled, remove the VIN plate and include it with your title and forms. Cancel your registration after the transfer.
Licensed dismantlers in South Carolina must file an acquisition report and maintain logs for all junked vehicles.
A seller in Columbia had a 1998 Toyota Camry that wouldn’t start. She had the title ready, and we picked it up within hours, paid her $350 in cash, and walked her through submitting the vehicle sold form.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in South Carolina
- Not submitting Form 416: Failing to notify the SCDMV can result in unwanted liability.
- Missing title information: Be sure to complete all required fields to ensure a valid transfer.
- Leaving plates on the vehicle: Always remove them before the car is towed.
- Selling to unlicensed buyers: Only junk your car through a licensed dismantler or buyer like Junk Car Medics.
Helpful Resources
- South Carolina DMV (SCDMV): Access title forms, Form 400 (duplicate title), and Form 416 (vehicle sold): scdmvonline.com
- South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC): Oversees environmental regulations for vehicle recycling: scdhec.gov
- South Carolina Recyclers Association: Connect with licensed vehicle recyclers across the state.
Junk a Car in South Carolina
Junk Car Medics provides trusted junk car removal across South Carolina, including Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, Spartanburg, and beyond. Whether you're in a city or a small town, we’ll help you junk your vehicle fast and legally.
Find your location below or get your free offer today.