How to Junk a Car in Washington
Junking a car in Washington State is easy if you follow the state’s requirements. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of Washington residents legally junk their vehicles for cash. We follow all Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) rules to make the process simple and compliant. Get an instant offer now or keep reading to learn everything you need to know.
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What Counts as a Junk Car in Washington?
A junk car in Washington is any vehicle that is non-functional, abandoned, or marked for dismantling. This includes cars sold to licensed wreckers or recyclers. For a general explanation, visit our What Is a Junk Car? guide.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in Washington State
- Get Your Offer: Submit your car’s year, make, model, and condition to receive a firm 7-day offer.
- Schedule Free Pickup: We schedule towing at your convenience with a licensed carrier.
- Sign the Title: Sign the Washington Certificate of Title in the seller section. Include the buyer’s information and odometer reading (if applicable).
- Get Paid on the Spot: Payment is issued immediately at pickup. Towing is always free.
- File a Report of Sale: Complete a Report of Sale with the Washington DOL either online or using Form TD-420-062.
- Cancel Insurance: Notify your insurer to cancel your policy after the sale is complete.
What You Need to Junk a Car in Washington State
The Washington State DOL requires specific documentation to transfer vehicle ownership legally. The junking process also includes steps to release liability and confirm ownership.
- Vehicle Title: Required to junk a car. If the title is lost, request a replacement using Form TD-420-040.
- Valid ID: A Washington driver’s license or state-issued ID to confirm identity.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles under 10 years old. Complete this on the title or a separate federal disclosure form.
- Report of Sale: File with the DOL using Form TD-420-062 or complete online to avoid future liability.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in Washington?
Washington law requires a title in your name to junk a car. If you lost it, request a replacement through the Washington DOL using Form TD-420-040. You must remove any liens before proceeding.
Before crushing or dismantling the vehicle, the VIN plate must be removed. You must return it to the Department of Licensing or destroy it. Submit all required paperwork during the transfer.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in Washington?
No. A valid title in the seller’s name is required. If lost, you must request a duplicate through the Washington DOL before the vehicle can be junked.
Is Registration Required to Junk a Car in Washington?
No. As long as the title is in your name, you do not need current registration to junk a vehicle.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. You must file a Report of Sale with the Washington DOL. You must also remove your plates and cancel the vehicle registration. If the vehicle will be destroyed, remove the VIN plate and return it to the DOL with your ownership documents.
Licensed dismantlers in Washington are required to report every junk vehicle they receive and maintain records for Department of Licensing audits.
A customer in Tacoma recently sold us their 2008 Dodge Caravan that had been sitting idle for two years. They completed the Report of Sale online and we paid them $510 cash the same day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in Washington
- Not filing the Report of Sale: This can leave you legally responsible for the vehicle after it's sold.
- Leaving the odometer section blank: Vehicles under 10 years old require disclosure under federal law.
- Selling to an unlicensed buyer: Only use licensed auto buyers or dismantlers in Washington.
- Not removing license plates (if applicable): Some buyers may request you remove the plates prior to pickup.
Helpful Resources
- Washington DOL: Title and registration forms including TD-420-040 and TD-420-062: dol.wa.gov
- Washington Department of Ecology: Oversees vehicle recycling and dismantler compliance: ecology.wa.gov
- Washington State Auto Dismantlers Association: Find licensed auto dismantlers statewide.
Junk a Car in Washington State
We provide junk car removal throughout Washington including Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Everett, and more. Whether you're in a major metro or rural area, Junk Car Medics makes it easy to get rid of your vehicle for cash.
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