Published: February 7, 2025
Last Updated: August 11, 2025
The bottom line: The Clunker Junker is a licensed, bonded, and insured company with over a decade of experience, specializing in buying damaged, junk, and non-running cars—even those with engine failure.
They offer a fast and hassle-free process, allowing you to get cash in hand within 48 hours of accepting their offer.
What We Like
- Instant online quotes available within 90 seconds
- Free towing service included with every purchase
- Guaranteed payment by cash or check at pickup
- Competitive pricing often exceeding local junkyards’ offers
- Same-day pickup available in many locations
What You Should Know
- Pickup scheduling handled by third-party carriers with varying reliability
- Price adjustments possible if vehicle condition differs from description
- Four to eight-hour pickup windows can be inconvenient
How Clunker Junker Works?
1. Get an Instant Quote
Start by entering your vehicle’s basic information on their website. Within 90 seconds, you’ll receive a guaranteed offer based on your car’s make, model, year, and condition.
The quote is valid until accepted and all required information is provided.
Click to see a step-by-step quote process with screenshots
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2. Accept the Offer
Once you accept the offer, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership documentation. The main requirement is a valid title in your name. Some states may require additional paperwork like registration or notarized documents.
The company clearly communicates any state-specific requirements.
Tip: After receiving an offer, compare it with other car-buying sites to see who offers the most for your vehicle in your area. Sell Car Advisor recommends: Peddle, Wheelzy, CarBrain, and CashForCars.
3. Schedule Pickup
After accepting the offer and providing documentation, The Clunker Junker connects you with a local carrier or buyer. Most vehicles are picked up within 1-3 business days, though same-day pickup is sometimes available.
The carrier will contact you directly to arrange a convenient pickup time.
Note: We’ve noticed their pickup network is generally reliable, though availability can vary by location. Urban sellers typically get faster service than those in rural areas.
4. Get Paid
At pickup, the driver will verify the vehicle’s condition and documentation. Payment is issued immediately by cash or check upon verification.
The company guarantees all payments, and if any issues arise with a buyer’s payment, The Clunker Junker will cover it directly.
Warning: Final offer can change if your vehicle’s condition doesn’t match what you reported online.
How Much Can You Get?
2014 Nissan Sentra with 96k milage and salvage title: $625
2003 Buick Regal LS with 214k mileage and clean title: $380
2008 Dodge Dakota with 167k mileage with salvage title: $380
Most recent Clunker Junker offers:
| Make & Model | Year | Mileage | Condition | Title Status | Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infiniti G37 Journey | 2008 | 150’000+ | Doesn’t start | Clean Title | $895 |
| Ford Mustang Coupe Base | 2000 | 150’000+ | Runs & Drives | Clean Title | $335 |
| Toyota Camry LE | 2005 | 150’000+ | Engine Starts | Clean Title | $610 |
| Ford Taurus Sedan SES (Gas) | 2002 | 150’000+ | Doesn’t start | Clean Title | $320 |
| Mercedes Benz E Class Sedan | 1999 | 150’000+ | Doesn’t start | Clean Title | $320 |
| Chevrolet Malibu LS | 2012 | 150’000+ | Runs & Drives | Clean Title | $430 |
| Ford Crown Victoria LX (flex fuel) | 2006 | 150’000+ | Runs & Drives | Clean Title | $325 |
What Other Sellers Say?
| Review Website | The Clunker Junker Rating |
|---|---|
| Better Business Bureau | 4.25 out of 5 stars |
| Google Reviews | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
| Reddit Reviews | Overall Positive |
Google Reviews:
Reddit Reviews:
Strengths
Customers consistently praise the company’s communication and transparency throughout the process. Many reviewers highlight receiving higher offers compared to local junkyards and competing services.
Areas for Improvement
Some customers report challenges with third-party towing companies missing scheduled pickup times. There are occasional complaints about last-minute price adjustments when vehicles don’t match their described condition.
Tips:
To avoid disappointment with Clunker Junker, we recommend the following based on sellers reviews.
- Complete the sales paperwork with your local DMV to avoid any future problems with the sold car.
- Describe the vehicle’s condition accurately to avoid price drops.
- Allocate at least few hours for the car’s pickup. A half-hour lunch break may not be enough, as the company schedules four-hour windows, and the driver may be late due to circumstances such as traffic.
- If your catalytic converter is aftermarket, expect a lower offer.
Who Should Use The Clunker Junker?
The Clunker Junker is particularly valuable for owners of damaged, non-running, or older vehicles that might be difficult to sell privately.
Their service is ideal for those who prioritize convenience and quick payment over maximizing value through private sale.
The free towing service makes it especially attractive for owners of non-running vehicles or those without means to transport their car.
Market Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike traditional junkyards or local buyers, The Clunker Junker combines nationwide reach with a modern, tech-enabled process.
Their instant quote system and guaranteed payment backing set them apart from smaller competitors, while their personalized customer service distinguishes them from larger corporate buyers.
Private Sale
Selling privately typically yields higher returns, especially for vehicles in good condition. However, it requires significant time investment in advertising, showing the vehicle, and handling paperwork. Private sales also carry risks of payment issues and potential liability concerns.
Learn More:
If you decide to sell car privately, here are the articles which will help you:
- How to sell car privately?
- Free car valuation tools
- What is the best platform to sell car privately?
Other Car Buying Services
We compared the valuation of the exact vehicle with different car-buying companies.
| Make & Model | Year | Date Listed | Mileage | Condition | Title Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infiniti G37 Journey | 2008 | 45693 | 150’000+ | Doesn’t start | Clean Title |
| Company | Offers Received |
|---|---|
| Clunker Junker | $895 |
| Peddle | $865 |
Get quotes from the companies below to see which offers the most for your car:
Best for Older Cars
Instant offer in 2 minutes
Free pickup as soon as today
Get paid on the spot
Best for Junk Cars
Sell your car in 30 minutes
Easy-to-use
Buys non-running cars
Best for Damaged Cars
Copart company
Nationwide service
Pays Cash
Alternatives: Sites Like Clunker Junker
FAQ
What is The Clunker Junker?
The Clunker Junker is a nationwide junk car buying service operating since 2009, with over 500,000 vehicles purchased and $300 million paid out. They’re licensed, bonded, and insured.
How do I get an offer from The Clunker Junker?
Visit their website, enter your vehicle’s year, make, model, and condition. You’ll receive an instant offer within 90 seconds.
Does The Clunker Junker pay what they offer?
Yes, they guarantee their offers as long as the vehicle condition matches what was described. The company backs all payments if there are any issues with local buyers.
How quickly can The Clunker Junker pick up my car?
Most pickups happen within 1-3 business days, with some same-day pickups available depending on location.
Who actually picks up my car for The Clunker Junker?
They work with a network of local towing companies and buyers across all 50 states who handle the physical pickup.
Does The Clunker Junker require a title?
Yes, in most cases. Some states allow sales of older vehicles without titles if you have alternative documentation.
What’s the average offer from The Clunker Junker?
Their current average offer is $611, with pickup trucks averaging $786, SUVs $706, and small cars $553.
How does The Clunker Junker pay?
Payment is made at pickup by either cash or business check, guaranteed by The Clunker Junker.
Is The Clunker Junker legitimate?
Yes, they’re a licensed auto dealer operating since 2009 with an A+ BBB rating and thousands of positive reviews.
Will The Clunker Junker buy my non-running car?
Yes, they buy vehicles in any condition and provide free towing.
What happens if The Clunker Junker’s local buyer doesn’t show up?
Contact The Clunker Junker directly, and they’ll either resolve the issue with the current buyer or assign a new one.
Does The Clunker Junker charge for towing?
No, towing is always free with every purchase.
What documentation does The Clunker Junker need?
At a minimum, a valid title and photo ID. State-specific requirements may apply.
Can I sell multiple cars to The Clunker Junker?
Yes, they buy multiple vehicles from the same seller.
How long are The Clunker Junker’s offers valid?
Offers are valid until accepted and all required information is provided, though market conditions can affect pricing.
What areas does The Clunker Junker serve?
They operate in all 50 states through their network of local buyers.
What if I’m not satisfied with The Clunker Junker’s service?
They have a customer service team that handles any issues and backs all transactions with a payment guarantee.
Does The Clunker Junker buy newer cars?
Yes, they purchase vehicles of any age, often paying more for newer vehicles that can be resold at auction.
What should I do before The Clunker Junker picks up my car?
Remove personal belongings, license plates, and have your title ready to sign over.
How does The Clunker Junker compare to local junkyards?
The Clunker Junker typically offers higher prices than local junkyards and provides free towing with guaranteed payment.
