Selling a scrap car in Kuwait used to be a simple trade of metal for cash at a local yard. However, as of early 2026, the market has shifted. New regulations from the Ministry of Commerce now prohibit cash transactions for vehicle sales, including the scrap market. If you want to get the best scrap car price, you need to understand how the market values your vehicle and which junk car buyers are following the new digital payment rules.
We have seen many car owners lose money by rushing into a deal without checking current metal rates. A vehicle that no longer runs still holds significant value in its steel, aluminium, and specialised parts like catalytic converters. Our guide breaks down the steps to ensure you walk away with the most money possible while staying compliant with Kuwaiti law.
The Current Market for Scrap Cars in Kuwait
The value of a scrap car is primarily tied to the global price of steel and aluminium. In 2026, we are seeing a steady demand for recycled metals because manufacturing costs for new materials remain high. In Kuwait, the scrap industry is concentrated in areas like Shuwaikh Industrial and Amghara.
Most junk car buyers calculate their offers based on the curb weight of your vehicle. A standard sedan might weigh between 1.2 and 1.5 tons, while a large SUV can exceed 2 tons. When you call for a quote, knowing youvehicle’sle weight is the first step to ensuring a fair deal.
Why Scrap Prices Fluctuate
Prices for car scrap Kuwait services change weekly. If global construction projects slow down, the demand for recycled steel drops. Conversely, if there is a shortage of automotive chips or new parts, your junk car becomes more valuable to dismantlers who want to salvage working alternators, starters, and body panels.
Factors That Determine Your Scrap Car Price
Many people assume a “dead” car is just a pile of rust. That is a mistake. Your scrap car price is influenced by several specific components that you should mention when negotiating with buyers.
Total Vehicle Weight
This is the “floor” of your price. Junk car buyers pay a base rate per ton. Even if the car is crushed or completely stripped of parts, the metal itself has a guaranteed value.
High-Value Components
Before you call a scrap yard, check if these parts are still on the car:
- Catalytic Converters: These contain precious metals like platinum and rhodium. They are often the most expensive single part of a scrap vehicle.
- Aluminium Rims: If your car has alloy wheels instead of steel ones, the price should go up.
- Lead-Acid Battery: These are highly recyclable and have a standalone value of several Dinars.
Engine and Transmission Condition
Even if the car is not roadworthy, a “running” engine can be exported or sold to a local mechanic. Mentioning that the transmission still shifts or the engine turns over can add a premium to your offer.
Finding Reliable Junk Car Buyers in Kuwait
Finding a buyer is easy; finding a reputable one is harder. With the recent 2026 “Cash Ban” for vehicle sales, any buyer offering you a large stack of cash is likely operating outside the law. This puts you at risk during the registration cancellation process.
We recommend looking for buyers who provide:
- Electronic Payment: Payments must now be made via bank transfer or K-Net to be legal in Kuwait.
- Free Towing: Do not pay for a tow truck. Legitimate junk car buyers will include collection in their offer.
- Proper Documentation: The buyer must help you navigate the Ministry of Interior (MOI) requirements to cancel the vehicle’s traffic file.
You might also consider looking at cars for sale in Kuwait if your vehicle still has some life left in it, as selling to a private party usually yields more than a scrap yard.
Step-by-Step Guide to Scrapping Your Car
The process for a scrap car in Kuwait involves both physical removal and legal deregistration. Following these steps prevents future fines or legal headaches.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
You need your Civil ID and the original car registration (Mulkiya). If the registration has expired, you may need to pay outstanding fines before the MOI allows you to scrap the vehicle.
Step 2: Clear Out Personal Items
Check the glove box, under the seats, and the trunk. We often see people leave behind expensive sunglasses or important documents. Also, remember to remove your license plates; you will need to return these to the Traffic Department.
Step 3: Get Multiple Quotes
Never accept the first offer. Call at least three different car scrap Kuwait companies. Tell them the make, model, year, and whether the car is “complete” (meaning it has the engine and catalytic converter).
Step 4: Visit the Traffic Department
You must visit the General Traffic Department to cancel the vehicle license. You will fill out a “Scrap Vehicle” form and pay a small fee. Once completed, you receive a certificate that proves the car is no longer your legal responsibility.
Legal Requirements and the 2026 Cash Ban
Kuwait has tightened the rules on how we trade vehicles. The Minister of Commerce and Industry recently issued a decree banning cash for scrap car sales to prevent money laundering and ensure transparency.
If you are selling a scrap car, ensure the buyer uses a digital payment method. This creates a paper trail that protects you if the car is later used for parts in an unauthorised way. Additionally, the Kuwait Municipality is cracking down on abandoned vehicles in residential areas. If your scrap car is sitting on a public street, you could face heavy fines before you even get a chance to sell it.
Maximising Your Profit: Pro Tips
If you want the absolute best scrap car price, a little extra effort goes a long way.
- Don’t Drain the Fluids: While it seems helpful, many yards prefer to drain fluids themselves to ensure environmental compliance. However, having a full tank of gas is a waste—use a siphon pump to save that fuel for your new car.
- Keep the Tires Inflated: A car that rolls is easier for the tow truck driver to load. Easier labour for them can sometimes mean a slightly better price for you.
- Check the Spare: If you have a high-quality spare tyre or a jack kit, sell those separately on a classifieds site. A scrap yard won’t pay extra for a tool kit, but a private buyer will.
If you are planning to upgrade after scrapping your old ride, you should look into professional services like Al Falah Car Wash to keep your next vehicle in top condition from day one.
Comparison of Scrap Methods in Kuwait
| Method | Effort Level | Price Potential | Speed |
| Direct to Scrap Yard | Low | Moderate | Same Day |
| Parts Dismantling | High | Very High | Weeks/Months |
| Online Auction | Moderate | Variable | 3-5 Days |
| Municipality Scrapping | Low | Zero (Avoid this) | Fast (Forced) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
We see sellers make the same three mistakes repeatedly. First, they forget to cancel their insurance. Once the car is scrapped, call your provider to stop the policy and potentially get a pro-rated refund.
Second, many people leave the license plates on the car. In Kuwait, those plates are linked to your file. If the scrap yard owner “recycles” those plates on another vehicle, you could be held liable for traffic violations you didn’t commit.
Finally, don’t ignore the importance of a “Complete” car. If you strip the car of its alternator, battery, and radio, the junk car buyers will significantly drop their price. It is often better to sell the car whole than to try to sell individual parts unless you are a skilled mechanic with a lot of free time.
Conclusion
Getting the best price for your scrap car in Kuwait requires a mix of market knowledge and legal compliance. By understanding that your scrap car price is more than just a metal weight, you can negotiate better deals with junk car buyers. Always remember to prioritise digital payments to stay within the 2026 regulations and ensure your traffic file is cleared at the MOI.
Scrapping a car doesn’t have to be a headache. If you do your research, compare your quotes, and handle your paperwork properly, you can turn that old eyesore into a helpful boost for your bank account.
FAQs
What is the average scrap car price in Kuwait?
Prices vary based on the weight of the vehicle and the current metal market. Generally, a complete sedan can fetch anywhere from 50 KWD to 150 KWD, while larger vehicles or those with high-demand parts can go higher.
Can I sell a scrap car without a title?
In Kuwait, you must have the registration (Mulkiya) or a valid document from the Traffic Department. Selling a car you don’t legally own is a serious offence. If you lost the paperwork, you must visit the MOI to get a replacement or a “To Whom It May Concern” certificate.
Do junk car buyers provide free towing?
Most reputable buyers in Kuwait will offer free towing as part of the deal. If a buyer asks you to pay for the tow, they are likely giving you a sub-par offer. Always clarify that the quoted price includes the cost of collection.
Is it legal to receive cash for my scrap car in 2026?
No. Under the latest Ministry of Commerce regulations, cash transactions for vehicles—including scrap and junk cars—are prohibited. You should receive payment via bank transfer or an authorised electronic payment gateway to ensure the sale is legal.
What parts of a scrap car are most valuable?
The catalytic converter is usually the most valuable part due to the precious metals inside. Other high-value items include the engine, transmission, aluminium wheels, and the car battery.
