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Sell your damaged car as-is today.

Facing a mechanical repair estimate that costs more than the car is worth? Don’t waste thousands on an old vehicle. JunkStar buys damaged cars as-is, with zero repairs required, free pickup, and payment before the tow truck leaves.

No repairs needed Paid by check at pickup Free towing included

No obligation Free towing(323) 503-4171

Mechanical issues

We buy cars with major mechanical failure.

  1. Blown or seized engine

    Knocking rods, cracked blocks, overheating damage, blown head gaskets, or zero compression.

  2. Transmission failure

    Slipping gears, torque converter failure, no reverse, or completely locked transmissions.

  3. Catalytic converter theft

    Stolen converters, sawed exhaust pipes, and damaged oxygen sensor wiring.

  4. Electrical & ECU failure

    Fried wiring harnesses, immobilizer failure, dead BCM modules, or parasitic drains.

  5. Suspension & steering failure

    Broken control arms, snapped tie rods, failed power steering racks, or air suspension leaks.

  6. Failed state emissions/inspection

    Vehicles that cannot legally pass state safety or OBD-II emissions tests.

Repair or sell

Why fixing an older damaged car rarely makes financial sense.

A replacement engine or transmission typically costs between $3,500 and $7,000 with labor. On a car with a market value of $4,000, investing that money yields zero return.

Private buyers will rarely buy a vehicle they cannot test drive without offering pennies. JunkStar assesses your vehicle for the value of its working secondary parts and steel, handing you a guaranteed check at pickup with zero risk or repair costs.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

How much is a car with a blown engine worth?
Payouts depend on the vehicle's year, make, model, curb weight, and catalytic converter presence. Even with a dead engine, valuable body panels, transmissions, and scrap metal mean you receive a solid buyout paid by check at pickup.
Do I have to clean or repair the car before selling?
No. You don't need to wash it, fix anything, or even add air to the tires. Just clear out your personal belongings, toll passes, and paperwork.
Can I sell a car that failed emissions inspection?
Yes. Many cars we buy cannot pass emissions or state inspection. We purchase them for parts and dismantling.