Scrapping a Car in Nottingham: Local Pricing, Legal Steps & Tips (2025)
Whether your car has failed its MOT, become too expensive to run, or simply reached the end of its life, scrapping it in Nottingham is a straightforward way to recover value and free up space. But how do you get the best price—and stay on the right side of the law?
This guide covers Nottingham-specific pricing, legal obligations, common scrap vehicles, and expert tips to help you scrap your car safely and profitably.
Average Nottingham scrap car quote (2025): £180–£250
This depends on your car’s size, weight, and condition. Larger cars like SUVs or vans can command over £300, especially if complete and easily accessible.
Nottingham’s Environmental & Legal Considerations
While Nottingham doesn’t currently operate a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) like Birmingham or London, it does promote low-emission transport through local grants and infrastructure. That means older petrol and diesel vehicles are slowly being phased out—especially those not meeting Euro 6 standards.
Even though there’s no formal scrappage scheme in Nottingham as of mid-2025, the rise in EV adoption and sustainable transport incentives means more people are turning to legal vehicle disposal.
Legal Requirement: Only scrap your car via a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). You’ll receive a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) and must inform the DVLA. Failing to do so can lead to fines.
What Impacts Scrap Car Prices in Nottingham?
Several factors influence the value you’re offered:
- Vehicle Weight & Size – The heavier your car, the more metal it yields.
- Current Scrap Metal Prices – Prices for steel, copper, and aluminium shift regularly.
- Vehicle Condition & Completeness – Missing parts, especially batteries or catalytic converters, lower value.
- Collection Distance – Remote pickups may incur fees. Some Nottingham yards offer free local collection.
- Non-ferrous Components – Copper wiring, alloy wheels, and catalytic converters are key value boosters.
Tip: Never strip the car before scrapping unless you know the resale value of specific parts. Most yards offer higher payouts for complete vehicles.
Scrap Metal Prices in Nottingham (May 2025)
Typical per-kg prices in the East Midlands:
- Steel: £0.15–£0.20/kg
- Aluminium: £0.50–£0.60/kg
- Copper: £6.00–£6.80/kg
A standard hatchback weighs ~1,200kg, mostly in steel. If the catalytic converter is still installed, this can significantly increase your payout due to the precious metals it contains.
Prices fluctuate weekly based on global markets. If you can wait a week or two, you might catch a price spike.
Most Commonly Scrapped Cars in Nottingham
Local trends mirror much of the UK, with these models frequently appearing in scrapyards:
- Ford Focus & Fiesta
- Vauxhall Astra & Corsa
- Volkswagen Golf
- Peugeot 206/207
- Nissan Micra
These cars are often 10–15 years old, no longer fuel-efficient, and costlier to repair than replace.
How to Legally Scrap a Car in Nottingham
- Choose a Licensed ATF – Avoid illegal operators; they don’t issue Certificates of Destruction.
- Get a Quote – Use local or national comparison services.
- Receive a CoD – This proves your car has been dismantled and deregistered.
- Inform the DVLA – Complete Section 9 of the V5C or use the DVLA online service.
- Clear the Vehicle – Remove personal items and documents.
Tips to Get the Best Scrap Deal in Nottingham
- Call Multiple Yards: Quotes vary, especially depending on your location.
- Ensure Accessibility: Make sure the car can be safely collected.
- Provide Paperwork: Having your V5C and ID speeds things up.
- Avoid Delays: The older and less complete the car, the lower the quote.
Ready to scrap your car in Nottingham? Compare offers from trusted local ATFs and get the best deal for your vehicle today.