How to Scrap a Car in Toronto? Step-by-Step Guide

If your car is old, damaged beyond economical repair, or simply taking up space, scrapping it in Toronto is a practical option. Below is a clear, local-friendly walkthrough so you get paid fairly, follow the law, and recycle responsibly.

How to Scrap a Car?

1. Decide if scrapping is the best option

Before scrapping, consider higher-value alternatives:

• Sell privately (parts, project car) often gets more money.
• Donate to charity (possible tax receipt).
• Sell usable parts yourself.
  Scrapping is usually the right choice if you want the fastest, simplest route and your vehicle has little resale value.

2. Find and choose a reputable, licensed recycler

Look for provincially-licensed auto recyclers or certified yards that follow environmental rules. Ask about:

• Licence/permits and environmental practices.
• Whether they participate in national programs like Retire Your Ride or follow industry codes.
• Payment method (cash, e-transfer, cheque) and whether they provide a written receipt or Bill of Sale. Get multiple quotes to compare offers.

3. Prepare the car and remove personal items

Clear out all personal belongings, documents, garage remotes, and remove any parts you want to sell yourself (optional). Take photos of the car’s condition for your records.

4. Paperwork you’ll need

To legally scrap a car in Ontario (Toronto), most recyclers will ask for:

• The vehicle ownership permit (the green Vehicle Permit/ownership document). If lost, you can replace it via ServiceOntario.
• Photo ID (driver’s licence or other government ID).
• A Bill of Sale or Recycling Certificate from the recycler, once the transaction is complete, insist on written proof that you transferred ownership and received payment. Many yards will prepare this for you.
  

Note: A Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) is required for private sales; for scrap transactions, most yards rely on the green ownership permit and a Bill of Sale, but ask the recycler what they need.

5. Licence plates & registration

Returning licence plates to a ServiceOntario centre is recommended (and may be needed if you want a refund/credit for any unused portion). Having the plates cancelled clearly severs your legal responsibility for the vehicle. Visit ServiceOntario for plate/registration questions.

6. Towing & vehicle removal

Many Toronto recyclers offer free pickup/towing for scrap vehicles — confirm pickup windows and where the vehicle must be accessible. If the yard doesn’t tow for free, compare local tow quotes. Keep a record of the pickup (date/time) and the name of the person who collected the car.

7. Payment and final steps

• Get payment only after the ownership transfer paperwork is signed and you receive a Bill of Sale/Recycling Certificate. Never leave keys or documents without confirming the price and receipt. 
• Keep copies of all documents and the recycler’s contact info.
• If you returned plates and cancelled registration, keep the ServiceOntario confirmation for your records.

Final tips

• If your car still has usable, valuable parts (wheels, stereo, catalytic converter), selling those separately can increase the total return.
• Beware of offers that pressure you to sign before you confirm ID and paperwork legitimate yards will show credentials and provide written confirmation.
• If unsure about a recycler’s legitimacy, ask for references, check reviews (Yelp/Google), or choose a yard that participates in recognized industry programs.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, scrapping a car in Toronto can be simple, safe, and environmentally responsible if you take a few key steps. Follow these steps and turn an unwanted vehicle into fair cash and peace of mind.