Scrap car prices in Ontario refer to the market value recyclers pay for end-of-life vehicles based on weight, current metal prices, and reusable components. As of March 2026, Ontario scrap car prices reflect the strongest demand in Canada: typical payouts range from $150–$800 for sedans, $300–$1,500 for SUVs, and $500–$2,500 for trucks based on current market conditions.
The Greater Toronto Area alone processes over 400,000 end-of-life vehicles annually, and competition between recyclers in the GTA, Hamilton, and Ottawa keeps payout rates among the highest in the country. Vehicles with intact high-value components — catalytic converters, running engines, and reusable transmissions — command the upper end of these ranges.
These are general market rates based on current Ontario scrap metal pricing. Your specific vehicle may be worth more or less depending on its make, model, and condition.
Most scrap cars in Ontario sell for between $150 and $2,500 depending on vehicle class, condition, and whether the catalytic converter and major components are intact. These ranges reflect current market conditions across Ontario's major recycling regions.
| Vehicle Class | Weight Range | Base Scrap Value (ON) | With Intact Catalytic Converter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact Sedan Civic, Corolla, Mazda3 | 1,200–1,400 kg | $150–$450 | $300–$650 |
| Mid-Size Sedan Camry, Accord, Fusion | 1,400–1,600 kg | $200–$550 | $400–$800 |
| SUV / Crossover RAV4, CR-V, Escape | 1,600–2,000 kg | $300–$900 | $500–$1,500 |
| Full-Size Truck F-150, Silverado, RAM Highest value | 2,000–2,700 kg | $500–$1,500 | $800–$2,500 |
| Minivan Caravan, Sienna, Odyssey | 1,800–2,200 kg | $350–$800 | $550–$1,200 |
The "Base Scrap Value" column reflects vehicles stripped of their catalytic converter or with a damaged/missing converter. The "With Intact Catalytic Converter" column reflects complete vehicles — these ranges align with the national estimates on our scrap car value calculator. Vehicles with running engines and reusable transmissions can exceed the upper ranges.
Multiple factors determine where your vehicle falls — weight, metal prices, converter content, and regional competition. For a detailed breakdown, see our guide to factors that affect scrap car value.
Scrap car value in Ontario is calculated using vehicle weight, current metal prices, reusable parts value, and catalytic converter content — minus towing and processing costs.
Formula:
(Vehicle Weight × Current Steel Price) + Reusable Parts Value + Catalytic Converter Value − Towing & Processing Costs = Your Scrap Car Payout
Ontario steel prices currently average $0.09–$0.12 per pound (2026), which means a 1,500 kg sedan contains roughly $300–$400 in base metal value before any parts or catalytic converter bonuses.
Catalytic converters are the single largest variable — precious metals (platinum, palladium, rhodium) can add $100–$500 depending on make and model. SUVs and trucks with larger converters fall at the higher end.
GTA-area facilities face higher competition and tend to offer stronger prices than rural Northern Ontario, where transportation costs reduce net payout.
Scrap car prices are highest in the GTA and lowest in Northern Ontario due to recycler competition density and transportation costs:
$300–$2,500
Highest competition. Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan — Canada's largest recycling corridor.
$250–$2,000
Dense recycler network from steel heritage. Strong truck demand.
$200–$1,800
Smaller recycler market. Quebec border proximity affects pricing.
$150–$1,200
Higher transport costs reduce net payout in remote areas.
Typical payouts for common vehicles in Ontario based on Mar 2026 conditions. Actual offers depend on condition, mileage, and completeness.
Estimated value: $350–$600
Compact sedan, 1,300 kg. High parts demand in GTA. Converter adds $150–$200. Within sedan range ($150–$800).
Estimated value: $1,000–$1,800
Full-size truck, 2,200 kg. Heavy frame + high converter value ($250–$400). Within truck range ($500–$2,500).
Estimated value: $600–$1,100
Mid-size SUV, 1,650 kg. Strong parts market. Ottawa rates slightly below GTA. Within SUV range ($300–$1,500).
Estimated value: $450–$800
Mid-size sedan, 1,500 kg. Most recycled vehicle in Ontario. Consistent GTA demand. Within sedan range ($150–$800).
Before scrapping a car in Ontario, you are required to cancel your vehicle registration and return your licence plates to ServiceOntario. Ontario's Highway Traffic Act holds the registered owner liable until plates are formally surrendered. Contact your insurance provider to cancel coverage and request any unused premium refund.
ServiceOntario Checklist Before Scrapping:
— Return licence plates to any ServiceOntario location
— Cancel vehicle registration
— Notify your insurance provider
— Keep the vehicle permit (ownership) as proof of transfer
— Request a signed bill of sale from the buyer/recycler
Ontario does not currently operate a formal scrap vehicle incentive program like BC's Scrap-It Program. Some municipalities offer periodic disposal amnesty programs — check your local municipality's website.
For a complete walkthrough, read our guide on how to scrap a car in Ontario
Ontario scrap car prices change monthly based on four drivers: global steel/metal commodity prices, catalytic converter precious metal markets (platinum, palladium, rhodium), regional recycler competition, and seasonal processing volumes.
Prices peak in spring and early fall with construction-driven steel demand. The GTA market resists seasonal dips better than Northern Ontario due to higher recycler density and year-round demand.
Ontario scrap metal prices are updated weekly based on global commodity markets — the rates on this page reflect Mar 2026 conditions.
Ontario typically offers higher scrap car prices than most provinces. For comparison, see current scrap car prices in British Columbia.
Scrap car payouts in Ontario range from $150 to $2,500 depending on vehicle type, weight, condition, and current metal prices. Sedans typically receive $150–$800, SUVs $300–$1,500, and trucks $500–$2,500. Vehicles with intact catalytic converters and running engines command the higher end of these ranges.
Scrap car value per ton in Ontario averages $180–$280 for standard steel-body vehicles as of March 2026. A typical 1.5-ton sedan yields approximately $270–$420 in base metal value before converter and parts bonuses.
The best scrap car prices in Ontario are typically found in the Greater Toronto Area. For a free instant quote based on your vehicle's make, model, year, and condition, use our scrap car value calculator.
Yes — Ontario requires you to return licence plates to ServiceOntario before or at the time of scrapping. The registered owner remains legally responsible until plates are surrendered.
Yes — Cash For Cars provides free vehicle pickup across Ontario including Toronto, Hamilton, Ottawa, and surrounding regions. Most vehicles are picked up within 24–48 hours and paid on the spot. Contact us or use the calculator above.
Find out exactly what your car, truck, or SUV is worth in Ontario — based on your specific vehicle and current market rates. Free same-day pickup across all Ontario regions.
Most vehicles are picked up within 24–48 hours and paid on the spot.
