How to Move a Car That Doesn’t Run

Moving a car that has stopped working can feel tricky, but with a bit of planning you can get it done safely. Whether the battery is flat, the engine has seized or there are serious mechanical issues, you have several methods to choose from. This guide explains simple ways to shift your vehicle, from using basic tools to calling in professionals.

Assessing Your Non-Running Vehicle

First, check why your car won’t start. If the problem is a dead battery or a broken starter motor, you might just need a jump-start. However, if you have deeper troubles, such as seized engine parts, you may decide it’s time to sell my car with mechanical problems. That way you free up space and avoid costly repairs. Before you attempt to push or tow it, ensure the handbrake is off, the wheels are straight and the steering is unlocked.

Simple Methods to Move Your Car

If you only need to shift the vehicle a short distance, a group of strong friends can push it onto a flatbed trailer or clear patch of road. Use gloves and flat-soled shoes to avoid injury. For slightly longer distances, you can attach a sturdy tow rope or chain to a working vehicle. Make sure the rope is rated for your car’s weight and tie it to the solid frame points, not the bumper. If you worry about damage, consider renting a small car dolly that lifts the front wheels off the ground. This option is ideal when the rear wheels still roll smoothly.

In some neighbourhoods, you can find local services that sell your damaged car and will tow it away for you. They handle both the moving and the paperwork, saving you time and effort.

Professional Towing Options

For longer trips or busy roads, it’s safer to hire a tow truck. A flatbed tow truck keeps all four wheels off the ground, which prevents transmission damage. Some operators specialise in where can i sell my car with mechanical problems and will offer cash once they collect your vehicle. If you’d rather not deal with scrap yards yourself, look out for companies that advertise “we buy damaged cars.” They often include free towing in their service.

If you prefer a quick cash sale, you can sell my damaged car and arrange for it to be collected the same day. This frees you from storage fees and gives you immediate payment. In cities like Pretoria or Durban, firms regularly sell a damaged car on behalf of owners, handling both the move and the sale contract.

Using a Car Dolly or Trailer

Renting a car dolly or small trailer from a DIY rental shop can be a cost-effective solution. Secure your vehicle with tiedown straps rated for automotive use, and place wheel chocks to stop any roll. If you’re unsure how to load the car safely, ask the rental staff to show you proper attachment points. Once mounted, drive carefully at low speed. If you later decide this setup isn’t for you, services that sell my damaged car for cash will often buy it and handle all subsequent transport.

Preparing for Sale After Moving

Once you have your car safely at a yard or scrap facility, consider your options for disposing of it. Many drivers choose to sell their damaged car  rather than leave it gathering dust. If you want to find out who buys non running cars near me, a quick online search will list local buyers. Always check that they are licensed and offer fair rates.

For those in the Johannesburg area, it’s easy to sell your damaged car in Johannesburg to a specialist who collects vehicles city-wide. They will issue a receipt and arrange all paperwork so you’re not left waiting at licensing offices.

Deciding Between Scrap and Sale

If your vehicle is beyond repair, you may choose to scrap my car for parts or metal. Scrap yards pay by weight, so heavy vehicles fetch more. However, you might earn more by selling damaged cars for cash to a dealer who recovers usable parts and resells them. When selling damaged cars, some buyers factor in towing costs and offer a single lump sum.

Before committing, ask “what is how much is a non running car worth?” Dealers will calculate value based on age, model, condition and scrap metal rates. This ensures you understand the market before signing any agreement.

Tips for a Smooth Process

When selling your damaged car, keep your South African ID and vehicle registration papers handy. Many buyers will only collect once they have confirmed ownership. If you choose to sell non running cars regularly, building a relationship with a reputable buyer saves time. A good service will return your call promptly and arrange towing within 24 hours.

Whether you end up deciding to repair and move the vehicle yourself or selling your damaged car for cash to a professional, the key is planning. Inspect your options, compare offers and choose the method that feels right. With the right approach, even a non-running car can be shifted safely and turned into cash without too much fuss.