How To Junk a Car in Montana: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

If you’ve got an old, damaged, or unwanted vehicle sitting in your yard, you might be wondering how to junk a car in Montana and make some extra cash while freeing up space. The good news is that Montana has a straightforward process for junking cars, whether they’re running or not. However, knowing the right steps can save you time, avoid legal trouble, and even earn you more money for your old ride.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from preparing your paperwork and finding a reliable buyer to understanding Montana’s junk car laws and maximizing your car’s value.

1. Understanding What It Means to Junk a Car in Montana

Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand what “junking” a car really means. When you junk a car, you’re essentially selling or giving it to a licensed salvage yard or junk car buyer that will dismantle it for parts, scrap metal, or recycling.

In Montana, junking a car involves more than just handing over the keys — you must follow the state’s legal procedures, especially when it comes to the title, license plates, and ownership verification. Doing it correctly ensures you’re not held liable for the vehicle once it’s scrapped.

2. Gather the Required Documents

Before you can legally junk your car in Montana, you’ll need to make sure you have the proper documentation ready. The most crucial document is the car title. It proves that you are the rightful owner and have the authority to sell or junk the vehicle.

Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Vehicle Title: Must be signed by the owner. If the title is lost, you can request a replacement from the Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).

• Photo ID: A valid driver’s license or state-issued identification card.

• License Plates: In Montana, license plates stay with the owner, not the car. Be sure to remove them before junking the vehicle.

• Lien Release (if applicable): If the car once had a loan, ensure the lien is released before junking it.

Having these documents in order makes the junking process smooth and quick.

3. Determine Your Car’s Value

Even if your vehicle no longer runs, it might still have some value. Parts like the catalytic converter, tires, engine, and transmission can fetch good money from scrap yards or used part buyers.

Here’s how to estimate your junk car’s worth:

• Check the current scrap metal rates — these fluctuate based on market demand.

• Consider the vehicle’s make, model, and year. Some models are worth more due to part demand.

• Evaluate condition and completeness. A car with missing components will be worth less.

You can also get quotes from multiple junk car buyers to ensure you get the best deal. Be wary of buyers offering extremely low prices or hidden towing fees.

4. Find a Licensed Junk Car Buyer or Salvage Yard

Montana has several licensed auto salvage yards and junk car buyers. Make sure to choose a business that is registered with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) or the Motor Vehicle Division.

Here’s what to look for in a reputable buyer:

• Proper Licensing: Always verify they are authorized to purchase junk vehicles.

• Free Towing: Many buyers offer complimentary towing for junk cars, saving you additional costs.

• Instant Payment: Legitimate buyers pay cash or check on the spot after pickup.

• Positive Reviews: Check online reviews or ask for recommendations from locals.

Selling your junk car to a certified yard ensures compliance with Montana’s regulations and helps prevent future liability.

5. Cancel Your Insurance and Return the Plates

Once you’ve agreed on the sale, there are two important follow-up steps:

1. Cancel your auto insurance. Notify your insurance provider immediately after the sale or pickup. There’s no need to keep paying for a car you no longer own.

2. Return your license plates. In Montana, plates remain the property of the owner. You can return them to your local MVD office or transfer them to another vehicle.

These small steps prevent potential fines and confusion later on.

6. Notify the MVD About the Sale

After junking your car, you must report the transfer of ownership to the Montana Motor Vehicle Division. This protects you from any future liabilities if the vehicle or its parts are misused.

To notify the MVD, complete and submit a Notice of Sale (Form MV24) within five business days of the transaction. This form can be filed online or at your local county treasurer’s office.

Failing to notify the MVD may result in fines or complications, especially if the junkyard doesn’t properly process the vehicle disposal.

7. Environmentally Responsible Junking

Junking a car isn’t just about earning cash — it’s also about disposing of it responsibly. Montana values environmental preservation, and recycling vehicles helps reduce waste, pollution, and energy consumption.

When junking your car, make sure the buyer or salvage yard follows eco-friendly recycling practices such as:

• Properly draining fluids like oil, antifreeze, and transmission fluid.

• Recycling usable parts and metals.

• Safely disposing of batteries and tires.

This ensures your old car doesn’t harm Montana’s beautiful environment and natural resources.

8. Tips to Maximize Profit When Junking Your Car

If you want to get the best price when you junk a car in Montana, here are a few practical tips:

• Remove valuable parts before selling. Items like catalytic converters, rims, or new tires can be sold separately.

• Compare multiple offers. Don’t accept the first quote; shop around for the best deal.

• Know your car’s weight. Junkyards often pay by weight, so heavier vehicles may fetch more.

• Avoid last-minute charges. Confirm whether towing or processing fees are included in the price.

Taking these extra steps can make a noticeable difference in your final payout.

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

When junking a car, it’s easy to overlook small but important details. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid:

• Forgetting to remove personal belongings.

• Failing to sign over the title correctly.

• Not verifying the buyer’s license.

• Ignoring the MVD sale notification.

Avoiding these pitfalls ensures the process goes smoothly from start to finish.

Conclusion

Junking a car in Montana doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With the right documents, a trusted buyer, and proper communication with the MVD, you can turn that old vehicle into cash while staying fully compliant with state laws. Whether your car is damaged, non-running, or just unwanted, knowing how to junk a car in Montana helps you handle the process efficiently and responsibly.

Remember, when you decide to junk your car, it’s not just about getting rid of an old ride — it’s about making a smart, eco-friendly, and financially rewarding decision.