Can I Scrap a Car Without Keys?

Yes, you can definitely scrap a car without keys. Not having keys does not prevent you from scrapping your vehicle.

However, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership to show the vehicle legally belongs to you. That includes the V5C logbook, a photo ID (like a driving licence or passport) and proof of address dated within the last three months (like a utility bill or bank statement).

That said, the process is still relatively simple and does not require the car to be running or unlocked. This quick guide outlines the steps required to scrap a car without keys so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

How to scrap a car without keys

The process is almost identical to scrapping any other vehicle. You’ll just need to give a few extra details when booking.

1. Get an instant scrap car quote.
2. Tell us the car has no keys when you book the collection.
3. Arrange collection with the recovery team; they’ll bring the right equipment.
4. Show your proof of ownership (V5C, photo ID and proof of address) to the collector.
5. Get paid on the spot via secure bank transfer.
6. Receive your Certificate of Destruction once the ATF finishes the job.

The steps are easy to follow, but the recovery team will absolutely need to know the car’s missing its keys ahead of time. That way, they come prepared with the winches, wheel skates lock-out tools we need to get the job done safely.

Does my car need to be unlocked to be scrapped?

No, your car doesn’t need to be unlocked to be scrapped. Scrap yards are fully equipped to handle locked vehicles and can gain access using specialist tools or, if necessary, break a window to safely prepare it for transport. So the process will proceed as usual and without any major issues; it just takes a little more work on the collector’s end.

Will not having keys affect the value of my scrap car?

Yes, not having keys will affect the value of your scrap car. Without keys, the collection team needs special equipment to move or load the vehicle, which adds time, effort and cost. It also means they can’t test any reusable parts, which reduces what the car is worth for salvage.

That said, you’ll still get a guaranteed offer, just at a lower price than you would for a complete, accessible car. And don’t worry because even without keys, the car can absolutely still be scrapped.

What should I do if I’ve lost my car keys?

If you've lost the keys and you want to scrap your car, you're in a frustrating position because replacement keys cost between £250 and £600, depending on what kind of car you drive. But it’s still possible to scrap the car.

You’ve got a few options:

• Try to order a replacement key through the manufacturer.
• Contact a locksmith to cut and program a new one.
• Simply decide to scrap the car as-is if the cost of a new key isn’t worth it.

It’s almost always cheaper and easier to sell it as-is rather than replacing the keys. The replacement cost could be as much as, if not more than, the total scrap value of the car.

If you do choose to scrap it without keys, just make sure you’ve got the V5C logbook, photo ID, and proof of address ready. With those documents in hand, the collection team can handle the rest, even if the car can’t be unlocked or started.

Will scrap yards collect a car without keys?

Yes, scrap yards will collect a car without keys. Many are equipped with winches, wheel skates, tilt-and-slide recovery trucks and sometimes even Hiab cranes, making it easy to load and move vehicles that can’t be unlocked or steered.

It’s completely routine for car scrap yards to handle cars in this condition, so the collection process won’t be held up just because the keys are missing.

How do I notify the DVLA when scrapping a car without keys?

Keys or no keys, you must notify the DVLA whenever you scrap a car because that’s what officially transfers responsibility from you to the scrap yard and protects you from future fines and liability.

To notify them, you’ll:

1. Complete the ‘transfer to a motor trader, insurer or dismantler’ section of the V5C logbook.
2. Post that section directly to the DVLA yourself, or complete the process online.
3. Receive a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) from the ATF once the car is scrapped.

Making sure the DVLA is notified keeps everything legal and ensures you’re not linked to the vehicle after it’s been destroyed. Not to mention, you’ll be fined up to £1,000 if you don’t.