What Really Happens to Your Car After We Collect It
What Happens to a Car After It’s Scrapped?
After a car is scrapped, it is depolluted, reusable parts are removed, and the remaining metal is recycled. A licensed ATF notifies the DVLA and issues a Certificate of Destruction.
· Updated for 2026
Most drivers know how easy it is to scrap a car — but very few know what actually happens after the vehicle leaves their driveway.
Does it get crushed immediately? Are parts reused? Is it really recycled properly?
This guide walks you through the full journey of a scrap car, from collection to recycling, so you know exactly where your vehicle ends up and why using a licensed ATF matters.
Step 1: Collection From Your Home or Driveway
Once you accept your quote and book a time, we collect your vehicle from anywhere in Northamptonshire.
The car does not need to start, be taxed or have an MOT.
At collection:
- The vehicle is checked against the quote details
- Ownership is confirmed
- Payment is sent by instant bank transfer
From that point, responsibility for the car transfers to us.
Step 2: Arrival at an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF)
Your car is transported to a licensed Authorised Treatment Facility.
Only ATFs are legally allowed to dismantle and scrap vehicles in the UK.
This protects:
- You, from future DVLA liability
- The environment, from unsafe disposal
- The wider public, from illegal vehicle handling
Step 3: Depollution (The Most Important Part)
Before anything else happens, the vehicle is depolluted.
This involves safely removing:
- Fuel
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Brake fluid
- Battery and hazardous components
This step ensures nothing harmful leaks into the environment.
Step 4: Parts Removal & Reuse
Any parts that can be safely reused are removed.
This may include:
- Engines or gearboxes (where viable)
- Panels and trim
- Alternators and starters
- Wheels and tyres
Reusing parts reduces waste and demand for new manufacturing.
Step 5: Crushing, Shredding & Metal Recycling
Once reusable parts are removed, the remaining shell is processed.
The metal is shredded and separated into:
- Steel
- Aluminium
- Other recyclable materials
Up to 95% of every vehicle is recycled.
DVLA Notification & Certificate of Destruction
As part of the process, the ATF notifies the DVLA that the vehicle has been scrapped.
A Certificate of Destruction (CoD) is issued, confirming:
- The car is permanently off the road
- You are no longer responsible for it
This is your legal protection.
Why This Process Matters
Using an unlicensed buyer may seem quicker — but it risks:
- Environmental damage
- DVLA fines
- Ongoing liability
That’s why it’s critical to scrap through a licensed ATF.
Why Choose Take My Car Away?
- Licensed Authorised Treatment Facility
- 95% vehicle recycling rate
- DVLA handled correctly
- Fast payment and free collection
Learn more on How We Work or About Us.
Ready to Scrap Your Car?
Questions? Contact our team.
