Auto Recycling

What Is a Trade-In Car? How to Get Maximum Value for Your Scrap Vehicle with Kiwi Auto Wreckers

When you’re ready to upgrade your vehicle, one of the first options that comes to mind is trading in your old car. But what happens if your vehicle is too old, damaged, deregistered, or simply not worth trading in at a dealership? That’s where Kiwi Auto Wreckers & Removals steps in.

We specialise in buying unwanted, scrap, or non-roadworthy vehicles across Wellington and the Lower North Island. You may not be able to trade your car at a dealer—but you can still get top cash for it through an experienced auto wrecker.


What is a Trade-In Car?

A trade-in car is a vehicle that you offer to a dealership as part of the payment for a new or used car. The value of your old vehicle is deducted from the price of the one you’re buying.

However, dealerships usually only accept vehicles that are in good condition, with valid registration and WOF, and they often offer low trade-in prices.


When Trade-In Isn’t an Option – Wreckers Are the Solution

If your car:

  • Is too old or high-mileage

  • Has failed its WOF

  • Has mechanical or panel damage

  • Is deregistered or written off

  • Has been sitting unused for years

…it likely won’t be accepted as a trade-in. But don’t worry—Kiwi Auto Wreckers & Removals will still buy it and pay cash on the spot.


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Interesting Facts About the Wrecking Industry in NZ

  • Over 70,000 vehicles are dismantled and recycled in New Zealand each year.

  • Auto wreckers help recover up to 85% of a car’s materials, reducing environmental waste.

  • Many scrap cars still hold value through their parts—engines, transmissions, catalytic converters, and metal body panels are highly recyclable.

  • NZTA encourages responsible car disposal through licensed wreckers to reduce illegal dumping and environmental harm.

  • The demand for used car parts continues to rise due to rising prices of imported components and vehicle ownership costs.


Why Choose Kiwi Auto Wreckers & Removals – What Sets Us Apart

We’re not just wreckers—we’re vehicle recovery and recycling experts offering honest cash quotes and fast service across the Lower North Island.

Top Cash Offers – Up to $8,000 for Scrap Vehicles

We Buy All Makes & Models – Any Condition

Same-Day or Next-Day Free Pickup

No WOF or Registration Needed

Eco-Friendly Vehicle Recycling

100% Paperwork Assistance & No Hidden Fees


Customer Testimonials

Dean R. – Wellington

“My 1997 Honda had no WOF and the dealership refused it as a trade-in. Kiwi Auto Wreckers gave me cash the same day. Super easy!”

Shelley T. – Lower Hutt

“I was quoted $400 as a trade-in. Kiwi Wreckers paid me nearly double and picked it up the same afternoon. Great service!”

Ibrahim M. – Porirua

“They bought my old ute that had been parked for 2 years. No rego, no problem. Highly recommend for anyone with a scrap car!”

Tracey L. – Palmerston North

“I didn’t want to waste time listing it online. Kiwi Wreckers handled everything—quote, pickup, payment. Brilliant team!”


Turn Your Scrap Car Into Instant Cash Today

If your vehicle is too far gone for a trade-in, don’t let it sit and rot. Contact Kiwi Auto Wreckers & Removals and turn your unwanted car into fast cash. We’ll remove it for free, pay top dollar, and make the process smooth from start to finish.

📞 Call 0800 800 721

🌐 Visit www.kiwiautowreckers.co.nz

Whether it runs or not—it’s still worth something to us!

KIwi Auto

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