Scrapping an old car feels like a quick and easy decision, especially if it is no longer running or its repair costs are more than its recent value. Many people think that scrapping an old car is like handing keys to a scrap dealer and walking away. But the reality is quite different. There are many key items you need to remove to protect your personal information, maximize its value, and avoid last-minute headaches. Oversight of such things can put you in legal losses, unnecessary stress, or even financial loss in the future. In this article, we will explore in detail the hidden things you must check before handing your car to a car scrap buyer to stay safe, competent, and stress-free.
A complete guide to checking hidden things before handing them over to scrap buyers:
- Remove personal belongings:
Many people can forget their precious stuff in the car for a week and sometimes for a month. It sounds surprising, but from sunglasses to shopping bags, toll receipts to ID cards, or even sometimes essential documents, such as a car, is becoming a second home. Take time to double-check from every nook to cranny before handing the car to the scrap dealer. Must check the glove box, under the seats, boot/trunk, door pockets, and dashboard storage before saying goodbye to your vehicle.
- Cancel your insurance:
If your car insurance policy is still active when, you hand it over to a car scrap buyer without its cancellation. The result is you still pay a premium on cars that are not owned. In such cases, if your car is used in such an illegal process before dismantling, then you are liable for that scenario. It is wise to inform your insurance company that your car has been scrapped. Request them to policy cancellation on transfer on no-claim bonus and must receive written proof of cancellation or email verification to stay safe and competent.
- Remove the car’s number plate(if applicable):
Number plates are often connected with vehicle registration certificates that lead to connections with personal information. If you choose authorised car scrap dealers, then a number plate can be returned after deregistration. But, in such cases, some local dealers can keep it and misuse it, leading to some legal issues. Always remove the number plate before handling, especially if the RC is not canceled immediately.
- Collect the valid scrapping certificate:
One of the most essential documents in the vehicle scrapping process is to collect a valid scrapping certificate from scrap buyers. It proves that the vehicle is dismantled legally, environmentally friendly, and no longer used on the road. It is an essential document required in the cancellation of RC at RTO. It protects you from legal issues in the future if your car is used in illegal incidents. Always choose authorised car scrap dealers who can issue this document without fail.
- Inform the RTO and cancel your RC:
Cancellation of RC is the most essential and the last step of the vehicle scrapping process. Many people can forget to complete this step, but RTO deregistration is crucial. Even after scrapping your vehicle, if your RC is still active, then legally, you are considered an owner. To avoid penalties and legal issues, visit your local RTO, submit a vehicle deregistration certificate, fill out form 21 or 22( if required), request for vehicle deregistration, and lastly, get confirmation from the RTO in written or online to stay safe, smarter, and stress-free.
- Check if you’re eligible for scrappage benefits:
Under the vehicle scrappage policy, if your vehicle is more than 15 years old and failed to complete the fitness test, then you are eligible to get government incentives. Remember, it is available only when you choose authorised car scrap dealers, and the vehicle may be dismantled under rules and regulations, not harmed to the environment.
Note: So, before proceeding, you must ask about the process and documents to get significant benefits on your newly purchased car.
- Unlink your FASTag or other linked services:
If your FASTag is still active, then expenses continue to be deducted from your wallet. After the vehicle scrapping process, go to the website or portal of FASTag, request to cancel or transfer the tag, and get confirmation through email or sms. Additionally, if your car is still connected to other services, such as in-built GPS and smart car apps, then unlink or remove your recent vehicle information from those platforms to save your money.
- Get a copy of the scrap dealer’s ID or business license:
Take a little research before handling your car; you must check the authenticity of the car scrap buyer. Ask for their government-approved business license or GST number, or you may take a photo of their identity like an Aadhar card or PAN card. Otherwise, note down the address details of the workshop.
Note: A reliable scrap dealer never hesitates to share this information with you. They also support the legal process if it happens after vehicle scrapping.
- Empty the fuel tank:
If your vehicle is still in running condition, then there is leftover fuel there, which you have already paid for. Before scrapping, you must take out and clear the fuel tank. This is value for your money; don’t let it go to waste.
- Get a proper receipt from a scrap dealer:
Always take a written receipt from a scrap dealer about your vehicle scrapping process. In this document, the complete details of your vehicle, like make, model, registration number, chassis number, date of scrapping, the weight of the vehicle while scrapping, the amount paid, and dealer’s signature or business stamp, are mentioned. This document can protect you from stuck disputes in the future.
Summary:
Scrapping an old car is just handing your keys to a scrap dealer and hoping for the best. It includes taking a few careful steps, which can save you from legal, financial, and personal issues. Before handling your vehicle to scrap buyers must follow a few steps such as removing personal belongings, clearing insurance, canceling RC, informing RTO, taking vehicle deregistration, checking the authenticity of the car scrap buyer, and taking the written receipt. Remember, just a few careful steps can save you from big trouble tomorrow. To know more information, contact www.smartkabadi.com
