Your car got you where you needed to go until it didn't. Maybe it stopped running, or maybe it suffered enough damage in a collision that your insurance company declared it totaled. As of now, you're faced with a car that won't run, and you're not sure if you should try to have it fixed or sell it to a salvage yard. Below are some reasons you should consider the latter option.

Repairs Are too Costly

Your first move should be to get an estimate on the repairs needed to get it drivable again. Once you have a good estimate of the costs, consider the value of the vehicle if it were in running condition. In many cases, the cost of the repairs exceeds the value of the car. Even if it doesn't, experts recommend against repairs if they'll cost more than half the value of the vehicle.

The Vehicle is Unfit to Drive

Once a vehicle has been totaled, you may no longer drive it. Even if it runs, you are legally prohibited from driving it. You'll have to get at least enough repairs done for it to be considered functioning. Then, you'll have to tow it to your local DMV for inspection. All of that adds to the cost, so you're probably better off selling it for salvage.

You Can Earn Money

Many people develop emotional attachments to a car they've driven for several years. However, at a certain point, the car has reached the end of the line. At that time, you can sell it for parts. Rather than cost you money, an undrivable car can actually earn you money. That money can go toward the purchase of a new, more reliable car.

You'll Free Up Space

Once your car was declared a total loss, it took up residence somewhere. You may have it in your garage or driveway or the parking lot of your residence. Wherever it's taking up space, it isn't doing any good. If you can't use the car, you can at least use the space it was occupying.

Selling for Salvage is Good for the Environment

In a similar vein, when your car is parked in one spot for an extended time, it might be releasing chemicals into the atmosphere. If it has damaged components, it might even be leaking them into the ground. This situation presents a hazard to the environment. Conversely, by selling the car for salvage, you'll be recycling the car's parts to drivers who need them for their own vehicles.

To learn more information about money for junk cars, reach out to a professional near you.