Sell My Broken Van - What Are My Options in 2026?

Sell My Broken Van - What Are My Options in 2026?

Are you Googling  “sell my broken van”?  You are not alone. In 2026, more van owners than ever are deciding that fixing an ageing or unreliable vehicle simply is not worth it anymore.

Repair costs are rising. Parts are harder to source. Emissions rules are tighter. And downtime costs money, especially if you rely on your van for work.

The good news is this. Even if your van is broken, failed its MOT, or will not start at all. You still have options. Some are better than others.

This guide explains the realistic ways to sell a broken van in 2026. Including scrapping, selling privately, part exchange, and selling directly to a specialist buyer like Broken Ford Vans.

Option One. Scrap Your Broken Van

Scrapping is often the first thing people think of when a van breaks down badly.

If your van has major mechanical failure, severe rust, or accident damage. A scrapyard will usually offer a price based on weight and metal value.

Pros of scrapping a broken van

It is quick and straightforward
You do not need an MOT
You avoid repair costs

Cons of scrapping a broken van

You usually get the lowest possible value
No consideration for usable parts
Prices fluctuate with scrap metal rates

For many owners, scrapping feels like giving up value that could still be there.

Option Two. Sell Your Broken Van Privately

Some owners try to sell a broken van privately through classifieds or social media.

In theory, you might achieve a higher price than scrap. In reality, it rarely works smoothly.

Pros of selling privately

Potentially higher price than scrap
You control the asking price

Cons of selling privately

Time wasters and unrealistic offers
Buyers expecting a bargain
Safety concerns and viewings
Paperwork and payment risks

Broken vans are difficult to sell privately, especially without an MOT or if the fault is serious.

Option Three. Part Exchange Against Another Vehicle

If you are replacing your van anyway, a dealer may offer part exchange.

This can feel convenient, but convenience often comes at a cost.

Pros of part exchange

Easy process
No advertising or selling involved

Cons of part exchange

Low valuations for broken vans
Dealers build the cost into the new vehicle
Limited negotiation power

For broken vans, part exchange values are often not much better than scrap.

Option Four. Sell Directly to a Specialist Van Buyer

This is where many owners now get the best result.

Specialist buyers focus specifically on broken and non running vans. They understand faults, failures, and real world values.

At Broken Ford Vans, we buy vans with:
Engine failure
Gearbox problems
Wet belt failure
DPF and emissions faults
Failed MOTs
Accident damage
Electrical issues

We look beyond scrap value and price vans based on parts, demand and condition.

Why Selling a Broken Ford Van Is Different

Ford vans, especially Transits, Transit Customs and Connects, are in constant demand for parts and refurbishment.

Even with serious faults, many broken Ford vans still have strong residual value.

This is why specialist buyers can usually pay more than scrapyards or general car buyers.

If you are deciding whether to sell my broken Ford van or scrap it. It is always worth getting a specialist valuation first.

FAQs About Selling a Broken Van

Can I sell my broken van without fixing it?

Yes. You can sell your broken van exactly as it is. Specialist buyers do not require repairs or an MOT.

Can I sell my broken van if it will not start?

Yes. Non runners are very common. Collection is usually arranged as part of the sale.

Is it better to scrap or sell a broken van?

Scrapping is simple, but usually offers the lowest value. Selling to a specialist buyer often results in a higher return.

Can I sell my broken Ford van with engine failure?

Yes. Engine failure is one of the most common reasons owners sell their Ford vans.

Do I need paperwork to sell my broken van?

You will normally need the V5 logbook. If it is missing, some buyers can still help.

Thinking About Selling Your Broken Van?

If you are weighing up your options and searching sell my broken van or sell my broken Ford van, the most important thing is not to rush into scrapping it without checking its real value.

A broken van is not always worthless.