Sell My Broken Van With No MOT, What Buyers Look For

If you are looking to sell  your  broken van with no MOT, you are probably dealing with one of two things. Your van has failed its MOT. Or it is not worth putting through one. Either way, you might be thinking it is now worthless, it is not.

In 2026, thousands of vans are sold every year without an MOT. The key is understanding what buyers actually look for, and who to sell it to.

Can You Sell a Broken Van With No MOT?

Yes, you can legally sell a van without an MOT. However, selling privately becomes much harder. Most private buyers want something they can drive away. A van with no MOT raises red flags. Specialist buyers are different. They expect it. If you are searching ‘sell my broken Ford van with no MOT’  You are already looking in the right direction.

Why Vans Fail MOTs in the First Place

Most MOT failures fall into predictable categories:

• Rust and corrosion
• Brake imbalance or worn components
• Suspension wear
• Emissions failures
• DPF faults
• Engine management lights
• Excessive smoke

Sometimes the repair cost is minor. Sometimes it runs into the thousands.

When repair costs exceed the van’s value, owners start searching sell my broken van instead.

What Buyers Actually Look For

A missing MOT does not automatically mean scrap value. Buyers look at the bigger picture.

Here is what really matters.

1. Make and Model

Ford vans, especially Transit models, are always in demand. Parts value alone can make them worth strong money.

If you are looking to sell my broken Ford van, the model itself works in your favour.

2. Overall Condition

Bodywork condition matters.
Interior condition matters.
Mileage matters.

A tidy van with a failed MOT is worth far more than a neglected one.

3. Type of MOT Failure

There is a big difference between:

A failed bulb
A rusty chassis
Major engine failure

Specialist buyers assess the fault, not just the certificate.

4. Service History

Even if the van is broken, service records increase confidence and value.

5. Demand for Parts

Some vans are worth more broken than running because of parts demand. Engines, gearboxes, panels, interiors and electronics all carry value.

Why Selling Privately Is Hard Without an MOT

Selling a van privately with no MOT often leads to low offers from time wasters who will undoubtedly come with payment risks. Most serious buyers will expect heavy discounts.

This is why many owners skip the hassle and sell directly to a specialist buyer.

Scrap vs Specialist Buyer

If your van has no MOT, your first instinct may be to scrap it.

Scrapyards price based on weight. Specialist buyers price based on:

• Parts value
• Model demand
• Repair viability
• Export potential

That difference can be significant. Before you scrap it, always check its true market value.

Can You Sell a Non Runner With No MOT?

Non runners are extremely common. Collection vehicles are used. Payment is usually arranged before collection. A van that will not start does not mean it has no value.

Is It Worth Putting It Through an MOT First?

This depends entirely on the likely repair cost.

If the van needs major structural welding, engine work or emissions repairs, putting it through an MOT may just confirm what you already know. In many cases, it makes more financial sense to sell it as it stands.

The Simple Way to Sell a Broken Van With No MOT

Ford Transits and Transit Customs are consistently strong in the used and parts market.

Even with w et belt failures, engine knocks, gearbox issues, failed emissions and electrical faults. They still carry demand. The easiest route in 2026 is to get a valuation from a broken van buying specialist and confirm a collection date. Then upon handover, receive your full payment. No repairs, no retest, no advertising and no stress.

FAQs About Selling a Broken Van With No MOT

Can I sell my broken van with no MOT legally?

Yes. You can legally sell a vehicle without an MOT. The buyer must arrange transport if it is not road legal.

Is a van with no MOT only worth scrap value?

No. Many vans are worth significantly more than scrap, especially Ford models.

Will I get less money without an MOT?

Possibly, but not always. It depends on the fault and the overall condition.

Can I sell my broken Ford van if it failed on emissions?

Yes. Emissions failures are common and do not automatically mean the van is worthless.

Do specialist buyers collect vans with no MOT?

Yes. Collection is usually arranged as part of the sale.

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.