The most important step in selling a car is calculating the value. This stands true when junking a car, as well, because you want to make sure you are getting exactly what your car is worth. Once you know the value of your car, you will be in a better position to negotiate in an objective manner. While the Kelley Blue Book, NADA Guide and Edmunds are a great at valuing used cars which are running and have some minor mechanical or cosmetic issues, they are not as accurate in valuing junk cars or cars with serious mechanical or body damage. However, it is important to keep in mind these three things when valuing your junk car: 

Age

As a vehicle ages, the ownership of a vehicle declines; meaning most people prefer a newer car. If you have a vehicle that is less than fifteen years old than you may find that some of its components that are in good shape may be in high demand for parts. Also, if your automobile is a make that is known for excellent reliability, like Honda or Toyota, than its parts may be of value despite the age of the car. This is due to the fact that people tend to drive these types of automobiles for many years and the parts are in demand. 

Make and model 

Cars with a popular make and model or cars with makes that have proven excellent reliability have been shown to have the greatest amount of value to salvage yards that offer cash for junk cars. Even when a car is a popular model, but not necessarily reliable, it may still be worth some cash. This is due the fact that a popular model is owned by a lot of people so parts are always in high demand, and will remain in high demand for about ten years after the release date. 

Condition

carsjunk.com don't require a car to be in excellent condition in order to offer cash for it. But, if a car is in poor condition, it must have some usable parts. Components such as body panel and cabin components that are in good condition and fully functional engine parts add value, despite the condition of the car. Generally speaking, even if a car has been in an accident, it typically contains some useful components.

carsjunk.com buy various types of vehicles, regardless of age and make and model; salvage yards also buy cars that are old, wrecked, or are no longer functioning due to mechanical issues. A salvage yard is going to consider your junk cars age, make and model, and condition to determine an appropriate value.