Will Carmax Buy a Car That Doesnt Run

Yes, Carmax will buy a car that doesn’t run—but the offer will reflect its condition. While they accept non-starting vehicles, the appraisal depends on factors like make, model, mileage, and repair costs. Getting a fair price means understanding their process and preparing your vehicle properly.

Key Takeaways

• Carmax does buy non-running cars: They accept vehicles that don’t start, but the offer will be significantly lower than a running counterpart.
• Appraisals are based on market value and repair estimates: Carmax uses industry tools to assess what it would cost to fix and resell the car.
• You don’t need to fix the car first: Unlike private sales, you can sell a broken-down car as-is without spending money on repairs.
• Documentation matters: Having service records, title, and registration can improve your offer and speed up the process.
• The offer is valid for 7 days: Once you receive an appraisal, you have a week to decide whether to accept it.
• Trade-in vs. cash sale: You can use the offer as a trade-in toward a Carmax vehicle or take cash—both options are available.
• Location and demand affect pricing: Popular models in good condition (even if not running) may fetch higher offers in certain markets.

Will Carmax Buy a Car That Doesn’t Run?

So your car won’t start. Maybe it’s making a clicking noise, or it turns over but never catches. Or worse—it’s completely dead, and you’re not even sure what’s wrong. You’re probably wondering: “Can I even sell this thing?” The good news? Yes, Carmax will buy a car that doesn’t run.

Unlike private buyers who often expect a working vehicle, Carmax is known for accepting cars in almost any condition—including those that don’t start. Whether your engine seized, the transmission failed, or the battery is completely shot, Carmax has a process in place to evaluate and purchase non-running vehicles. But here’s the catch: just because they’ll take it doesn’t mean you’ll get top dollar. The offer you receive will reflect the car’s condition, repair costs, and market demand.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selling a non-running car to Carmax. From how their appraisal works to what you can do to maximize your offer, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking to trade in your broken-down sedan or just want to get rid of that old SUV taking up space in your driveway, understanding Carmax’s policies can save you time, stress, and maybe even a few hundred dollars.

How Carmax Evaluates Non-Running Vehicles

When you bring a car to Carmax that doesn’t run, the appraisal process is a bit different than with a functioning vehicle. Instead of focusing on how it drives, the appraiser will assess the car’s overall condition, potential repair costs, and resale value after repairs.

The Appraisal Process Step-by-Step

When you arrive at a Carmax location, you’ll meet with a trained appraiser. They’ll start by inspecting the exterior and interior of the vehicle. Even if the car doesn’t start, they’ll check for body damage, rust, interior wear, and missing parts. Then, they’ll look under the hood to identify obvious issues—like a blown engine, missing belts, or fluid leaks.

Next, they’ll use diagnostic tools to check the electrical system and onboard computer. This helps them determine if the problem is something simple (like a bad alternator) or more serious (like a failed transmission). They’ll also check the VIN to pull up the car’s history, including past accidents, title status, and service records.

Finally, they’ll compare your vehicle to similar models in the Carmax inventory and use industry pricing guides like Kelley Blue Book and Black Book to estimate its value—both as-is and after repairs.

What Factors Affect the Offer?

Several key factors influence how much Carmax will offer for a non-running car:

• Make and model: Popular, reliable vehicles (like Toyota Camrys or Honda Accords) tend to have higher residual value, even when broken.
• Age and mileage: Older cars with high mileage will naturally receive lower offers, especially if major components are failing.
• Extent of the problem: A car with a dead battery will get a much higher offer than one with a seized engine or blown head gasket.
• Body and interior condition: Dents, rust, or a torn interior can reduce the offer, even if the mechanical issue is minor.
• Title status: A clean title increases value. Salvage or rebuilt titles will significantly lower the offer.
• Market demand: If Carmax has a shortage of a particular model, they may offer more—even for a non-running version.

For example, a 2018 Honda Civic with 80,000 miles that won’t start due to a faulty starter might get an offer of $8,000–$10,000. But a 2010 Ford Focus with 150,000 miles and a blown engine might only fetch $1,500–$2,500.

What Types of Problems Does Carmax Accept?

Carmax doesn’t discriminate based on the type of mechanical failure—within reason. They’ll consider almost any issue, as long as the car is legal to sell and has a valid title.

Common Issues Carmax Will Buy

Here are some of the most common problems Carmax accepts in non-running vehicles:

• Engine failure: Seized engines, blown head gaskets, or thrown rods.
• Transmission issues: Slipping gears, no movement in drive, or complete transmission failure.
• Electrical problems: Dead batteries, faulty alternators, or wiring issues.
• Fuel system failures: Clogged fuel pumps, injectors, or lines.
• Ignition system faults: Bad starters, ignition switches, or coil packs.
• Cooling system breakdowns: Radiator leaks, water pump failure, or overheating damage.
• Accident damage: Cars that were in crashes but are still structurally sound.

Even if your car has multiple issues—say, a bad transmission and a cracked windshield—Carmax will still make an offer. They’re in the business of fixing and reselling cars, so they’re equipped to handle repairs.

What Carmax Typically Won’t Accept

While Carmax is flexible, there are some situations where they may decline to purchase a vehicle:

• Flood or fire damage: These types of damage can compromise safety and electronics, making the car too risky to resell.
• Salvage title with major structural damage: If the frame is bent or the car was declared a total loss, Carmax may pass.
• Missing major components: Cars without engines, transmissions, or essential parts may be rejected.
• Odometer rollback or fraud: If the mileage has been tampered with, Carmax will not proceed.
• Stolen or lien-held vehicles: You must have a clear title and proof of ownership.

It’s always best to call your local Carmax before visiting if your car has severe damage or a questionable history. They can give you a preliminary assessment over the phone.

Should You Fix the Car Before Selling?

One of the biggest questions people have is: “Should I spend money to fix my car before selling it to Carmax?” The short answer? Usually, no.

The Cost-Benefit Analysis of Repairs

Let’s say your car has a bad alternator that’s preventing it from starting. A mechanic might charge $400–$600 to replace it. If fixing it increases your Carmax offer by $800, then it might be worth it. But if the offer only goes up by $300, you’re actually losing money.

In most cases, Carmax will deduct the estimated repair cost from the car’s market value. So if your car is worth $10,000 in good condition but needs $2,000 in repairs, they’ll offer around $8,000. If you spend $2,000 to fix it yourself, you’d need the offer to increase by more than $2,000 to break even—which rarely happens.

When It Might Make Sense to Repair

There are a few exceptions:

• Simple, low-cost fixes: Replacing a battery ($100–$200) or a fuse ($10) could make the car start, potentially increasing the offer.
• High-demand vehicles: If you have a popular truck or SUV, a small repair might significantly boost value.
• You’re trading in: If you’re buying a new car from Carmax, a higher trade-in value could reduce your monthly payment or down payment.

But for most people, it’s better to sell the car as-is and let Carmax handle the repairs. They have certified technicians and access to parts at wholesale prices, so they can often fix issues more cheaply than you can.

How to Prepare Your Non-Running Car for Sale

Even though your car doesn’t run, there are still steps you can take to improve your chances of getting a fair offer.

Gather All Documentation

Bring everything you have related to the car:

• Vehicle title: Must be signed and in your name.
• Registration: Shows the car is legally yours.
• Service records: Proof of regular maintenance can increase value.
• Owner’s manual and keys: Extra keys or a working remote can add a small bonus.
• Loan payoff information: If you still owe money, Carmax can pay off the lender directly.

Having these documents ready speeds up the process and shows Carmax you’re serious about selling.

Clean the Car (If Possible)

You don’t need to detail it, but removing trash, personal items, and giving it a quick vacuum can make a difference. A clean interior suggests the car was well cared for, which can positively influence the appraiser.

Be Honest About the Problem

Don’t try to hide the issue. Tell the appraiser exactly what’s wrong—when it stopped running, any warning lights, or strange noises. The more information you provide, the more accurate the offer will be.

For example, saying “It cranks but won’t start—I think it’s the fuel pump” is better than “It just stopped working.” This helps Carmax assess repair costs correctly and avoids lowball offers based on worst-case assumptions.

What Happens After the Appraisal?

Once the appraisal is complete, Carmax will give you a written offer. Here’s what you need to know about next steps.

The Offer Is Good for 7 Days

Carmax offers are typically valid for seven days. This gives you time to think it over, get quotes from other buyers, or compare trade-in values. If you accept within that window, the deal is locked in.

You Can Take Cash or Use It as a Trade-In

You have two options:

• Cash sale: Carmax will pay you directly via check or bank transfer.
• Trade-in: Apply the offer toward the purchase of a vehicle from Carmax. This can reduce your out-of-pocket cost or monthly payment.

If you’re trading in, you can browse Carmax’s inventory online or in-store. They have thousands of used cars, trucks, and SUVs, many of which come with a 30-day return policy and a limited warranty.

Carmax Handles the Paperwork

Once you accept the offer, Carmax takes care of the title transfer, registration, and any lien payoff. You don’t need to visit the DMV. Just sign the paperwork, and they’ll handle the rest.

Tips to Get the Best Offer for Your Non-Running Car

Want to maximize your payout? Here are some proven strategies:

Shop Around

Don’t accept the first offer. Visit multiple Carmax locations or get quotes from other buyers like Carvana, Vroom, or local junkyards. Compare offers and use the highest one as leverage.

Time Your Sale Right

Demand for certain vehicles fluctuates. For example, trucks and SUVs often sell for more in winter. If you’re not in a rush, wait for a season when your car’s type is in higher demand.

Highlight Positive Features

Even if the car doesn’t run, point out things like low mileage, new tires, a clean interior, or recent repairs. These can offset the cost of the mechanical issue.

Consider Selling for Parts

If Carmax’s offer is very low, you might get more money selling the car to a junkyard or parts recycler. They pay based on weight and usable components. However, this requires more effort and may involve towing.

Use the Offer as a Starting Point

Carmax offers are not always final. If you have a higher quote from another buyer, ask if they’ll match it. While they don’t always negotiate, it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Real-Life Example: Selling a Non-Running Car to Carmax

Let’s look at a real-world scenario:

Sarah has a 2015 Toyota Corolla with 120,000 miles. It won’t start—the engine makes a loud knocking noise when she turns the key. She suspects a seized engine.

She brings it to Carmax (using a tow truck, which Carmax can arrange). The appraiser inspects the car, checks the VIN, and confirms the engine is locked up. They also note that the interior is clean, the tires are good, and the body has only minor scratches.

Using their pricing tools, Carmax estimates the car would be worth $9,000 if running and in good condition. Repairing the engine would cost about $3,500. So they offer Sarah $5,500.

Sarah compares this to a junkyard quote of $1,200 and a private buyer who offered $4,000 (but wanted her to fix it first). She decides to accept Carmax’s offer because it’s fair, hassle-free, and she doesn’t have to spend money on repairs.

She uses the $5,500 as a trade-in toward a certified pre-owned Honda CR-V at Carmax, reducing her monthly payment by $150.

This example shows how selling a non-running car to Carmax can be a smart financial move—even when the vehicle isn’t in working order.

Conclusion

So, will Carmax buy a car that doesn’t run? Absolutely. They’re one of the most buyer-friendly dealerships when it comes to non-starting vehicles. While you won’t get the same price as a running car, you’ll receive a fair, no-hassle offer based on the vehicle’s condition and repair costs.

The key is to go in prepared: bring your documents, be honest about the problem, and understand that the offer reflects real market value. You don’t need to fix the car first, and you don’t need to deal with the stress of private sales or junkyards.

Whether you’re looking to cash out or trade up, Carmax provides a reliable, transparent way to sell a non-running car. And with their 7-day offer guarantee, you have time to make the best decision for your situation.

So if your car won’t start and you’re ready to move on, don’t let it sit in your driveway collecting dust. Take it to Carmax—you might be surprised by what they’re willing to pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Carmax buy a car that doesn’t run?

Yes, Carmax will buy a car that doesn’t run. They accept non-starting vehicles as long as they have a valid title and aren’t severely damaged by flood or fire.

How much will Carmax offer for a non-running car?

The offer depends on the car’s make, model, mileage, condition, and repair costs. It’s typically the market value minus estimated repair expenses.

Do I need to fix my car before selling it to Carmax?

No, you don’t need to fix it. Carmax buys cars as-is and handles repairs internally. In most cases, fixing it yourself won’t increase the offer enough to justify the cost.

Can I trade in a non-running car at Carmax?

Yes, you can use the offer as a trade-in toward a vehicle purchase at Carmax. This can reduce your down payment or monthly payments.

How long is a Carmax offer valid?

Carmax offers are typically valid for 7 days. You can accept the offer within that time frame or let it expire.

What documents do I need to sell a non-running car to Carmax?

You’ll need the vehicle title, registration, and any service records. If you still owe money on the car, bring your loan payoff information.