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    Car scrappage schemes

    Is it time to move your old, current car on? Has it past its sell-by-date? In that case, scrapping it is something to consider. 

    Car scrappage scheme deals are designed to help you trade in older vehicles for something newer, cleaner, and often more fuel-efficient. There are various options, from government-backed incentives for reducing emissions to manufacturer-led schemes encouraging upgrades. 

    Each scrappage deal has perks, so exploring what best suits your needs is worth exploring. Whether you’re after an eco-friendly option or just looking to save on a new set of wheels, keep reading to learn about the best scrappage schemes.

    celebrate
    Manufacturer car scrappage schemes offered incentives for trading an old car with a discount on newer, greener ones.

    Government car scrappage schemes

    A government-backed scrappage scheme is one way to scrap your car.

    Why did the government bring in these schemes?

    Following a long period during which the UK government was repeatedly taken to the European Court of Justice over city pollution levels, car scrappage schemes became essential in addressing these problems. Indeed, in 2017, the UK government pledged to ‘be the first generation to leave the environment in a better state than we inherited it.’

    Much of the focus had been on the dangerous nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels, so the government implemented new legislation to address this. In 2020, the UK government brought forward its ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) cars and vans from 2040 to 2030 as part of an ambitious ten-point plan to make the UK carbon-neutral by 2050.

    Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was also set to announce a new UK scheme the same year, but this was deprioritised after the COVID crisis. The UK Government has now officially ruled out any such scheme. In September 2023, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pushed the ban on selling new ICE vehicles back five years to 2035.

    This resulted in plummeting diesel car sales, leaving ICE vehicle owners needing guidance on what to do next. Recent economic uncertainty has also forced the UK government to cut public spending. As a result, many car scrappage schemes have been stopped, and there are no plans to return. 

    Regional government schemes

    Recent economic uncertainty has forced the UK government to cut public spending. As a result, as of November 2024, the UK does not have a nationwide government-backed car scrappage scheme. There are also no plans for them to return

    However, there are local initiatives in place to encourage the replacement of older, more polluting vehicles:

    London’s ULEZ scrappage scheme

    https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/london-uk-february-24-2023-ulez-2267400357

    The London Ultra Low Emission Zone was introduced in Central London in 2019.

    London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone Scrappage Scheme offers grants to help residents replace or retrofit older vehicles that don’t meet ULEZ emissions standards. It’s designed to reduce pollution in the city by encouraging people to upgrade to Euro 6 compliant vehicles, basically electric cars and other electric vehicles, so they can drive for free in the capital.

    If eligible, you could enjoy cleaner driving and dodge the ULEZ charge. To apply for the scrappage scheme, you need to:

    • Visit the Transport for London (TfL) website to begin your application.
    • Ensure eligibility by confirming that you own a non-ULEZ-compliant vehicle and live in Greater London.
    • Prepare the required documents, including proof of ownership and residence.
    • Submit your application online.

    You could receive a grant to replace or retrofit your car if approved. TfL’s website has more information about the new £160m scrappage scheme. 

    You can check your car’s ULEZ compliance here.

    Birmingham’s CAZ  scrappage scheme

    Birmingham’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) scrappage scheme offers grants to residents and workers within the CAZ to replace high-emission vehicles. If you drive an older, non-compliant car in Birmingham, this scheme can help you upgrade to a cleaner car, making city journeys greener and CAZ-charge-free.

    To apply, you must:

    • Confirm that you live or work within Birmingham’s CAZ and that your vehicle doesn’t meet the emission standards.
    • Prepare proof of residency or employment within the CAZ, vehicle ownership documents, and any additional paperwork specified by the council.
    • Visit Birmingham City Council’s website, complete the application form, and upload the required documents for review.
    toxin tax and car scrappage schemes
    Diesel emissions have caused high levels of NO2 pollution

    Car manufacturer scrappage schemes

    Many car manufacturers started scrappage schemes to promote a greener environment in the UK and improve air quality, offering financial incentives for trading in older, high-polluting vehicles. However, like the government schemes, many of these initiatives have been quietly discontinued due to the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak and the subsequent economic uncertainty.

    As of November 2024, the manufacturers who have discontinued their schemes include:

    • Ford
    • Kia
    • Hyundai
    • Mitsubishi
    • Mazda
    • Audi
    • BMW
    • Mercedes-Benz
    • Toyota
    • Volvo
    • Vauxhall
    • Skoda

    Those with current offers include:

    Renault

    • Renault’s ‘New for Old’ scheme offers discounts ranging from £750 to £2,750 when you trade in your old vehicle for a new Renault model.
    • This offer is valid for orders placed by 3 January 2024 and registered by 31 March 2024. 

    Volkswagen 

    • Volkswagen offers discounts to London residents with non-ULEZ-compliant cars. Eligible customers can receive savings on various models, such as £1,750 off a Polo or up to £4,500 off an ID.5. 
    • This scheme is available until 30 December 2023. 

    Please note that these schemes have specific eligibility criteria and timeframes. For the most current information and to confirm availability, contact local dealerships or visit the manufacturer’s official websites.

    FAQs

    Should I scrap or sell my car?

    Deciding to scrap or sell depends on your car’s condition. If it’s still roadworthy, selling could get you more cash. But if repairs are piling up, scrapping might be more straightforward. And you may qualify for a scrappage scheme bonus that lets you buy a new car!

    What happens to my car when I scrap it?

    When you scrap your car, it’s taken to an Authorised Treatment Facility, where it’s responsibly dismantled and recycled, and any hazardous materials are safely disposed of. Think of it as your car’s eco-friendly farewell tour… giving its parts a second life! 

    Is it time to sell your car?

    Want to learn more about owning, maintaining, and selling your car? Check out more of our guides here, covering everything from finding buyers, to negotiating a good price, and completing payment safely. 

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