How To Scrap Car Without Logbook: Complete Guide

So! It looks like you’ve lost your logbook!

Or temporarily misplaced.

Scrapping a car with no logbook is possible.

To scrap a car with no logbook,  you must inform the DVLA online once your vehicle has been scrapped,  or request a new logbook.

Keep reading to find out more!

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What Is A V5C Logbook, And Why Do I Need It?

A V5C logbook is a document issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (or DVLA to you and me).

A logbook records the registered keeper of a vehicle and state information regarding a vehicle, including its emission class, tax band category and registered address (this may be for the business or person who has taxed the car, not necessarily the owner).

In most instances, those who own the vehicle are typically the registered keeper on the V5C logbook.

A V5C logbook is one of the most important pieces of document a motorist can hold, so it’s essential to have one to hand and to be kept safe.

Using your logbook to sell a car for scrap or salvage

Do you need a logbook to scrap a car? Most likely not!

You may have the V5C logbook ready when selling a car for scrap.

Once your vehicle has been collected, you must note the name, address and V.A.T. number of the motor trader (or recycler) who now owns the car before scrapping.

The DVLA requires this to be completed and for them to be informed for their records. Failure to do so can lead to a £1000 fine. Hence, these must be avoided when scrapping a car or with no logbook.

Also, remember that if your vehicle is sold for salvage, you must inform the DVLA of the new owner.

Selling a car with no logbook to a scrapyard

When selling a vehicle to a trusted scrapyard, you may think you must provide the V5C logbook. This is for mainly two reasons.

  1. States you are the legal owner of the vehicle
  2. Reduce crime and theft.
  3. Log the details of the new owner.

However, under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, all car dealers must require valid photo I.D.s and proof of address from sellers.

This means that you can legally scrap a car with no logbook. However, most people (for peace of mind) provide the V5C logbook as they can request the details of the A.T.F. of where the vehicle was sent.

Scrap A SORN car with no logbook.

Lastly, it’s essential to mention that if your vehicle is SORN (off the road), you do not need a logbook to sell your scrap car.

To scrap a car that is not SORN, having the last V5C logbook to hand is beneficial as it proves your ownership.

You can request a copy from the DVLA if you do not have a V5C logbook.

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How To Inform DVLA When Scrapping A Car

So, once your vehicle has been collected and taken to an authorised treatment facility for scrappage.

Informing the DVLA once your car has been scrapped can be completed in two ways. Either online or by post.

If you have any remaining road tax or insurance, you must inform the DVLA of your vehicle being scrapped.

By telling the DVLA, you will not be charged any remaining road tax left on your vehicle, although this is the case if you pay your road tax monthly via direct debit.

How To Order a New Logbook

If you’ve lost your logbook and feel it’s worth finding a replacement, you can order one through the DVLA.

There are two primary forms of logbook you can request.

The first is your typical V5C logbook. This was previously a blue colour, so it will be under the red versions when a new one is requested.

The other version of the logbook you can request is a temporary logbook.

What do I need to order a new logbook?

You will need to provide the following when requesting a new logbook.

  1. The vehicle REG
  2. The VIN/Chassis number of your vehicle
  3. The name and address of the keeper of the register on the logbook.

The cost of replacing a V5C logbook is £25.

By applying online, you can expect to receive your V5C logbook within four working days.

If you choose the traditional paper approach, processing and replacing your logbook can take up to 4-6 weeks!

DVLA requirements for scrap cars
Change Details On A V5C logbook

Need to update and change some details, such as the address, on your V5C logbook?

You can request to change the address on your V5C logbook.

To do this, you must provide your vehicle registration number and the 11-digit reference number from your previous logbook.

Any other changes, like the colour of your vehicle, its chassis, the number of seats, and any modifications, must also be updated on the DVLA’s Records.

You can change your address and other details of your logbook below.

Scrap Your Car Without A Logbook Today!

By now, we hope you know how to sell a car with no logbook for scrap!

There are a few factors to remember, but thankfully if you’re in good hands, like the many scrap yards on our network, you’ve nothing to worry about.

Our licensed, trusted vehicle buyers buy scrap and salvage vehicles with complete peace of mind. When you receive your quote for your car on the back of the truck, our agents will handle the paperwork, such as filling in your V5C logbook.

We can also provide additional documentation, such as a certificate of destruction if required.

With such peace of mind, it’s no wonder thousands of motorists choose to scrap locally when selling their old cars for scrap or salvage.

Scrap your car with no logbook with our award-winning service today!

Question On Scrapping A Car With No Logbook?

We hope not!

You can find a full section of paperwork and documentation-related FAQs on our main FAQ category page.

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