# Hidden Costs of Keeping an Unwanted Car in Perth


Many car owners in Perth hold on to their unwanted vehicles thinking they might repair or sell them later. But what’s often overlooked is that keeping an old, unused, or damaged vehicle isn’t just a harmless inconvenience it can actually cost you money. These “hidden” costs add up over time and can outweigh any potential value the car may still hold.

If you're sitting on an unused vehicle, this blog will reveal the hidden expenses and why turning to a cash for cars Perth service could be a smarter financial move.

## 1\. Ongoing Maintenance and Repairs

Just because you're not driving a car doesn’t mean it’s not costing you. Unused vehicles still require basic maintenance to prevent deterioration. Over time, unused cars develop issues like flat tyres, dead batteries, leaking fluids, and rust especially in Perth’s coastal climate.

### Common issues include:

* Flat or cracking tyres
* Battery drain or failure
* Rust on panels and undercarriage
* Fuel system degradation

Even minimal upkeep can cost hundreds each year, and if you eventually decide to sell, the cost of getting it roadworthy may be higher than the car’s value.

## 2\. Registration and Insurance

One of the most overlooked costs is ongoing registration and insurance. Many people forget to cancel these when a car is no longer in use, leading to unnecessary annual expenses.

### Average costs in Perth:

* Registration: $500–$800 per year
* Insurance (basic cover): $300–$600 per year

That’s potentially $1,000+ every year just to keep a vehicle sitting idle in your driveway. By opting for a [**cash for cars Perth service**](https://www.metrosalvage.com.au/cash-for-cars/perth/), you can eliminate these costs immediately and get paid instead.

## 3\. Decreased Vehicle Value

Every car depreciates over time. The longer you keep an unwanted car, the more its value drops especially if it’s not running or roadworthy. In many cases, a car that could have fetched $1,000 a year ago might only be worth scrap value today.

Even if you plan to repair it, rising mechanic and parts costs may make the investment unwise. Rather than losing money to depreciation, it makes more sense to cash in while you still can.

## 4\. Lost Space and Convenience

Keeping an unwanted car takes up valuable space. Whether it’s in your garage, driveway, or on the street, that space could be used more effectively for a new car, storage, or even rented out in densely populated areas like Perth CBD, Fremantle, or Subiaco.

An unused car not only becomes an eyesore but also reduces the usability of your property. In some cases, local councils may even issue fines for abandoned vehicles left on public property.

## 5\. Environmental and Health Hazards

Old cars can become a hazard. They often leak fluids like oil, coolant, or brake fluid, which can contaminate your driveway, garden, or nearby drains. Stagnant water and rusted parts can also attract pests such as mosquitoes or rodents.

By using a cash for cars Perth service, your car is disposed of or recycled responsibly, reducing environmental harm and keeping your home safe.

## Why Cash for Cars in Perth is the Smarter Choice

### If your car is:

* Damaged
* Non-running
* Unregistered
* Old or unwanted

Then selling it to a **[cash for cars company](https://www.metrosalvage.com.au/cash-for-cars/)** is a fast, simple, and cost-effective solution.

### Benefits include:

* Instant cash payment
* Free car removal
* No paperwork hassles
* Eco-friendly recycling of car parts

You not only avoid the hidden costs but also walk away with money in your pocket often within 24 hours.

### Final Thoughts

Keeping an unwanted car might seem harmless, but the hidden costs quickly add up. From registration and maintenance to lost value and space, it’s simply not worth it. By choosing a trusted cash for cars Perth provider, you can free up space, avoid unnecessary expenses, and get paid fast.