California has the most robust "old car buy back" ecosystem, typically managed through local air quality districts or the Bureau of Automotive Repair.
Through the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) , income-eligible residents can receive $1,500 or $2,000 to retire a vehicle that failed its Smog Check. Even those who don't meet income requirements may still receive $1,350 to retire their vehicle. government old car buy back program
The vehicle must be drivable and able to start without a jump. California has the most robust "old car buy
This statewide program provides income-qualified households with point-of-sale rebates to replace older vehicles. In 2026, incentives can reach up to $9,000 for a new EV and $6,000 for a used EV. Typical Eligibility Requirements The vehicle must be drivable and able to
Most programs target vehicles from 2007 or older , though some specific "scrap-only" programs require the car to be from 2000 or older . Federal Status Update Vehicle Buy Back Program
As of , there is no active federal "Cash for Clunkers" program in the United States; the original Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS) was a one-time initiative that ended in 2009.
However, several currently offer cash incentives to "buy back" or retire older, high-polluting vehicles. These programs are primarily concentrated in California and Colorado . California Programs (Most Active)