Should You Fix or Sell Your Kharab Car in Dubai?

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  • 27 August,2025 , 02:16 pm

Should You Fix or Sell Your Kharab Car in Dubai?

Having a vehicle in Dubai gives you comfort and convenience; however, what do you do when your motor vehicle breaks down or has become a kharab car? This is when most car owners have a major dilemma, whether to continue spending dollars fixing their vehicle, or sell your kharab car in Dubai and move on.

In this blog, we will point out some things to consider, a case study, and then the options available to ultimately help you make the best financial decision.

Understanding the True Expense of Fixing a Kharab Car.

Repairing a kharab or engine-damaged car is not as simple as it seems. Mechanics in Dubai might give you an estimated price for your repair, but it's often when they actually get into the car, they discover more problems.

For example:

  • To repair an engine can cost you thousands of dirhams.
  • Similar to transmission can be just as tedious and costly.
  • Even simply replacing smaller parts will add up quickly.

If your car is really old, there are times when the price to repair it may be more than what the car is really worth. Because of this, most drivers choose to sell a kharab car instead of trying to continuously repair it.

When To Sell Your Kharab Car vs. Fix It?

Most of the time, you’re better off selling your car for cash than you are to try to fix it. Here’s why: 

  • Expensive repairs: Let’s say the repairs are over 50% of what the car is currently worth; selling it is the reasonable choice. 
  • Depreciation: Cars in Dubai depreciate faster than you can calculate. So when and if you repair your car, the resale value likely won’t reflect much change. 
  • Time and frustrations: The amount of time you’ll spend going into the garage and waiting for parts can be exhausting. 
  • Cash offers: Often, there are dozens of car buyers in UAE who will buy your kharab car in any condition, providing you with cash and peace of mind.

A Real Life Case Study

Let’s use Raheem as an example, a resident of Dubai, who has a 2012 Nissan Altima. His vehicle was misfiring because the engine had failed.

The shop quoted him AED 9,000 to replace the engine.

The market value of this same vehicle in good running condition was only AED12,000.

After the repair, this vehicle would still be a risk for other issues to arise.

Instead of paying that much money to repair the vehicle, Raheem decided to sell a kharab car in Dubai. He called a kharab car buyer. When he sold his kharab car, he received AED 8,000 cash, and he was able to upgrade to a used, reliable car.

Raheem saved money, did not have any more stress thinking about repair costs or whether the vehicle would break down again, and he had cash in hand.

How To Quickly Sell Your Kharab Car in Dubai

Selling your kharab or damaged car can be quick and easy. Read on to find out how to do it.

1. Find an Online Car Valuation

Most car buyers in Dubai have free online car valuation tools. Enter the details of your car, and you will have some idea of its worth.

2. Compare Offers from Kharab Car Buyers

Don't jump at the first offer. You will want to see several prices of kharab car buyers in Dubai to make sure you will get offered the best price.

3. Get Your Required Documents Together

Make sure you have your Emirates ID, car registration, and any other required documents. The easier you make it for the buyer, the quicker and easier the sale will be.

4. Finalize The Sale and Get Cash Fast

The greatest advantage of dealing with professional car buyers is that they pay cash on the spot. You could sell your kharab car in a matter of hours, and have none of the normal hassle that is often associated with selling a car.

Why Car Buyers In Dubai Want To Buy Kharab Cars

You may ask yourself, who would ever want to buy a broken or damaged car? The answer is in value recovery. Many buyers will either:

  • Use the parts for resale (as there is always a market for spares); or 
  • Recycle the car for scrap metal, or 
  • Repair and sell the vehicle in the used car market.
  • So even if your car does not run, you will still be able to get a fair offer.

To Repair or Sell: Which is best for you?

This  decision comes down to three factors: 

1. Repair Cost vs Value - If the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the vehicle, then selling is the best option. 

2. Age of the Vehicle - Typically, the older the vehicle, the more often it will break down; therefore, selling is the better option now. 

3. Future Plans - if you plan to upgrade soon, then there is no point wasting the money on repairs.

For the majority of drivers in Dubai, selling your car in UAE is the most convenient and profitable option.

Final Thoughts

Having a damaged or broken car can be very stressful, and it's important to remember that you don't have to feel trapped. If the cost of repairs is taking away from your budget, now might be the time to sell your kharab car in Dubai instead of getting it repaired. There are dependable car buyers in Sharjah who will buy your car for cash, and you eliminate future costs while getting into a better vehicle.

Let's remember, sometimes... when you own an old car... letting it go may not be a damage or loss but a prudent financial decision.

FAQs

1. Can I sell my kharab car in Dubai if it doesn’t drive?

Yes, many kharab car buyers buy cars in any condition, and non-driving condition.

2. How much cash can I expect for my kharab car?

This depends on the make, model, age, and condition. You can receive an online valuation for a more precise estimate.

3. Do I need to mend my car before selling?

No. In fact, most car buyers in Dubai prefer if they buy cars “as is” rather than repaired.

4. How long does it take to sell my car in Dubai?

With professional buyers, you can sell your car for cash in 24 hours, in some cases, the same day.

5. Who buys kharab cars in Dubai?

There are specialized car buyers in Dubai who will buy used, junk, damaged, and scrap cars. They will provide reasonable estimates and instant cash.