Cash for Clunkers
The Cash for Clunkers or the Cars Allowance Rebate System (CARS) is a government program that helps you purchase a new fuel efficient vehicle when you trade in a less fuel efficient vehicle. The incentive is $3500 or $4500 based on difference in combined MPG from your old car.
The Basic Rules
Your Old CarYour New Car
- In drivable condition
- Continuously insured and registered to trade-in owner for the past one year
- Manufactured less than 25 years before date of trade in
- Combined MPG of 18 or less (does not apply to very large trucks and vans)
- Is new (legal title has not been transferred to anyone)
- MSRP of $45,000 or less
- Combined MPG of 22 or better (SUVs, Trucks and Vans have lower MPG requirements)
Other qualifications apply (Learn More)
Step 1 of 2 Find out if you qualify for the Cash for Clunkers Program
What car do you have?
Next Step:
Did you know that?
The CARS incentive is either $3,500 or $4,500. If your car is worth more than your eligible payout, you should consider selling it. Find trade-in-value »
Dealers get C4C Extention
The Transportation Department extended the deadline for auto dealers to submit their Cash for Clunkers deals.
President Signs Law
The new Cash for Clunkers plan offers vouchers of up to $4,500 to vehicle owners to trade in their old, gas-guzzling cars and trucks for new models that get better gas mileage.
Which Cars Qualify?
We've rounded up a list of cars from the most popular automakers, all of which qualify for Cash for Clunkers discounts.
Rules For Qualifying Old Cars
The Cash for Clunkers Law provides a $3,500 - $4,500 savings at the point of buying a new car. But, in order to qualify, your old car must meet certain criteria:
- Your vehicle must be less than 25 years old on the trade-in date
- Only purchase or lease of new vehicles qualify
- Generally, trade-in vehicles must get 18 or less MPG (some very large pick-up trucks and cargo vans have different requirements)
See a full list of rules: Cash for Clunkers Rules
Cash for Clunkers Q & A: Clunker FAQs
Top Qualifying New Vehicles
In your search for a new car to trade in your old "clunker," refer to our Cash for Clunkers buying guides
Official Government Links
Interested in learning more about the Car Allowance Rebate System (Cash for Clunkers) from the official U.S. Government resources? We've rounded up the top links here
Cash for Clunkers Updates
Stay up to date with all the happenings surrounding the government's popular "Cash for Clunkers" program.
Research a New Car
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