Apply online through the BAR website , wait for approval, and take the vehicle to a contracted dismantler. 2. Local Air District Vehicle Buy Back Programs
Vehicle must be operable (it must be able to start and drive on its own power to a dismantler). The applicant must be the registered owner.
Vehicle must be registered in California for the past 24 months.
As of 2026, California offers several "car buy back" or "vehicle retirement" programs designed to remove older, high-polluting vehicles from the road and improve air quality. The primary statewide program is administered by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), along with regional programs operated by local Air Districts.
California State Car Buy Back Program ✅
Apply online through the BAR website , wait for approval, and take the vehicle to a contracted dismantler. 2. Local Air District Vehicle Buy Back Programs
Vehicle must be operable (it must be able to start and drive on its own power to a dismantler). The applicant must be the registered owner.
Vehicle must be registered in California for the past 24 months.
As of 2026, California offers several "car buy back" or "vehicle retirement" programs designed to remove older, high-polluting vehicles from the road and improve air quality. The primary statewide program is administered by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), along with regional programs operated by local Air Districts.