How much is a car battery worth for scrap in the UK?
Why battery scrap value varies
Car and vehicle batteries aren’t a single commodity — there are lead‑acid starter batteries, heavier industrial/tractor batteries, and lithium‑ion packs from hybrid & electric vehicles. Prices move daily because they depend on metal commodity prices (lead, lithium), recycling demand, and local market supply.
Key factors that affect price
- Type of battery: lead‑acid (most car starter batteries) vs lithium‑ion (EV/hybrid). Lead generally has an established scrap market; lithium pricing is more complex.
- Condition: intact, non‑leaking batteries fetch more than damaged or swollen units (damaged batteries can be refused by some yards).
- Weight & quantity: prices are normally per kilogram (or per tonne for large quantities). Bigger loads can attract bulk rates.
- Local market rates and timing: prices can vary between yards and across the UK based on local demand and transport costs.
Example guide prices (illustrative)
The table below gives example guide ranges to help you estimate — always contact us for a live quote, as prices change regularly.
| Battery type | Guide price (per kg) | Typical weight | Guide price (per battery) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead‑acid (small car starter) | £0.30 – £0.65 | 8–15 kg | £2.40 – £9.75 |
| Lead‑acid (heavy / truck) | £0.45 – £0.78 | 20–40 kg | £9.00 – £31.20 |
| Lithium‑ion (EV / traction) | £0.15 – £0.35 | 100–500 kg | £15 – £175 (very variable) |
Important: these figures are illustrative — we base our live prices on current commodity markets and the specific battery(s) you bring in. For accurate, up‑to‑the‑minute pricing call or request a quote.
How West Midlands Metals handles batteries
At our Birmingham yard we accept lead‑acid and many other battery types for recycling. Batteries are weighed on arrival and processed to recover lead and plastic safely. We comply with environmental and waste regulations and issue a weight ticket and payment immediately for cash or BACS where applicable.
Bring a few batteries?
Pop in during yard hours and we’ll weigh and pay you on the spot.
Got a large quantity?
Contact us for a bulk quote — we can arrange collections for commercial volumes.
Top tips to get the best price
- Sort batteries by type and keep lead‑acid separate from other chemistries.
- Don’t mix batteries with general waste or hazardous materials — bring them in safely.
- For large volumes, ask about bulk pricing or scheduled collections.
- Check live prices — markets move, and we’re always happy to provide a quote.
Questions? Visit our FAQs or contact us for a live price. West Midlands Metals is located near Birmingham City FC — open weekdays. Payments and acceptance are subject to current yard policy and environmental regulations.
This article is for guidance only and does not constitute a live quote. Prices shown are illustrative as at 17 November 2025.
