Operates an "Old-Vehicle Scrapping Program" for residents in the Greater Los Angeles area.
Managed by the BAR, this program provides varying incentive amounts based on household income:
For many buy-back programs, the vehicle must have passed its most recent required Smog Check. However, if a vehicle fails a biennial Smog Check, it may qualify for CAP retirement even if the owner does not meet low-income status.
The is more formally known as the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) Vehicle Retirement option , administered by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) . It is designed to improve air quality by incentivizing the permanent removal of high-polluting vehicles from California roadways.
Offers up to $2,000 for 2000 model year or older vehicles.
The California vehicle buy back initiative is a critical tool for fleet modernization. By turning "clunkers" into capital for residents, the state achieves a dual benefit: providing financial relief to citizens while systematically scrubbing the air of its most potent mobile pollutants. Voluntary Accelerated Vehicle Retirement Program (VAVR)
California has long been a leader in environmental policy, particularly concerning automotive emissions. A central pillar of this effort is the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) , often referred to as a "buy back" or "scrappage" program. By offering financial incentives to owners of older, less efficient vehicles, the state accelerates the removal of high-emitters that disproportionately contribute to ozone-forming pollutants and greenhouse gases.
The vehicle must have a clear California title free of any liens.