What are some car buyback programs?

The states of California and Texas operate buyback programs for older vehicles. Certain vehicle manufacturers, such as GM and Hyundai, have at times also operated buyback programs for their own models of vehicles.

California residents can get $1,000 for certain vehicles that fail the state's required smog check. Vehicles that are registered in certain parts of the San Francisco Bay Area that were made in 1994 or earlier may also be eligible for the same amount.

In Texas, residents of Dallas/Fort Worth and Austin may be able to trade in their vehicles for $3,500 toward the purchase of a vehicle that is three years old or newer under the Drive A Clean Machine program.