Bay Area Air Quality Car Buy Back May 2026

: For every vehicle retired, approximately 75 pounds of air pollution is prevented from entering the atmosphere annually.

Launched in 1996, the program addresses the reality that older vehicles—specifically those from model year 2000 and earlier—often lack modern emission control technologies. This causes them to contribute disproportionately to local air pollution, emitting significantly higher levels of fine particulate matter and ozone precursors than newer models. bay area air quality car buy back

To maintain relevance against rising vehicle values and economic shifts, the BAAQMD recently increased the standard incentive to for qualifying cars and small trucks. This expansion ensures the program remains a viable option for residents to voluntarily scrap vehicles that might otherwise remain in operation. Vehicle Buy Back Program : For every vehicle retired, approximately 75 pounds