The primary way the government "buys" your car is through , which provide financial incentives to remove older, high-polluting vehicles from the road. In California, this is managed by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) under the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP). Vehicle Retirement Program Summary
To qualify for a government buyout in California, you and your vehicle must typically meet several criteria: government buys your car
Most participants must provide proof of a failed biennial smog check. Low-income applicants may be eligible even if the vehicle passed its most recent test. The primary way the government "buys" your car
You must be the registered owner with a title issued in your name. government buys your car
How to claim a clean vehicle tax credit | Internal Revenue Service