Selling your used car can often feel like navigating a maze. From endless paperwork to the uncertainty of pricing, and the hassle of dealing with potential buyers, the traditional car selling process can be time-consuming and stressful. However, the digital age has revolutionized this experience, offering a plethora of online platforms designed to streamline and simplify selling your vehicle. If you’re looking to quickly and efficiently turn your used car into cash, understanding the landscape of online car selling is crucial. Whether you’re upgrading to a new model, downsizing your vehicles, or simply need to sell your current car, finding the Best Site To Sell Used Car online can make all the difference.
This comprehensive guide dives deep into the top websites that are transforming how people sell their used cars. We’ve meticulously researched and analyzed a range of platforms, from instant offer sites that buy your car directly to marketplaces connecting you with private buyers. We’ll equip you with the knowledge to choose the platform that best suits your needs, whether you prioritize speed, maximizing your profit, or selling a car in less-than-perfect condition. Let’s explore the leading options and help you determine the best site to sell used car for your specific situation.
Top Online Car Buying Websites – Get Instant Offers
For sellers prioritizing speed and convenience, online car buying websites offer a compelling solution. These platforms provide instant offers, often sight-unseen, streamlining the selling process down to a few clicks and a vehicle pickup. While you might sacrifice a bit on maximizing your potential profit compared to private sales, the ease and speed are unmatched. Here are our top picks for online car buyers:
#1 Cars.com: Editor’s Choice for Overall Best Site to Sell Your Car
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Overall Rating: 9.0/10
Cars.com stands out as our top recommendation for the best site to sell your used car online. With a history dating back to 1998, Cars.com has solidified its reputation as a reliable and user-friendly platform for both buyers and sellers. Its A+ rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) underscore its commitment to customer satisfaction and ethical business practices. Cars.com offers a unique dual approach to selling: you can either receive an instant cash offer from dealerships within their extensive network or list your vehicle on their marketplace for private sale.
Pros:
- Instant Offer Ranges with Competitive Values: Cars.com provides instant offer ranges, giving you a strong initial estimate of your car’s worth. These ranges are generally competitive and often align with or exceed Kelley Blue Book (KBB) values.
- Established Industry Reputation: As a long-standing and well-known name in the automotive industry, Cars.com offers a trustworthy and secure selling environment.
- Flexible Selling Options: Whether you prefer the speed of selling to a dealership or the potential for a higher price through a private sale, Cars.com caters to both preferences.
Cons:
- Dealership-Dependent Selling Process: If you choose the instant offer route, the final selling process and experience will be managed by the partnering dealership, which can vary in terms of service quality and potential fees.
- Possible Hidden Dealership Fees: Some users have reported encountering unexpected fees or charges from dealerships when finalizing the sale, so it’s important to clarify all costs upfront.
Selling Experience:
Cars.com simplifies the process with an intuitive online platform. To begin, you’ll need to provide basic vehicle information, including your license plate or VIN. The platform then generates an instant cash offer range. If you accept, Cars.com connects you with a local dealership within their network to finalize the transaction. You have the flexibility to either sell your car outright for cash or trade it in towards a new vehicle. Alternatively, you can opt for a free private listing on the Cars.com marketplace, reaching a wide pool of potential buyers in your area.
Offer Examples:
Our team tested Cars.com and received offer ranges for a 2015 Ford F-150 Super Cab ($14,075 – $16,175) and a 2015 Toyota Camry ($9,925 – $12,025). Notably, both ranges exceeded the Kelley Blue Book values for these vehicles at the time, highlighting Cars.com’s potential for securing a strong offer.
#2 Carvana: Best for a Seamless and Contactless Selling Experience
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Overall Rating: 8.9/10
Carvana has become synonymous with online car selling, largely due to its fully digital, end-to-end service. If you value convenience and a completely contactless selling experience, Carvana is a leading contender for the best site to sell used car. Carvana boasts a strong customer satisfaction record, with over 10,600 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot. While currently unrated by the BBB, Carvana emphasizes its commitment to customer service, addressing concerns and striving for positive experiences.
Pros:
- Easiest Remote Car Selling Process: Carvana offers a truly seamless and fully online selling experience. From getting an offer to finalizing the sale, you can manage the entire process from the comfort of your home.
- Competitive Offer Values: Carvana generally provides fair and competitive offers for used vehicles.
- Trade-In Option Available: You can also trade in your vehicle with Carvana, applying its value towards the purchase of another car from their extensive online inventory.
Cons:
- BBB Rating Concerns: Carvana currently lacks a BBB rating, which might be a concern for some sellers who prioritize BBB accreditation.
- Not Ideal for Junk Cars: Carvana primarily focuses on purchasing vehicles in relatively good condition and may not be the best option for selling very old, damaged, or low-value cars.
Selling Experience:
Carvana’s process is designed for ultimate convenience. You start by entering your vehicle details online to receive an instant cash offer. If you accept, Carvana schedules a vehicle inspection, which can often be done at your home, a Carvana location, or a convenient midpoint. Upon successful inspection, you can choose to have your car picked up or drop it off at a Carvana site. Payment is issued via certified check or direct deposit, typically within two to five business days. Carvana also operates physical locations in 38 states, offering in-person selling or trade-in options.
Offer Examples:
In our tests, Carvana offered $9,911 for a 2016 Chevy Equinox, which was within the reasonable range of offers received. For a 2015 Toyota Camry, the offer was $11,860, slightly above the KBB value. Interestingly, Carvana offered approximately $3,000 over market value for a 2015 Ford F-150, indicating potential for above-average offers on certain models.
#3 CarBrain: Top Choice for Selling Damaged or Older Vehicles
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Overall Rating: 8.7/10
If your used car has seen better days – perhaps it’s damaged, has mechanical issues, or high repair costs – CarBrain emerges as the best site to sell used car in such condition. CarBrain specializes in buying damaged, non-running, and problem vehicles. The company holds an A rating from the BBB and boasts a high customer review score of 4.9 stars on their website, reflecting positive experiences and transparent practices. CarBrain distinguishes itself with its no-hidden-fees policy, ensuring you know exactly what you’ll receive for your car.
Pros:
- Quick and Efficient Selling Process: CarBrain is known for its fast and streamlined process, enabling you to sell your car quickly, often within 24 to 48 hours.
- Accepts Damaged and Problem Cars: CarBrain’s core strength lies in purchasing vehicles with mechanical damage, body damage, or those considered totaled, expanding options for sellers with less-than-perfect cars.
- Free Towing Included: All CarBrain offers include free towing, eliminating an additional cost and logistical hurdle for sellers, especially those with non-running vehicles.
Cons:
- Not Optimized for Cars in Good Condition: If your car is in excellent condition, CarBrain might not be the optimal choice as their offers are tailored for damaged or older vehicles, potentially resulting in a lower offer than other platforms.
- Price Fluctuations Based on Local Demand: CarBrain’s pricing can be influenced by local market demand for parts and scrap metal, leading to potential offer variations depending on your location.
Selling Experience:
CarBrain simplifies selling a damaged or totaled car. You provide basic vehicle details and condition information through their online platform. Based on this, you’ll receive an instant offer or be contacted via email or phone, depending on your car’s specifics. Upon accepting an offer, CarBrain typically picks up the vehicle within 24 to 48 hours after you’ve signed the offer. Payment is made at pickup in exchange for the keys and a signed title. While CarBrain can sometimes assist with title release, having a clean title readily available is recommended for a smoother transaction.
Offer Examples:
Our team received a CarBrain offer of $1,230 for a 2011 Honda Civic LX Sedan with 124,000 miles and front-left bumper damage. While lower than the KBB private sale value for a perfect condition model, this offer was reasonable for a damaged car and factored in the convenience of free towing and quick removal.
#4 Peddle: Excellent for Older Cars and Junk Vehicles
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Overall Rating: 8.7/10
For owners of older vehicles, particularly those considered “junk cars” or those no longer running, Peddle is a standout option and a strong contender for the best site to sell used car in this category. Peddle specializes in purchasing old, unwanted vehicles across the country, regardless of their condition or title status in many cases. Having bought over 2 million vehicles, Peddle has established itself as a reliable platform for sellers looking to dispose of older cars conveniently. Peddle boasts a 4.6-star average rating on Trustpilot from over 120,000 reviews and an A+ rating from the BBB, signaling strong customer satisfaction and trust.
Pros:
- Positive Customer Reviews: Peddle consistently receives positive reviews, highlighting its reliable service and customer-centric approach.
- Buys Cars in Any Condition, With or Without Title (in some cases): Peddle’s key advantage is its willingness to buy cars in virtually any condition, including those that are damaged, non-running, or even lack a title (depending on location and specific circumstances). This makes it an ideal solution for sellers facing challenges selling older or problem vehicles elsewhere.
- Free Towing Services: Peddle provides free towing from your location, further simplifying the process of selling an older, potentially immobile vehicle.
Cons:
- Non-Negotiable Offers: Peddle’s offers are typically firm and non-negotiable, which might be a drawback for sellers looking to haggle for a higher price.
- Not Ideal for Newer Cars: Peddle’s focus on older and junk cars means it may not provide the most competitive offers for newer vehicles in good condition.
- Does Not Buy Cars with Outstanding Loans: Peddle generally does not purchase vehicles with outstanding loans, limiting options for sellers who still owe money on their car.
Selling Experience:
Peddle’s selling process is straightforward and similar to Carvana’s. You input your vehicle’s information, including make, model, year, and VIN, into their online questionnaire. Given their focus on junk cars, Peddle’s questionnaire also includes details about the car’s condition, such as tire inflation and missing parts. Upon completion, you receive a cash offer valid for seven days. If accepted, Peddle dispatches a tow truck to pick up your vehicle. The driver conducts a quick inspection and then pays you via check (or cash in some instances).
Offer Examples:
Peddle offered our team $1,325 for a 2011 Honda Civic LX Sedan with 124,000 miles, slightly higher than CarBrain’s offer for the same damaged vehicle. Peddle also provided offers for even older vehicles: $820 for a 2007 Toyota Camry with 250,000 miles and $400 for a 2004 Nissan Altima with 250,000 miles, demonstrating their willingness to purchase very old, high-mileage cars.
#5 TrueCar: Best for Quick, Fixed-Price Offers from Dealerships
Overall Rating: 8.7/10
TrueCar distinguishes itself as the best site to sell used car when seeking quick, fixed-price offers specifically from dealerships. TrueCar partners with over 13,000 dealerships nationwide, connecting sellers with local buyers through its platform. TrueCar boasts an A+ rating from the BBB and a 4.2-star customer review score on the BBB, reflecting a strong track record of customer satisfaction and reliability. TrueCar’s platform is also equipped with helpful car shopping tools, including affordability and loan calculators, adding value for users considering both selling and buying.
Pros:
- Fast and Transparent Price Offers: TrueCar is known for providing quick and transparent price offers, giving sellers a clear understanding of their car’s value upfront.
- A+ BBB Rating: TrueCar’s A+ rating from the BBB signifies its commitment to ethical business practices and resolving customer concerns effectively.
- Strong Online Customer Reviews: Positive customer reviews further reinforce TrueCar’s reputation for reliable service and customer satisfaction.
Cons:
- No Private Sale Option: TrueCar focuses exclusively on connecting sellers with dealerships and does not offer a platform for private car sales.
- Contact Information Required for Offer: To access a TrueTrade™ offer, you must provide your contact information, which may lead to follow-up calls or texts from dealerships in your area.
- Deal Closure at Dealership: While the initial offer is generated online, the final sale and transaction must be completed at a participating dealership, requiring an in-person visit.
Selling Experience:
Selling your car through TrueCar involves an online offer process followed by an in-dealership transaction, similar to Cars.com’s dealership option. However, TrueCar’s TrueTrade™ offer stands out by being locked in and valid for three days, providing price certainty and eliminating concerns about price changes at the dealership. TrueCar’s valuation process is thorough, encompassing details like aftermarket parts, accident history, optional equipment, mechanical issues, and interior condition. After providing your vehicle information and contact details, you receive a guaranteed TrueTrade™ offer valid at participating dealerships.
Offer Examples:
Our team received a TrueCar offer of $14,525 for a 2015 Ford F-150, approximately $600 below the KBB trade-in value. For a 2015 Toyota Camry, the offer was $11,984, about $200 above KBB’s trade-in value. While offers might not always be the absolute highest, TrueCar provides a reliable and fixed-price selling experience with reputable dealerships.
#6 Copart: Fastest Payments for Your Used Car
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Overall Rating: 8.6/10
Copart stands out as the best site to sell used car when speed of payment is a top priority. Copart is primarily known for its online auto auctions catering to the automotive industry, but they also directly purchase older vehicles from consumers nationwide. If you’re looking to quickly “scrap a car for cash” or sell an older vehicle that may not be running, Copart is a viable option. Copart also owns CashForCars.com, another platform for buying cars directly from consumers. Copart holds an A+ rating from the BBB, demonstrating its commitment to resolving customer issues and maintaining a trustworthy platform.
Pros:
- Fast Payments Upon Vehicle Pickup: Copart distinguishes itself with its rapid payment processing. Sellers typically receive payment immediately upon vehicle pickup, offering exceptional speed and convenience.
- Quick Vehicle Pickup: Vehicle pickups are generally scheduled and completed within 24 to 48 hours of accepting an offer, ensuring a fast transaction.
- Buys Cars in Any Condition: Similar to Peddle and CarBrain, Copart purchases vehicles in any condition, including damaged, non-running, and older cars.
Cons:
- Less User-Friendly Website: Copart’s website is generally considered less intuitive and user-friendly compared to competitors, potentially making the initial offer process slightly less seamless.
- Fees for Buyers (Primarily Auction Side): While not directly impacting sellers, Copart’s auction platform is known for having numerous fees for buyers, which is worth noting in the broader context of their operations.
Selling Experience:
Copart provides an instant cash offer through their online form. You begin by entering your VIN or vehicle year, make, and model. While the online calculator works for most vehicles, some situations might require a representative to review your information. In most cases, you’ll receive an instant offer. Upon acceptance, Copart arranges for a tow truck to pick up your car from your home. The driver conducts a brief inspection to verify the car’s description. Note that discrepancies, such as missing parts like catalytic converters or door panels, can reduce the final payment.
Offer Examples:
We received a Copart offer of $847 for a 2007 Toyota Camry with 250,000 miles. This offer was slightly higher than Peddle’s offer for a similar vehicle, making both platforms comparable options for selling older, high-mileage cars.
#7 CarMax: Get the Highest Value for Your Used Vehicle
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Overall Rating: 8.6/10
CarMax consistently delivers strong offers and is often considered the best site to sell used car if maximizing your vehicle’s value is your primary goal. In our comparisons, CarMax provided the highest offer for a 2016 Chevy Equinox, underscoring its potential for delivering top dollar for used cars. CarMax boasts an A+ rating from the BBB and has been a reputable name in the used car industry since 1993.
Pros:
- Easy Instant Online Cash Offer: CarMax offers a straightforward and user-friendly online platform for obtaining an instant cash offer for your vehicle.
- Payment by Check on Sale Day: CarMax provides immediate payment via check on the day of the sale, offering quick and secure funds.
- High Offer Values: Compared to many other online car buying platforms, CarMax is known for providing consistently high offer values for used vehicles.
Cons:
- In-Person Visit Required: While you can initiate the process online and get an instant offer, finalizing the sale and completing the transaction necessitates visiting a physical CarMax location.
- Not Ideal for Junk Cars: CarMax primarily focuses on purchasing used cars in reasonably good condition and may not be the best option for selling junk cars or vehicles with significant damage.
Selling Experience:
CarMax operates slightly differently from purely online car buyers. You begin online by obtaining an instant cash offer, which is valid for seven days. However, to finalize the sale, you must take your car to a CarMax location for an inspection. In our experience, these inspections are typically quick and straightforward, aligning with the initial online assessment if you’ve provided accurate information. You can sell your car to CarMax outright or trade it in for another vehicle in their inventory. CarMax can handle sales even if you have an existing auto loan, requiring you to provide payoff information from your lender.
Offer Examples:
We found CarMax to offer consistently strong values for used cars. For a 2017 Kia Sportage, CarMax offered $11,400, almost $300 above KBB value. Similarly, the offer for a 2016 Chevy Equinox was $12,000, approximately $800 over book value, reinforcing CarMax’s reputation for competitive pricing.
#8 CarGurus: Most User-Friendly Platform for Selling Cars
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Overall Rating: 8.5/10
If ease of use and platform intuitiveness are paramount, CarGurus is the best site to sell used car in terms of user experience. CarGurus provides an instant offer service and, in many states, offers home vehicle pickup, combining convenience with a user-friendly online experience. CarGurus holds an A+ rating from the BBB and a 4.2-star customer review score, indicating strong customer satisfaction and platform reliability. Customer reviews frequently praise the platform’s ease of use and helpful customer service representatives.
Pros:
- Instant Market Value Tool: CarGurus provides a helpful Instant Market Value tool, giving sellers a quick estimate of their car’s worth.
- Offers Valid for Seven Days/250 Miles: CarGurus offers are valid for seven days or 250 miles, whichever comes first, providing a reasonable window for sellers to make a decision.
- Prequalification for Car Buying: CarGurus also offers prequalification for car buying, adding value for users looking to both sell and purchase a vehicle.
Cons:
- Offers Sometimes Lower Than KBB Value: While generally competitive, CarGurus offers can sometimes be lower than Kelley Blue Book values, so it’s wise to compare offers across multiple platforms.
- Instant Offers Not Available in All States: CarGurus’ instant offer and home pickup service is not available in all US states, limiting accessibility for some sellers.
Selling Experience:
CarGurus platform is designed for simplicity and ease of navigation. Obtaining an instant offer is a quick process, typically taking around five minutes. Unlike some other platforms, CarGurus requires either your VIN or license plate number to generate an offer, ensuring greater accuracy. Offers are valid for seven days or 250 miles. If you accept, you can schedule a vehicle pickup. While CarGurus partners with a dealer network, the home pickup option eliminates the need to visit a dealership in many cases. CarGurus also offers a private listing option for sellers seeking to maximize their return through direct sales.
Offer Examples:
CarGurus offered mixed results in our vehicle tests. For a 2016 Chevy Equinox, the offer was $11,123, matching the KBB value. However, for a 2015 Ford F-150, CarGurus offered approximately $4,000 over market value, but for a Honda Civic, the offer was $3,500 below market value. This variability highlights the importance of comparing offers from multiple platforms to secure the best possible price when selling your used car.
Best Platforms for Private Car Sales – Maximize Your Return
If maximizing your selling price is your priority, private car sales platforms offer the potential for a higher return compared to selling to dealerships or online car buyers. These platforms connect you directly with individual buyers, eliminating the intermediary and potentially capturing more of your car’s market value. Here are some of the top platforms for private car sales:
Facebook Marketplace: Reach Local Buyers for Free
Facebook Marketplace has emerged as a highly popular and accessible platform for private car sales, primarily due to its massive user base and free listing option. Listing your car on Facebook Marketplace allows you to reach a wide audience of local buyers within your community. The platform’s requirement for users to have Facebook accounts can offer a degree of transparency and allow sellers to research potential buyers before engaging.
Selling Tips for Facebook Marketplace:
- High-Quality Photos: Upload clear, well-lit photos showcasing your car’s condition from various angles, including the exterior, interior, and engine.
- Detailed Description: Provide a comprehensive description including all essential vehicle details, such as make, model, year, mileage, features, and any relevant history.
- Competitive Pricing: Research comparable listings on Facebook Marketplace and other platforms to price your car competitively while leaving room for negotiation.
- Be Cautious of Scams: Be wary of generic automated messages, overly eager buyers, and requests for payment methods other than cash or secure transfers. Meet in a public place for test drives and transactions.
Craigslist: Classic Platform for Local Private Sales
Craigslist remains a long-standing and widely recognized platform for local classifieds, including car sales. While it has a more basic interface compared to newer platforms, Craigslist still offers a substantial reach for connecting with local buyers interested in purchasing used cars privately. While listing a car on Craigslist was once free, there is now a nominal $5 fee in many areas, intended to reduce spam and scam listings.
Selling Tips for Craigslist:
- Multiple Photos: Include multiple clear photos of your car to enhance your listing’s appeal and provide visual information to potential buyers.
- Thorough Description: Write a detailed and honest description of your vehicle, highlighting its key features, condition, and any relevant information.
- Set a Firm Price (or be prepared to haggle): Decide on your desired selling price and clearly state it in your listing. Be prepared for potential buyers to negotiate.
- Prioritize Safety: Exercise caution when interacting with potential buyers on Craigslist. Communicate through the platform’s anonymous email system initially, and always meet in a public location for test drives and transactions. Accept only secure forms of payment, such as cash or verified cashier’s checks.
eBay Motors: Ideal for Reaching a Wider Audience
eBay Motors extends the reach of private car sales beyond local boundaries, providing access to a broader audience of potential buyers, particularly within larger metropolitan areas. While eBay is widely known for auctions, eBay Motors also supports fixed-price listings, offering flexibility for sellers. eBay Motors can be particularly effective for selling enthusiast vehicles or specialty cars that might attract buyers from a wider geographic area. Listing fees on eBay Motors start at $19 depending on the chosen package.
Selling Tips for eBay Motors:
- Detailed Listing with Keywords: Create a comprehensive listing incorporating relevant keywords that potential buyers might use when searching for cars like yours on eBay Motors.
- High-Quality Photos: Use numerous high-resolution photos showcasing your car’s condition and features from various angles.
- Local Focus (Generally Recommended): For most private car sales, focusing on local buyers is advisable. Specify local pickup in your listing to avoid the complexities of long-distance transactions.
- Be Cautious with Remote Sales: Selling a car remotely on eBay Motors can introduce complexities related to deposits, shipping, and potential buyer disputes. Proceed with caution and ensure secure payment methods if considering remote sales.
Bring a Trailer: Best for Selling Classic and Collector Cars
Bring a Trailer (BaT) has established itself as the premier online auction platform specifically for classic, collectible, and enthusiast vehicles. If you own a classic car, vintage model, sports car, or unique vehicle, Bring a Trailer is arguably the best site to sell used car of this type. BaT boasts a highly engaged community of car enthusiasts and collectors, ensuring your vehicle reaches a targeted and passionate audience. BaT offers auction-style listings with features like sniping protection to enhance the bidding process. Seller fees start at $99 for listing on Bring a Trailer.
Selling Tips for Bring a Trailer:
- Professional Presentation: Given BaT’s focus on premium vehicles, invest in professional-quality photography and a well-written, detailed description highlighting your car’s unique attributes, history, and provenance.
- Auction Format: Utilize BaT’s auction format to leverage competitive bidding and potentially maximize your selling price within the enthusiast market.
- Engage with the Community: Actively participate in the auction comments section, answering questions from potential bidders and providing additional information about your vehicle.
- Consider BaT’s Services: Explore BaT’s optional services, such as professional photography and white-glove service for ultra-high-value vehicles, to enhance your listing’s impact and appeal.
Hemmings Classic Auctions and Auto Classifieds
Hemmings is another respected and long-standing platform catering to the classic car community. Hemmings offers both auction services and classified listings, providing sellers with options for reaching classic car enthusiasts. Hemmings specializes in a wide range of classic vehicles, including convertibles, muscle cars, sports cars, exotic cars, and custom builds. Hemmings’ classified ads also appear in their print magazine, Hemmings Motor News, extending your reach to a traditional print audience. Listing options on Hemmings start at $99.95 for online auctions and classifieds.
Selling Tips for Hemmings:
- Targeted Category Selection: Choose the most relevant Hemmings category for your vehicle to ensure it’s seen by the most interested buyers within the classic car market.
- Detailed Description and History: Provide a comprehensive description emphasizing your car’s classic appeal, history, restoration details (if applicable), and any unique features.
- High-Quality Photography: Use clear, well-composed photos that highlight your car’s classic design, condition, and noteworthy details.
- Consider Classifieds for Direct Contact: For a more direct selling approach, consider Hemmings’ classified ad option, allowing interested buyers to contact you directly via phone or email.
Choosing the Right Platform: Online Car Buyers vs. Private Sales
Deciding between selling to an online car buyer or opting for a private sale platform hinges on your priorities as a seller. Each approach offers distinct advantages and disadvantages:
Online Car Buyers (e.g., Cars.com, Carvana, CarBrain, Peddle, TrueCar, Copart, CarMax, CarGurus)
Benefits:
- Speed and Convenience: Online car buyers prioritize speed and ease. The process is typically quick, often involving an instant online offer, minimal paperwork, and vehicle pickup.
- Hassle-Free Process: These platforms handle much of the legwork, including appraisals, paperwork, and transportation, making the selling process exceptionally convenient.
- Suitable for Quick Sale: If you need to sell your car rapidly, online car buyers offer a fast and efficient solution.
- Options for Damaged or Older Cars: Some online buyers, like CarBrain and Peddle, specialize in purchasing damaged, non-running, or older vehicles that might be challenging to sell privately.
Drawbacks:
- Lower Offer Prices: Convenience comes at a price. Online car buyers typically offer trade-in value, which is often lower than the potential market value you could achieve through a private sale.
- Non-Negotiable Offers (Generally): Offers from online car buyers are often firm and non-negotiable, limiting your ability to haggle for a higher price.
- Less Control Over the Sale: You have less control over the final selling price and terms compared to a private sale where you directly negotiate with the buyer.
Private Car Sales Platforms (e.g., Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay Motors, Bring a Trailer, Hemmings)
Benefits:
- Potential for Higher Selling Price: Private sales offer the opportunity to capture closer to your car’s full market value, potentially yielding a higher profit compared to selling to a dealer or online buyer.
- Negotiation Power: You have direct negotiation power with potential buyers, allowing you to haggle and potentially secure a better price.
- Direct Interaction with Buyers: You interact directly with potential buyers, building rapport and potentially finding a buyer who appreciates your car’s specific qualities.
- Wider Range of Vehicle Types: Private sale platforms can accommodate a broader spectrum of vehicle types, including enthusiast cars, classic vehicles, and modified cars that might not be as appealing to online car buyers.
Drawbacks:
- More Time-Consuming: Private sales typically require more time and effort. You’re responsible for listing your car, communicating with buyers, scheduling viewings and test drives, and handling paperwork.
- Requires More Effort and Marketing: You need to actively market your car, create compelling listings, take photos, and manage buyer inquiries.
- Potential Safety Concerns: Meeting with strangers for test drives and transactions introduces potential safety risks. Exercise caution and take safety precautions.
- Dealing with Scammers and Tire Kickers: Private sale platforms can attract scammers and non-serious buyers, requiring you to filter out unproductive inquiries.
Tips to Get the Best Price When Selling Your Car Online
Regardless of the platform you choose, maximizing your selling price requires preparation and strategic steps. Here are key tips to help you get the best price when selling your car online:
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Gather Vehicle Details and Documentation: Compile all essential information about your car, including:
- Make, Model, Year
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Vehicle Title
- Mileage
- Accident History (if any)
- Maintenance Records
- Warranty Information (if applicable)
- List of Features and Options
Having this information readily available will streamline the listing process and answer buyer inquiries effectively.
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Clean and Detail Your Car: A clean and well-presented car makes a strong first impression and can significantly impact perceived value.
- Thoroughly wash and wax the exterior.
- Clean and vacuum the interior, including carpets, seats, and dashboard.
- Clean windows and mirrors inside and out.
- Consider engine bay detailing for a polished look.
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Take High-Quality Photos: Visuals are crucial in online car sales. Capture clear, well-lit photos that showcase your car’s best features and condition.
- Take photos in natural daylight, avoiding harsh shadows.
- Photograph all sides of the exterior, including close-ups of wheels and tires.
- Capture interior shots from various angles, including front and back seats, dashboard, and cargo area.
- Include photos of the engine bay and trunk.
- Highlight any special features or upgrades with photos.
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Research and Compare Online Offers: Before committing to a single platform or offer, take the time to research and compare offers from multiple sources.
- Get instant offers from several online car buyers (Cars.com, Carvana, CarMax, etc.).
- Check Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and Edmunds for valuation estimates.
- Browse comparable listings on private sale platforms (Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay Motors) to gauge market value.
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Be Honest and Transparent in Your Listing: Accurately represent your car’s condition and history in your listing description. Honesty builds trust with potential buyers.
- Disclose any known mechanical issues, damage, or accident history.
- Provide accurate mileage and vehicle history information.
- Be upfront about any aftermarket modifications.
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Set a Competitive Price (with room for negotiation if desired): Based on your research, set a competitive asking price that reflects your car’s condition, mileage, and market value.
- Consider setting your price slightly above your target price if you’re open to negotiation.
- Clearly state if your price is firm or negotiable in your listing.
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Respond Promptly and Professionally to Inquiries: Respond to buyer inquiries quickly and professionally. Provide clear and concise answers to their questions.
- Be courteous and respectful in your communication.
- Schedule viewings and test drives promptly if selling privately.
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Prepare for Negotiation (if selling privately): If selling privately, be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers.
- Know your bottom-line price and be willing to walk away if offers are too low.
- Be reasonable and willing to compromise within a fair range.
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Choose a Secure Payment Method: When finalizing the sale, prioritize secure payment methods to avoid scams.
- Cash (for private sales, consider meeting at a bank for verification).
- Verified Cashier’s Check (verify authenticity with the issuing bank).
- Bank Wire Transfer.
- Avoid personal checks, money orders, and online payment platforms like PayPal for car sales due to potential fraud risks.
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Complete Necessary Paperwork: Ensure you complete all required paperwork accurately and legally to transfer ownership of your vehicle.
- Sign the title over to the buyer correctly.
- Prepare a Bill of Sale (for private sales).
- Notify your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) of the sale.
- Cancel your car insurance policy after the sale is finalized.
FAQs About Selling Your Car Online
Q: Which website is the best to sell a used car?
A: Cars.com is our top pick for the best website to sell a used car. It offers a user-friendly platform, options for both instant cash offers and private listings, and a strong industry reputation.
Q: Which online car buyer gives the most money?
A: According to our research, CarMax often provides the highest offers for used vehicles. In our tests, CarMax consistently offered top dollar compared to other online car buyers.
Q: How can I avoid scams when selling my car online?
A: To protect yourself from scams:
- Only accept payment in the agreed-upon amount and form.
- Be wary of buyers offering more than your asking price or using cashier’s checks for overpayment scams.
- Meet in a safe, public place for transactions.
- Avoid out-of-state buyers sending representatives.
Q: Who is the largest online used car retailer?
A: CarMax is the largest online used car retailer, followed by Carvana. CarMax reported $29.7 billion in revenue and sold approximately 810,000 used cars in its 2022 fiscal year.
Q: How do I find the value of my car before selling?
A: Kelley Blue Book (KBB) is the industry leader for car valuations. Other reputable sources include Edmunds, Carfax, and TrueCar. Many dealership websites also offer KBB valuation tools.
Q: Can I negotiate with online car buying websites like Carvana or CarMax?
A: Generally, no. Websites like Carvana and CarMax typically offer “haggle-free” cash offers that are non-negotiable. The initial offer is their best and final offer within the validity period.
Q: Is there a way to sell my car privately through Autotrader or Kelley Blue Book?
A: Autotrader offers a “Private Seller Exchange” service for a fee. This service allows you to list your car on Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book, with Autotrader brokering communication, offers, and paperwork for a safer and more structured private sale experience.
Our Methodology:
Our rankings of the best sites to sell your car are based on a comprehensive rating system evaluating various platforms across five key factors:
- Pricing and Financing (30%): We conduct secret shopper analyses to compare average prices for buying and selling across platforms, considering fees and financing options.
- Support (30%): We evaluate transaction support services, including vehicle pickup, payment speed, delivery options, and vehicle inspection processes.
- Platform (15%): We assess platform features, such as instant offers, sales options, vehicle selection, and user-friendliness.
- Customer Experience (15%): We analyze customer satisfaction ratings from the BBB and Trustpilot, along with our team’s direct experience interacting with each platform.
- Industry Standing (10%): We consider industry expert ratings and the company’s years in business to assess reputation and reliability.
Data accurate at time of publication
If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email our team at [email protected].
