Selling your car can feel like navigating a maze. Where do you start? How do you get the best price? And how do you avoid the headaches and scams? Fortunately, the internet has revolutionized the car selling process, offering numerous platforms to connect sellers with buyers quickly and efficiently. Whether you’re looking for a fast cash offer, aiming for top dollar in a private sale, or need to offload a less-than-perfect vehicle, knowing the Best Websites To Sell Cars is crucial.
This guide dives deep into the leading online car selling platforms of 2024, providing a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore websites that offer instant cash offers, platforms for private sales, and specialized sites for older or damaged vehicles. Our expert review will equip you with the knowledge to confidently choose the right platform, ensuring you get the best possible deal with minimal stress.
Discovering the Best Online Car Buyers
The digital marketplace for cars is booming, and several websites stand out for streamlining the selling process. Our top recommendations for online car buyers are Cars.com, Carvana, and CarBrain. Each platform caters to different needs and priorities, ensuring there’s a solution for every seller.
| Website | Our Award | Overall Rating | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cars.com | Editor’s Choice | 9.0 | Learn More |
| Carvana | Most Seamless Process | 8.9 | Get An Offer |
| CarBrain | Best for Reliable Pick-Up | 8.7 | Visit Site |
| Peddle | Great Choice for Older Vehicles | 8.7 | Get An Offer |
| TrueCar | Good for Quick, Fixed-Price Offers | 8.7 | Learn More |
| Copart | Quick Payments | 8.6 | Visit Site |
| CarMax | Great Value | 8.6 | Learn More |
| CarGurus | Easy-To-Use Platform | 8.5 | Learn More |
To rank these companies, we considered factors like industry standing, platform features, cash offer value, support services, and customer experience.
Let’s explore each of these top websites to sell a car in detail, helping you understand their strengths and choose the best fit for your needs. Note that while we obtained offers from each company, the vehicle used for quoting varied depending on the platform’s specialization, ensuring a fair assessment.
#1 Cars.com: Editor’s Choice for Online Car Sales
Overall Rating: 9.0/10
BBB Rating: A+
Instant Offer: Yes
Offer Rating: 9.3/10
Pros:
- Instant offer ranges with competitive values.
- Strong industry reputation and established brand since 1998.
- Flexible selling options: to dealerships or private buyers.
- High Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and accreditation, indicating commitment to customer satisfaction.
Cons:
- Selling process can vary depending on the specific dealership involved.
- Some customers reported dealerships adding unexpected fees.
Cars.com earns our top recommendation as the best website to sell your car online due to its established history, versatile platform, and strong customer service reputation. With over two decades in the industry, Cars.com is a trusted name for both buyers and sellers. The platform offers two primary routes for selling your vehicle: leveraging their extensive dealership network or listing your car for private sale directly on Cars.com. Cars.com’s A+ BBB rating and accreditation demonstrate their commitment to resolving customer concerns and fostering trust.
Selling Options with Cars.com:
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Dealership Offers: By entering your vehicle details, you’ll receive an instant cash offer range. If the range is appealing, you can proceed to redeem the offer at a participating dealership within the Cars.com network. This option allows for both outright sales and trade-ins.
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Private Sale Marketplace: Cars.com allows you to create a free listing to connect with private buyers in your area. This puts you in direct contact with potential purchasers, but it also requires you to manage interactions and ensure secure transactions.
Our experience with Cars.com’s instant offer process was quick and user-friendly. Starting the process requires either your license plate number or VIN. Instead of a fixed price, Cars.com provides a value range, reflecting that the final sale occurs through a dealership, which will determine the exact offer within that range.
When testing Cars.com, we received offer ranges for both 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 (KBB) values for the respective vehicles, suggesting competitive initial offers.
#2 Carvana: Most Seamless Online Car Selling Experience
Overall Rating: 8.9/10
BBB Rating: Not Rated (NR)
Instant Offer: Yes
Offer Rating: 8.6/10
Pros:
- Fully digital and exceptionally easy remote car selling process.
- Offers strong offer values, often competitive within the market.
- Trade-in option available, streamlining the upgrade process.
Cons:
- Lower Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating raises some customer service concerns.
- Not ideal for selling low-value or junk cars.
Carvana stands out as the best website to sell your car if convenience and a fully online experience are your top priorities. Carvana has become synonymous with online car selling, providing a completely digital process from initial quote to final sale, all from the comfort of your home. Customer experiences are generally positive, reflected in over 10,600 Trustpilot reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5 stars.
While Carvana is not currently rated by the BBB, the company emphasizes its commitment to customer satisfaction. In a statement to us, Carvana highlighted its dedication to “delivering exceptional customer experiences” and pointed to “hundreds of thousands of real reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5.0 stars on Carvana.com” as evidence of their customer focus.
Carvana’s Streamlined Selling Process:
Carvana enables you to receive a cash offer, accept it, and potentially finalize the sale without leaving your home. A Carvana representative will conduct a vehicle inspection, which may occur at your residence, a Carvana location, or a mutually convenient spot.
Upon vehicle acceptance, you can choose to have it picked up or drop it off at a Carvana site. Payment is issued via certified check or direct deposit, typically taking two to five business days. Carvana operates 38 physical locations across the U.S., facilitating in-person sales or trade-ins. Trade-ins with Carvana function similarly to direct sales and can often be handled remotely.
Carvana offers are valid for seven days, and the company may send updated offers periodically if you don’t proceed with the sale immediately. Our experience confirms Carvana’s quick and easy cash offer process, making it a top contender among websites to sell cars.
For our test vehicle, a 2016 Chevy Equinox, Carvana offered $9,911. While on the lower end of offers received, it was still reasonable. Offers for a 2015 Toyota Camry ($11,860) were slightly above KBB value, and a 2015 Ford F-150 received an offer about $3,000 over market value, demonstrating varied but generally competitive pricing.
#3 CarBrain: Best for Selling Damaged Vehicles Online
Overall Rating: 8.7/10
BBB Rating: A
Instant Offer: Yes
Offer Rating: 8.0/10
Pros:
- Fast and efficient car selling process, often quicker than competitors.
- Accepts vehicles with mechanical and body damage, expanding selling options.
- Includes free towing with all offers, adding convenience and value.
Cons:
- Not the optimal choice for vehicles in excellent condition, may not yield top market value.
- Offer prices can fluctuate based on local demand, potentially affecting predictability.
CarBrain is the best website to sell a car that’s seen better days. If your vehicle has sustained damage, high repair costs, or is simply old and worn, CarBrain provides a specialized service. They are transparent about fees, ensuring you know exactly what you’ll receive for your car. CarBrain holds an A rating from the BBB and boasts a high customer review score of 4.9 stars on their website, indicating strong customer satisfaction.
Selling Your Damaged Car with CarBrain:
CarBrain simplifies selling damaged or totaled vehicles. Enter basic details about your car and its condition to receive an offer. Depending on the vehicle, you might get an instant offer or be contacted via email or phone.
CarBrain typically picks up vehicles within 24 to 48 hours after you accept an offer. You’ll need to provide keys and a signed title at pickup. While CarBrain may assist with title release in some cases, having a clean title is recommended for a smoother transaction.
For a 2011 Honda Civic LX Sedan with 124,000 miles and front bumper damage, CarBrain offered $1,230. This was below the KBB private sale value but reasonable for a company specializing in quick removal of damaged cars with free nationwide towing, making it a practical choice for sellers in this situation.
#4 Peddle: Top Choice for Selling Older Cars Online
Overall Rating: 8.7/10
BBB Rating: A+
Instant Offer: Yes
Offer Rating: 7.8/10
Pros:
- Generally positive customer reviews, indicating reliable service.
- Buys cars in any condition, even without titles, offering broad accessibility.
- Provides free towing from your location, adding significant convenience.
Cons:
- Offers are non-negotiable, limiting potential for maximizing price.
- Not the best option for newer vehicles, as offers may not be competitive.
- Does not purchase cars with outstanding loans, restricting some sellers.
Peddle is our recommended best website to sell a car if you have an older vehicle taking up space. Peddle specializes in buying older and junk cars nationwide, regardless of their running condition. If other platforms have deemed your car too old or damaged, Peddle is a valuable alternative. They claim to have purchased over 2 million vehicles, demonstrating their experience in this niche market.
Customer feedback for Peddle is largely positive, with a 4.6-star average rating on Trustpilot from over 120,000 reviews and an A+ rating from the BBB.
Selling Your Older Car with Peddle:
Peddle’s selling process is similar to Carvana’s. You input vehicle details, including make, model, year, and VIN. Since Peddle focuses on older and junk cars, they also inquire about tire inflation and missing parts.
After completing the questionnaire, you receive a cash offer valid for seven days. Acceptance triggers Peddle to dispatch a tow truck for vehicle pickup, often from your home. The driver conducts a quick inspection and pays you via check (or cash in some cases).
Peddle’s questionnaire is more detailed than some competitors, but the online experience remains user-friendly, with helpful information and examples provided throughout.
For a 2011 Honda Civic LX Sedan with 124,000 miles, Peddle offered $1,325, slightly higher than CarBrain’s offer. We also received offers for significantly older vehicles: $820 for a 2007 Toyota Camry (250,000 miles) and $400 for a 2004 Nissan Altima (250,000 miles), showcasing their willingness to buy older, higher-mileage cars. While offers may not be top dollar, the convenience of selling a junk car without personal effort enhances the value.
#5 TrueCar: Ideal for Quick, Fixed-Price Car Sale Offers
Overall Rating: 8.7/10
BBB Rating: A+
Instant Offer: Yes
Offer Rating: 9.2/10
Pros:
- Provides fast and transparent price offers, eliminating guesswork.
- Holds an A+ rating from the BBB, indicating strong business practices.
- Positive online customer reviews, reflecting customer satisfaction.
Cons:
- No private sale option available through the platform.
- Requires contact information to access offers, potentially leading to dealer outreach.
- Deals must be finalized with a dealership sales representative, adding a step to the process.
TrueCar is the best website to sell your car if you prioritize selling to a local dealership quickly and potentially trading it in. TrueCar partners with over 13,000 dealerships nationwide, facilitating both car buying and selling. Their platform includes useful tools like car affordability and loan calculators. TrueCar maintains an A+ BBB rating and a 4.2-star customer review score on the BBB.
TrueCar’s Fixed-Price Offer System:
Similar to Cars.com, TrueCar provides online offers that are redeemed at dealerships. However, TrueCar’s TrueTrade™ offer is fixed and valid for three days, providing price certainty when you visit the dealer.
TrueCar’s valuation process involves detailed questions about aftermarket parts, accident history, optional equipment, mechanical issues, and interior condition. Contact information is required before viewing the offer, so be prepared for potential contact from local dealerships.
In our tests, TrueCar offered $14,525 for a 2015 Ford F-150, about $600 below KBB trade-in value, and $11,984 for a 2015 Toyota Camry, roughly $200 above KBB trade value. While not the highest offers, TrueCar is a reliable platform for securing a fixed-price offer when selling your car to a dealership.
#6 Copart: Fast Payments for Cars in Any Condition
Overall Rating: 8.6/10
BBB Rating: A+
Instant Offer: Yes
Offer Rating: 6.0/10
Pros:
- Offers fast payments upon vehicle pickup, often immediate.
- Vehicle pickups are typically scheduled within 24 to 48 hours, ensuring speed.
- Purchases cars in any condition, including damaged or non-running.
Cons:
- Website is less user-friendly compared to competitors, potentially less intuitive.
- Many fees are associated for buyers on their auction platform, though less relevant for sellers.
Copart is another solid option for selling older cars, regardless of their operational status. Copart operates auto industry auctions and also directly purchases older vehicles from consumers nationwide. It’s a good choice if you’re looking to scrap a car for cash. Copart also owns CashForCars.com, another car buying service. Copart’s A+ BBB rating indicates its commitment to resolving customer issues.
Selling to Copart for Quick Cash:
Copart offers instant cash offers through their online form. Start by entering your VIN or vehicle details. While the online calculator works for most vehicles, some cases may require representative review.
In most situations, you’ll receive an instant offer. Upon acceptance, Copart arranges for a tow truck to pick up your car, often from your home. The driver performs a quick inspection to verify the car’s condition. Discrepancies, like missing catalytic converters or door panels, can reduce the final payment.
Our experience found Copart’s online calculator slightly less intuitive than some competitors. While towing is free, some reviewers have reported longer-than-expected wait times for pickup.
Copart offered $847 for a 2007 Toyota Camry with 250,000 miles in our test. This was marginally higher than Peddle’s offer. Given the close offer values, both are viable choices for selling older vehicles, with Copart emphasizing quick payment.
#7 CarMax: Great Value for Used Cars
Overall Rating: 8.6/10
BBB Rating: A+
Instant Offer: Yes
Offer Rating: 9.6/10
Pros:
- Provides easy and instant online cash offers for quick valuation.
- Pays by check on the same day of the sale, ensuring fast payment.
- Offers high offer values compared to many online options, maximizing returns.
Cons:
- Requires an in-person visit to a CarMax location to finalize the sale.
- Not suitable for selling junk cars or vehicles in very poor condition.
CarMax consistently provided the highest offers among the car selling websites we evaluated, particularly for our 2016 Chevy Equinox. If maximizing your vehicle’s selling price is paramount, CarMax is a strong contender. Established in 1993, CarMax has an A+ BBB rating, reflecting its long-standing reputation.
Selling Your Used Car to CarMax:
CarMax operates somewhat differently; you can’t complete the entire sale online. You obtain an instant cash offer online, but you must visit a CarMax location to finalize the transaction. Offers are valid for seven days.
The offer is subject to an on-site inspection, which is typically quick and straightforward if your initial vehicle description was accurate. CarMax allows both direct sales and trade-ins. They can handle sales even if you have an existing auto loan, requiring you to provide payoff information from your lender.
CarMax locations are not available in Alaska, Arkansas, Hawaii, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, D.C., West Virginia, and Wyoming.
One team member’s personal experience selling to CarMax highlighted a quick and easy process. After a brief inspection, the CarMax salesperson finalized the offer and issued a check, even handling the payoff of the remaining auto loan balance and providing a check for the difference.
Our testing showed CarMax consistently offers excellent values for used cars. For instance, a 2017 Kia Sportage received a $11,400 offer, nearly $300 over KBB value, and the 2016 Chevy Equinox received a $12,000 offer, about $800 above book value.
#8 CarGurus: User-Friendly Platform for Car Sales
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
BBB Rating: A+
Instant Offer: Yes
Offer Rating: 7.4/10
Pros:
- Features an Instant Market Value tool for quick price assessment.
- Offers are valid for seven days or 250 miles, providing flexibility.
- Prequalification for car buying is available, streamlining future purchases.
Cons:
- Offers are sometimes lower than Kelley Blue Book (KBB) value, requiring price comparison.
- Instant offers are not available in all states, limiting nationwide accessibility.
CarGurus excels in user experience, offering a convenient platform for selling your car. In most states, they provide instant offers and home pickup. CarGurus holds an A+ rating from the BBB and a 4.2-star customer review score, with many reviews praising the platform’s ease of use and helpful customer service.
Using CarGurus to Sell Your Car:
The CarGurus platform is intuitive and simple. Obtaining an instant offer took our team approximately five minutes. Unlike some sites, CarGurus requires a VIN or license plate number to generate an offer, rather than just make and model.
CarGurus offers are valid for seven days or 250 additional miles driven, whichever comes first. If you accept, you can schedule a vehicle pickup. While CarGurus partners with a dealer network, the home pickup option adds significant convenience.
Instant offers are not available in Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
CarGurus also allows private car listings for a $4.95 fee, potentially yielding better prices through direct buyer negotiation.
Offer values from CarGurus were mixed in our testing. A 2016 Chevy Equinox received an offer of $11,123, matching KBB value. However, offers for a 2015 Ford F-150 were about $4,000 over market value, while a Honda Civic’s offer was $3,500 below market value. This variability highlights the importance of comparing offers from multiple websites to sell cars to ensure you get the best deal.
Top Platforms for Private Party Car Sales
Beyond selling to dealerships or online car buying companies, private sales offer another avenue. Platforms range from basic listings on Facebook Marketplace to specialized classifieds on sites like Hemmings. These platforms were not directly compared to dealership sites due to their fundamentally different selling approach.
Selling Your Car on Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a popular and free platform for private car sales. Listing a car is free, as is communication with potential buyers. The platform requires users to have Facebook accounts, allowing for some buyer verification before meeting.
This can help mitigate scams, though they still occur. Be cautious of automated messages received immediately after listing, as these may indicate scams.
Include clear photos showcasing your car’s condition, including the engine. While you might achieve a price closer to market value, expect negotiation. Setting your price slightly above your target can accommodate haggling.
Selling Your Car on Craigslist
Craigslist is another widely used platform for private car sales. To enhance your listing, upload multiple photos and provide a detailed description with essential vehicle information.
While Craigslist vehicle listings now cost $5 (previously free), this fee aims to reduce scam listings. However, buyer scams remain a risk.
When selling on Craigslist, only accept the agreed-upon payment method and amount. Be wary of suspicious scenarios, such as overseas buyers sending relatives or overpayment schemes involving cashier’s checks.
While many successful sales occur on Craigslist, exercising caution and common sense is crucial to distinguish genuine buyers from scams and time-wasters. The platform offers anonymity through its email service.
Selling Your Car on eBay Motors
eBay Motors is a versatile platform for selling car parts and accessories, and also for reaching local car buyers, particularly in larger metropolitan areas. Detailed listings with relevant keywords can increase visibility. eBay Motors is effective for enthusiast vehicles. Listing fees start at $19, depending on the package, but there are no final value fees for vehicle sales like on other eBay categories.
eBay Motors is best suited for local sales, not nationwide transactions, unless you are experienced with eBay’s processes. In-person meetings with buyers are recommended. Remote sales on eBay introduce complexities like deposits and car shipping.
Bring a Trailer: Auction Site for Classic and Enthusiast Cars
Bring a Trailer (BaT) is ideal for selling classic vehicles or supercars. It’s an auction-style platform catering to automotive enthusiasts. BaT boasts over half a million registered bidders and offers shipping services in the contiguous 48 states.
Bring a Trailer fosters a strong community and offers features enhancing buying and selling. “Sniping protection” extends auction time by two minutes per bid, preventing last-second bid wins.
Given its focus on valuable vehicles, Bring a Trailer offers auction services starting at $99 for sellers. The “Classic” service is a standard seven-day listing with a BaT-written description. Optional services include professional photography ($330) and “white glove” service for ultra-high-value vehicles.
Hemmings Classic Auctions and Auto Classifieds
Hemmings is another prominent auction and classified site for classic cars, featuring categories like convertibles, muscle cars, sports cars, and exotic vehicles. You can create a seven-day auction or a six-month managed listing for $99.95, with buyers paying a 5% fee.
Classified ads, costing $149.95 for six months, allow direct buyer contact via call or email, with no buyer fees. Classified ads appear online and in Hemmings Motor News magazine.
Where Can You Sell Your Car Online? Understanding Your Options
To help you compare, we’ve summarized the main options for selling your vehicle online. Each has benefits and drawbacks, depending on your priorities.
Websites That Buy Cars: Convenience and Speed
Selling to an online car buyer is often the easiest and most stress-free method. You provide vehicle information (VIN, condition, mileage), and typically receive an instant offer, finalized upon inspection. If the inspection matches your description, you receive payment, and the car is usually transported for free.
This is ideal for quick and hassle-free sales. However, offers from these companies are generally lower than private sale prices and often non-negotiable. Despite this, offers may be better than junkyard prices when selling a junk car for cash.
Key Features of Good Online Car Dealers:
- Customer Reviews: Start by comparing customer ratings for selling services and overall value.
- Vehicle Offers: Look for easy online quote tools to compare valuations across companies.
- Services Offered: Consider services like free vehicle pickup, at-home inspections, and drop-off options for convenience.
- Industry Reputation: High ratings from organizations like the BBB indicate trustworthiness.
Platforms for Private Party Car Sales: Maximize Price
Private sale platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay Motors allow you to sell directly to individuals, potentially yielding full market value. This is especially true for sought-after makes and models.
Companies like Carvana resell your car for profit, offering trade-in value, which is lower than market value. Private buyers, intending to use the car personally, are often willing to pay closer to market value.
Important Considerations for Private Vehicle Sales:
- Listing Fees: Expect to pay $5-$10 for listings, or a small percentage as a seller’s fee, depending on the platform. Facebook Marketplace is a notable free option. Classic car listings can cost $100+.
- Safety: Exercise caution when meeting strangers. Bring a friend or meet in a public place. Keep test drives short and local.
- Preparation: Cleaning your car and addressing minor mechanical issues can increase its appeal and price. Gather maintenance records.
- Bill of Sale: Obtain a bill of sale for transaction records and proof of sale.
- Scams: Be wary of overpayment scams (cashier’s checks), foreign buyers, and reluctance to meet in person.
- Time to Sell: Finding the right buyer can take time. Detailed listings with photos and vehicle history reports can expedite the process.
How To Sell a Car Online for the Best Price: A Step-by-Step Guide
Selling a car online can be daunting. Follow these steps to maximize your price and streamline the process.
1. Gather Vehicle Details
Collect essential vehicle information and documents:
- Make
- Model
- VIN number
- Vehicle title
- Year of manufacture
- Accident history
- Current condition
- Necessary repairs/replacements
- Aftermarket modifications
- Factory or extended warranty documentation
Obtain a free vehicle history report from providers like Carfax for comprehensive information.
2. Fix and Clean Your Car
Clean your vehicle thoroughly and address any necessary repairs or maintenance. Routine maintenance and minor repairs can significantly increase your car’s appeal and value.
Prioritize essential repairs like brakes, tires, or lights. For major repairs, assess if the return justifies the investment, or if selling to junk car buyers is more practical. Use resources like RepairPal.com to estimate repair costs.
3. Take Detailed Photos
High-quality photos are crucial, serving as a visual resume for your car. Capture images of all sides of the exterior and interior, including back seats, engine compartment, trunk, and undercarriage. Use even lighting, plain backgrounds, and minimize shadows for optimal image quality.
4. Get and Compare Online Car Offers
Utilize online platforms to obtain offers. Online car buyers provide quick offers. Compare pricing from multiple platforms. Private sales may take longer as you engage with individual buyers.
5. Complete the Vehicle Sale
Once you accept an offer, finalize the sale. For online dealers, much of the process is guided by the company. Private sales require handling title transfer, registration, and transfer fees yourself.
Can I Sell My Car Online Today? Addressing Common Questions
While online car selling is efficient, some situations may affect immediate sales.
Can You Sell Your Car With a Loan?
Yes, but your lender retains the title until the loan is paid off. If your sale price is less than your loan balance, you’ll need to cover the difference.
Research your car’s value beforehand to plan for potential shortfalls. Options include using savings, borrowing from family, or personal loans. If your sale price exceeds your loan balance, you can pay off the lender upon sale, and they will release the title.
What Do Lenders Require for a Private Sale?
Consult your lender about their private sale protocol when a loan is outstanding. Typically, both buyer and seller visit a bank or financial institution to verify payment and coordinate with the lender.
Should You Finance Negative Equity?
Some dealers allow “rolling over” negative equity (owing more than the car’s worth) into a new car loan. However, this is not recommended, as it can lead to owing more than the new car’s value initially.
Can You Sell a Car Without a Title?
Generally, no. Selling without a title depends on state regulations. You usually need to request a replacement title. However, for classic cars, a bill of sale may suffice for proof of ownership.
Can I Sell My Car Back to the Dealership?
Yes, dealerships often buy used cars, especially in current market conditions. You can trade it in or sell it outright for cash.
Before visiting a dealer, determine your car’s fair market value using resources like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to inform your negotiations.
Where Can I Sell Car Parts for Cash?
For junk cars, selling parts separately is an option. After removing valuable components (engine, battery, GPS), consider:
- Junkyards: Quick and easy, but lower prices.
- Scrap metal yards: Focus on metal value; potentially better offers.
- Online listing platforms (Amazon, Walmart, eBay): Maximize prices for individual parts.
- Auto shops and stores: Local businesses may buy parts.
Best Websites To Sell Your Car: Final Recommendations
For ease of use and competitive cash offers, Cars.com is our top pick for selling your car online quickly. Facebook Marketplace is excellent for local private sales, and Bring a Trailer is the best choice for classic car auctions.
Great Choice for Older Vehicles 833-672-0583 Get an Offer On Peddle’s Website
Featured Partner 321-340-6624 Get an Offer On Wheelzy’s Website
Best for Reliable Pick-Up 844-596-7477 Get an Offer On Carbrain’s Website
Car Selling Websites: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which website is the best for selling a used car?
Cars.com is our top choice for selling used cars online. Its instant cash offer system and private listing options cater to various seller needs.
Which online car buyer pays the most?
CarMax provided the highest offers in our research, earning it the “Best Value” designation for online car buyers.
How can I avoid scams when selling my car online?
Accept only the agreed-upon payment method and amount. Be wary of overpayments, cashier’s checks, and out-of-state buyers sending representatives. Meet in safe, public locations for transactions.
What is the largest online used car retailer?
CarMax is the largest, with $29.7 billion in revenue in 2022. Carvana is second largest, with $13.6 billion revenue in 2022.
How do I find the value of my car?
Kelley Blue Book (KBB) is the industry standard. Edmunds, Carfax, and TrueCar are also reliable resources.
Can I negotiate offers from online car buying websites?
Generally, no. Companies like Carvana and CarMax offer “haggle-free” prices, meaning offers are typically non-negotiable.
Are there platforms that broker private car sales to ensure safety?
Autotrader Private Seller Exchange brokers private sales for a fee, managing communication, offers, and paperwork for safer transactions.
Our Methodology for Evaluating Car Selling Websites
Our rankings are based on a comprehensive rating system evaluating platforms across five key areas:
- Pricing and Financing (30%): Secret shopper analysis comparing offer prices across vehicle types and platforms. Evaluation of fees and financing options.
- Support (30%): Assessment of transaction support, including free pickup, payment speed, delivery options, and vehicle inspection processes.
- Platform (15%): Evaluation of platform features like instant offers, sales options, and vehicle selection.
- Customer Experience (15%): Analysis of customer satisfaction ratings on BBB and Trustpilot, and our team’s interaction experience.
- Industry Standing (10%): Consideration of industry expert ratings and company longevity.
Data accurate at time of publication.
For feedback or questions about this article, please email our team at [email protected].
