Whether you’re looking to upgrade your ride or simply part ways with a vehicle you no longer need, knowing the best place to sell your vehicle is crucial for a smooth and profitable transaction. The digital age has revolutionized car selling, offering numerous online platforms alongside traditional methods. This guide, crafted by the auto experts at keyfobx.com, will navigate you through the top options, ensuring you make an informed decision and drive away with the best possible deal.
Navigating the Car Selling Landscape: Online vs. Private Sales
Selling your car can feel overwhelming with so many avenues available. Do you opt for the convenience of an online car buyer, or aim for potentially higher returns through a private sale? Both paths have their merits, and the ideal choice hinges on your priorities: speed and ease versus maximizing profit.
Online Car Buying Platforms: Convenience at Your Fingertips
Online car buyers have streamlined the selling process, offering instant quotes and often handling pickup and paperwork. These platforms are ideal if you prioritize a quick sale and a hassle-free experience. Let’s delve into some of the leading online car buyers:
#1 Cars.com: Editor’s Choice for Online Car Sales
Cars.com stands out as our top recommendation for the best place to sell your vehicle online. Established in 1998, Cars.com boasts a strong industry reputation and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), reflecting its commitment to customer satisfaction. What sets Cars.com apart is its dual approach: you can either sell directly to a dealership within their extensive network or list your vehicle on their private-sale marketplace.
Pros:
- Instant Offer Ranges: Provides estimated offer ranges, giving you a clear expectation upfront.
- Reputable Platform: Long-standing and trusted name in the automotive industry.
- Multiple Selling Options: Sell to dealerships or directly to private buyers through their marketplace.
Cons:
- Dealership Dependent Process: The final sale process and experience can vary depending on the specific dealership.
- Potential Dealership Fees: Some users have reported encountering hidden fees from certain dealerships.
Cars.com simplifies the initial steps. By entering your vehicle’s information, including license plate or VIN, you’ll receive an instant cash offer range. This range serves as a starting point when you connect with a local dealer in their network to finalize the sale or trade-in. Alternatively, their free marketplace allows you to create a listing and connect directly with potential private buyers in your area.
Our team tested Cars.com with a 2015 Ford F-150 Super Cab and a 2015 Toyota Camry, and the estimated ranges exceeded Kelley Blue Book (KBB) values for both vehicles, suggesting competitive initial offers.
#2 Carvana: The Most Seamless Online Selling Experience
If convenience is paramount, Carvana emerges as the Best Place To Sell Vehicle without leaving your home. Carvana has become synonymous with online car selling, offering a fully digital process from quote to sale. While not BBB accredited, Carvana boasts a strong 4.3-star average rating from over 10,600 reviews on Trustpilot, indicating widespread customer satisfaction with its ease of use.
Pros:
- Fully Digital Process: Offers a complete online selling experience from start to finish.
- Convenient Remote Selling: In many cases, you can sell your car without leaving your driveway.
- Trade-In Option: Allows for vehicle trade-ins, simplifying the upgrade process.
Cons:
- BBB Rating: Currently not rated by the Better Business Bureau.
- Not Ideal for Junk Cars: Primarily focused on vehicles with resale value, not the best for very old or damaged cars.
Carvana’s process is remarkably straightforward. After receiving and accepting an online offer, a Carvana representative will inspect your vehicle – this can occur 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. Payment is issued via certified check or direct deposit, typically within a few business days.
Carvana offered our team $9,911 for a 2016 Chevy Equinox, a competitive offer within the range of quotes received. For a 2015 Toyota Camry, the offer was $11,860, slightly above KBB value. Interestingly, Carvana offered around $3,000 over market value for a 2015 Ford F-150 in our tests.
#3 CarBrain: Your Go-To for Selling Damaged Vehicles
For vehicles that have seen better days, CarBrain is the best place to sell vehicle that might be considered damaged or in need of significant repairs. CarBrain specializes in buying cars with mechanical issues, body damage, or even totaled vehicles. They hold an A rating from the BBB and a high 4.9-star customer review score on their website, highlighting their reliability in this niche market.
Pros:
- Specializes in Damaged Cars: Accepts vehicles with mechanical and body damage that other platforms might reject.
- Fast and Simple Process: Offers a quick and easy selling experience.
- Free Towing Included: Offers complimentary towing with all accepted offers.
Cons:
- Not for Pristine Vehicles: Not the most competitive option for cars in excellent condition.
- Price Fluctuations: Offers can vary based on local demand for parts and scrap materials.
Selling a damaged car through CarBrain is a streamlined process. You simply provide details about your vehicle’s condition, and you can receive an instant offer or be contacted by their team. CarBrain typically arranges vehicle pickup within 24 to 48 hours after you accept an offer. They handle towing logistics and require the keys and a signed title at the time of pickup.
CarBrain quoted our team $1,230 for a 2011 Honda Civic LX Sedan with front-end damage and 124,000 miles. While lower than private sale value, it’s a reasonable offer considering they specialize in damaged cars and include free towing.
#4 Peddle: The Ideal Choice for Older Vehicles
If you’re looking to sell an older vehicle, especially one that might be considered a “junker,” Peddle is the best place to sell vehicle that might be aging or high-mileage. Peddle specializes in purchasing older and less-desirable vehicles, regardless of their running condition or title status in many cases. With an A+ BBB rating and a 4.6-star average from over 120,000 Trustpilot reviews, Peddle is a reputable option for this specific market segment.
Pros:
- Buys Older/Junk Cars: Accepts vehicles that may be too old or damaged for other platforms.
- Positive Customer Reviews: Generally receives positive feedback from users.
- Free Towing Service: Offers free vehicle pickup from your location.
Cons:
- Non-Negotiable Offers: Offers are typically firm and not open to negotiation.
- Not Optimized for Newer Cars: Not the best choice if you have a newer, high-value vehicle.
- Loan Restrictions: Generally does not purchase vehicles with outstanding loans.
Peddle’s selling process is similar to Carvana’s. You provide vehicle details online, including make, model, year, and VIN. Given their focus on older cars, they also inquire about tire inflation and missing parts. Upon completing the questionnaire, you’ll receive a seven-day guaranteed cash offer. If accepted, Peddle dispatches a tow truck for pickup, and payment is typically issued via check upon inspection at pickup.
Peddle offered our team $1,325 for the same 2011 Honda Civic LX Sedan used for CarBrain, slightly higher than CarBrain’s offer. They also provided offers for significantly older vehicles: $820 for a 2007 Toyota Camry with 250,000 miles and $400 for a 2004 Nissan Altima with 250,000 miles.
#5 TrueCar: For Quick, Fixed-Price Dealership Offers
TrueCar is the best place to sell vehicle if your priority is a quick, fixed-price offer from a local dealership. TrueCar partners with over 13,000 dealerships nationwide, facilitating both car buying and selling. They boast an A+ BBB rating and a 4.2-star customer review score on the BBB, indicating a solid track record in connecting sellers with dealerships.
Pros:
- Transparent and Fast Offers: Provides quick and transparent price offers.
- BBB Accredited: Holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
- Positive Online Reviews: Strong online customer reviews regarding their service.
Cons:
- No Private Sale Option: Exclusively connects sellers with dealerships, no private sale marketplace.
- Contact Information Required: Requires contact information to access the offer, leading to potential dealer outreach.
- Dealership Visit Required: Sale completion necessitates visiting a dealership to finalize the transaction.
TrueCar’s selling process is akin to Cars.com’s dealership option. You receive an online offer, but the TrueTrade™ offer is fixed and valid for three days, providing price certainty. TrueCar’s valuation process is thorough, considering factors like aftermarket parts, accident history, and vehicle condition. However, accessing the offer requires providing contact information, which may result in dealer follow-up.
TrueCar offered our team $14,525 for a 2015 Ford F-150, slightly below KBB trade-in value, and $11,984 for a 2015 Toyota Camry, slightly above KBB trade-in value. While offers might not be the absolute highest, TrueCar offers reliability and price certainty when selling to dealerships.
#6 Copart: Fast Payments for Vehicles in Any Condition
Copart is another viable best place to sell vehicle, especially if you prioritize quick payments and are selling an older car, potentially one that isn’t running. Copart operates auctions for the auto industry and also buys cars directly from consumers, including those looking to scrap their vehicles. They hold an A+ BBB rating, indicating their commitment to resolving customer issues.
Pros:
- Fast Payments: Provides rapid payment upon vehicle pickup.
- Quick Pickups: Vehicle pickups often occur within 24 to 48 hours.
- Accepts Cars in Any Condition: Purchases vehicles regardless of condition.
Cons:
- Less User-Friendly Platform: Website can be less intuitive compared to competitors.
- Buyer Fees: Primarily auction-focused, with fees geared towards buyers.
Copart offers instant cash offers through their online form. You input your VIN or vehicle details to initiate the process. In most cases, you’ll receive an instant offer. Upon acceptance, Copart schedules a tow truck for pickup. The driver will conduct a brief inspection to verify the vehicle’s condition. Payment is issued quickly upon pickup.
Copart offered our team $847 for a 2007 Toyota Camry with 250,000 miles, slightly higher than Peddle’s offer for the same vehicle. Both Copart and Peddle are solid options for selling older vehicles with a focus on convenience.
#7 CarMax: Maximize Value for Used Vehicles
For sellers aiming for the highest possible value for their used vehicles, CarMax is often considered the best place to sell vehicle for maximizing your return. CarMax is known for offering strong prices for used cars and holds an A+ BBB rating, reflecting their long-standing reputation and customer service.
Pros:
- High Offer Values: Consistently provides strong offer values compared to other online buyers.
- Instant Online Offers: Offers easy and instant online cash offers.
- Same-Day Payment: Pays by check on the day of the sale.
Cons:
- In-Person Visit Required: Requires visiting a CarMax location to finalize the sale.
- Not for Junk Cars: Not the optimal choice for vehicles with very low or scrap value.
CarMax’s process differs slightly from fully online buyers. While you can get an instant online offer valid for seven days, you must visit a CarMax location to complete the sale. The offer is contingent on an in-person inspection, which is generally quick and straightforward if your online description was accurate. CarMax can handle sales even if you have an existing auto loan, requiring payoff information from your lender.
CarMax offered our team $12,000 for a 2016 Chevy Equinox, almost $800 over KBB value, and $11,400 for a 2017 Kia Sportage, approximately $300 over KBB value, demonstrating their competitive offer strategy.
#8 CarGurus: User-Friendly Platform for Quick Offers
CarGurus is a user-friendly platform and a great best place to sell vehicle if platform ease of use and convenience are important factors. CarGurus offers instant offers and, in many states, will pick up your car from your home. They hold an A+ BBB rating and a 4.2-star customer review score, indicating a positive user experience overall.
Pros:
- Easy-to-Use Platform: Provides a simple and intuitive online selling experience.
- Instant Market Value Tool: Offers a helpful tool for assessing your car’s market value.
- Home Pickup Option: Offers vehicle pickup from your home in many locations.
Cons:
- Variable Offer Values: Offer values can sometimes be lower than KBB value.
- Limited Instant Offer Availability: Instant offers are not available in all states.
CarGurus’ platform is known for its simplicity. Obtaining an instant offer is a quick process, typically taking around five minutes. Offers are valid for seven days or 250 miles, whichever comes first. If you accept, you can schedule a vehicle pickup. While CarGurus partners with dealerships, the home pickup option provides added convenience. CarGurus also offers a private listing option for a small fee.
CarGurus’ offers in our tests were mixed. They offered $11,123 for a 2016 Chevy Equinox, matching KBB value, and significantly over market value for a 2015 Ford F-150, but under market value for a Honda Civic. This highlights the importance of comparing offers from multiple platforms.
Private Party Car Sales: Potentially Higher Returns
Beyond online car buyers, private party sales offer the potential to fetch a higher selling price, as you’re selling directly to another individual rather than a business aiming for resale profit. Here are some popular platforms for private car sales:
Facebook Marketplace: Leveraging Social Reach
Facebook Marketplace is a widely used and best place to sell vehicle privately, leveraging the platform’s vast user base. Listing on Facebook Marketplace is free, and communication with potential buyers is direct. The platform’s requirement for Facebook accounts can offer a degree of buyer verification, although caution is still advised.
Tips for Facebook Marketplace:
- High-Quality Photos: Use clear, well-lit photos showcasing your car’s condition, including the engine.
- Detailed Description: Provide comprehensive vehicle information in your listing.
- Price Strategically: Price slightly above your target to allow for negotiation.
- Be Scam Aware: Be wary of automated messages and overly enthusiastic initial inquiries, common scam tactics.
Craigslist: A Local Classifieds Staple
Craigslist remains a popular best place to sell vehicle privately, particularly for local sales. While listing a car on Craigslist now incurs a $5 fee (aimed at reducing scams), it still offers broad local reach.
Tips for Craigslist:
- Multiple Photos: Include multiple photos to enhance your listing’s appeal.
- Comprehensive Description: Provide a detailed and accurate vehicle description.
- Payment Caution: Never accept payment methods other than what you’ve specified.
- Scam Vigilance: Be alert for common Craigslist scams, such as overpayment attempts or buyers with elaborate stories.
eBay Motors: Reaching a Wider Audience
eBay Motors can be a valuable best place to sell vehicle, especially for reaching buyers in larger metropolitan areas. Detailed listings with relevant keywords are crucial for visibility. eBay Motors can be particularly effective for enthusiast vehicles. Listing fees start at $19 depending on the package, but there are no final value fees for vehicle sales.
Tips for eBay Motors:
- Detailed Listings: Create thorough listings with comprehensive vehicle information and keywords.
- Local Focus: Primarily recommended for local sales to avoid shipping complexities.
- In-Person Transactions: Prioritize in-person meetings and transactions.
Bring a Trailer: For Classic and Collector Cars
Bring a Trailer (BaT) is the best place to sell vehicle if you own a classic, vintage, or unique vehicle. BaT is an auction-style platform catering specifically to car enthusiasts and collectors. With a large registered bidder base and shipping services, BaT provides a specialized marketplace for valuable vehicles.
Features of Bring a Trailer:
- Auction Format: Utilizes an auction format to maximize potential sale price.
- Enthusiast Community: Attracts a dedicated community of car enthusiasts and collectors.
- Sniping Protection: Auction extension feature prevents last-second bid sniping.
- Auction Services: Offers various auction service packages starting at $99 for sellers.
Hemmings Classic Auctions and Auto Classifieds: Another Classic Car Haven
Hemmings is another established best place to sell vehicle in the classic car market, offering both auction and classified listing options. Hemmings caters to a wide range of classic vehicles, from convertibles to muscle cars and exotics.
Hemmings Options:
- Auction Listings: Seven-day auctions managed through the platform, with a 5% buyer’s fee.
- Classified Ads: Six-month classified listings, with direct buyer contact and no buyer fees.
- Print and Online Exposure: Classified ads appear both online and in Hemmings Motor News magazine.
Choosing Your Selling Path: Online Buyers vs. Private Sales
To summarize, deciding on the best place to sell vehicle depends on your priorities. Online car buyers offer speed and convenience, while private sales offer potential for higher returns but require more effort and time.
Websites That Buy Cars: Pros and Cons
Selling to online car buyers is often the easiest and most stress-free method. You provide vehicle information, receive an offer, and if accepted, the company often handles pickup and payment.
Benefits:
- Convenience: Fast and hassle-free selling process.
- Speed: Quick offers and often rapid vehicle pickup.
- Handles Logistics: Company typically manages paperwork and transportation.
Drawbacks:
- Lower Offers: Typically offer less than private sale market value.
- Non-Negotiable Prices: Offers are often fixed and not open to negotiation.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online Car Buyer:
- Customer Reviews: Assess company reputation and customer satisfaction through reviews.
- Offer Value: Compare offers from multiple platforms to ensure competitive pricing.
- Services Offered: Consider services like free pickup, at-home inspections, and payment speed.
- Industry Reputation: Look for companies with strong BBB ratings and industry standing.
Platforms for Private Party Car Sales: Pros and Cons
Private sales allow you to sell directly to another individual, potentially yielding a higher sale price.
Benefits:
- Higher Potential Price: Opportunity to achieve closer to full market value.
- Negotiation Potential: Ability to negotiate directly with buyers.
Drawbacks:
- More Effort: Requires more time and effort in listing, communication, and transactions.
- Safety Considerations: Requires caution when meeting with strangers.
- Listing Fees: Some platforms charge listing fees or seller’s fees.
- Time to Sale: Can take longer to find a buyer compared to instant online offers.
Key Considerations for Private Car Sales:
- Listing Costs: Factor in any listing fees associated with the platform.
- Safety Precautions: Prioritize safety when meeting with potential buyers (public locations, bring a friend).
- Car Preparation: Cleaning and minor repairs can enhance your car’s appeal and selling price.
- Bill of Sale: Use a bill of sale for transaction documentation.
- Scam Awareness: Be vigilant against common private sale scams.
- Time Investment: Be prepared for a potentially longer selling timeline.
Steps to Sell Your Car Online for the Best Price
To maximize your return when selling your car online, follow these recommended steps:
1. Gather Vehicle Details
Compile all necessary vehicle information, including:
- Make and Model
- VIN Number
- Vehicle Title
- Year of Manufacture
- Accident History
- Current Condition
- Repair Needs
- Aftermarket Modifications
- Warranty Documentation
Obtain a free vehicle history report from providers like Carfax to supplement your information.
2. Fix and Clean Your Car
Enhance your car’s appeal by cleaning it thoroughly and addressing any necessary minor repairs or maintenance items. Routine maintenance and minor fixes often yield a good return on investment. However, for severely damaged vehicles, selling to junk car buyers without repairs might be more practical. Research repair costs on sites like RepairPal.com to make informed decisions.
3. Take Detailed Photos
Capture high-quality photos from various angles, showcasing your car’s exterior, interior, engine compartment, trunk, and undercarriage. Use even lighting and plain backgrounds for optimal image quality.
4. Get and Compare Online Car Offers
Obtain quotes from multiple online car buyers to compare pricing. For private sales, this step involves listing your car and managing buyer inquiries, which may take longer.
5. Complete the Vehicle Sale
Once you’ve accepted an offer, finalize the sale. For online car buyers, the company will typically guide you through the process. For private sales, you’ll handle title transfer, registration, and payment directly with the buyer.
Addressing Common Car Selling Questions
Selling a Car With a Loan
If you have an outstanding loan, your lender holds the title. You’ll need to pay off the loan to release the title. If your sale price is less than your loan balance, you’ll need to cover the difference. Conversely, if your sale price exceeds your loan balance, the lender will release the title after receiving payment.
Lender Requirements for Private Sales
Consult your lender regarding their specific procedures for private sales with outstanding loans. Often, transactions are facilitated at a bank or financial institution to ensure secure payment and title transfer.
Negative Equity and Trade-Ins
Avoid rolling negative equity (owing more than your car is worth) into a new car loan. This can lead to a cycle of debt.
Selling a Car Without a Title
Selling without a title is generally difficult and often depends on state regulations. Requesting a replacement title is usually necessary. Classic cars may have different ownership documentation requirements.
Selling Back to a Dealership
Dealerships are often interested in purchasing used cars, given current market conditions. You can trade in your car or sell it outright for cash. Research fair market value using resources like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds before negotiating with dealerships.
Selling Car Parts for Cash
If selling a junk car, consider selling valuable parts separately. Options include:
- Junkyards (quick but lower returns)
- Scrap metal yards (value based on metal content)
- Online platforms (Amazon, eBay, etc. for potentially higher prices)
- Auto shops and stores (local businesses may be interested)
Conclusion: Your Best Path to Selling Your Vehicle
Choosing the best place to sell vehicle depends on your individual needs and priorities. For speed and ease, Cars.com is our top overall recommendation. For maximizing value, CarMax stands out. For private sales, Facebook Marketplace offers broad reach, and Bring a Trailer is ideal for classic cars. Carefully consider your options and follow the steps outlined in this guide to ensure a successful and profitable car selling experience.
Car Selling Websites: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best website to sell a used car?
Cars.com is our top pick due to its user-friendly platform and diverse selling options, including instant cash offers and a private marketplace.
Which online car buyer gives the most money?
CarMax is often cited as offering the highest values for used vehicles based on our research and testing.
How do I avoid scams when selling my car online?
Be cautious of payment methods, avoid overpayments, meet in public places, and be wary of out-of-state buyers or representatives.
What are the largest online used car retailers?
CarMax and Carvana are the largest, based on revenue and vehicle sales volume.
How do I find out the value of my car?
Kelley Blue Book (KBB) is the industry standard, with Edmunds, Carfax, and TrueCar also providing valuation tools.
Can you negotiate with online car buying websites?
Generally, no. Companies like Carvana and CarMax offer fixed, non-negotiable cash offers.
Is Autotrader a good place to sell privately?
Autotrader Private Seller Exchange offers a structured platform for private sales with features for safety and fraud prevention, for a fee.
Our Methodology
Our rankings are based on a comprehensive rating system evaluating car selling platforms across five key areas: Pricing and Financing (30%), Support (30%), Platform Features (15%), Customer Experience (15%), and Industry Standing (10%). We conduct secret shopper analyses, review customer feedback, and assess industry reputation to provide objective and accurate recommendations.
Data accurate at time of publication
For feedback or questions, please contact [email protected].
