Used Car Selling Guide

Getting Ready: Research and Preparation

We’re big believers in the importance of research, particularly when selling a car. So, make sure to start by looking into all your options and getting yourself ready for the quest ahead.

Mainly, you’ll need to decide whether you want to sell your car independently or at a dealer. Both have unique pros and cons, so one may be better suited to your needs than the other.

While selling on your own will require you to do most of the leg work yourself, our team is always here to assist you however we can. You can use us as a resource for the next part of research, where you’ll look into your car’s market value.

Whether you decide to sell with us or on your own, you can use our tools, such as Value Your Trade, to start getting ready. You can even bring your vehicle to us for an appraisal to find out exactly how much your vehicle is worth.

It’s also wise to take this time to locate certain essential documents and accessories that go with your vehicle. You’ll have to bring the title and spare keys with you when you trade, plus it can be beneficial to bring along some kind of maintenance record, too.

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Prep Your Vehicle: Cleaning Inside and Out

With all the initial preparation out of the way, it’s time to prepare your vehicle. A clean vehicle that looks and feels like-new will typically fetch a higher value. So, give your model the extra boost it needs to achieve its worth and take some time to clean it.

You can also take care of any minor maintenance needs while you’re at it, as this can impact the vehicle’s value. From refilling the tires to checking for any leaks, these small steps can drastically improve your selling experience.

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Time to Sell: What to Expect When Selling Your Car

When selling independently, you’ll need to decide how and where to sell. Try to include detailed photos of the vehicle and the CARFAX® report if you’re able, as this can help buyers to feel more confident as they consider your vehicle.

If you choose to sell at a dealership, you’ll find that the team will handle all the legwork. Bring your model in and have an expert assess it to determine its worth. They’ll make you an offer, which can be included in the payment plan for a new vehicle if you choose to trade up.

Otherwise, you can simply take the check and walk away. The dealership team will even help you with the remaining paperwork to ensure that the sale goes off without a hitch.

Used Car Research