When it comes to selling an automobile, selling it to a dealer is the most convenient option. Most dealers will purchase your vehicle without forcing you to trade it in for another vehicle. With a continuous inventory deficit and escalating used-car prices, now is a good moment to sell. And, since dealers compete to fill their lots, they will likely make the procedure as fast and easy for you as possible.
Among the benefits of selling your vehicle to a dealer is that you won’t have to be concerned about finding a buyer for a private sale. This means you may sell the vehicle quicker and eliminate hassles such as meeting potential purchasers or risks such as fraud. Nevertheless, there are some measures you must take to ensure that the process goes smoothly – and that you receive the greatest offer.
The Best Way to Sell Your Car to a Dealer
First, you must pick where you will sell the automobile. Even though it is not required, selecting a dealership that sells the very same brand as your used car can help you get a higher offer; this is particularly true if it’s a recent car that is in good shape that qualifies for a certified pre-owned program. Before you arrive, call a number of dealerships and ask about selling your car.
You should also ensure that you have all of the appropriate documentation (particularly the title to the car, if you have one) and essential accessories, like extra key fobs. Extras are a pretty effective way to get a better price from a possible buyer, whether that purchaser is a car dealer or not.
What to Do When You Arrive at a Used Car Dealership
When you get to the dealership, let the salesperson know you’re there to sell your automobile. That individual will collect your information, check your vehicle, and access the vehicle history database to run the vehicle identification number. This shows the vehicle damage and accidents.
They will almost certainly inquire if you are utilizing the vehicle you intend to sell as a trade-in for a new vehicle. If you use the car as a trade-in, you may be paid more money “on paper” than if you offer it for cash. The majority of dealers will enable you to sell your old vehicle even if you don’t buy a brand new one, particularly as inventory shortages persist.
The Deal
The offer you get will be determined by a number of factors, the most important of which is the price paid for comparable vehicles at auction. Additional factors that may affect the offer are whether or not similar automobiles are on the lot for sale, the state of your car, and whether or not your car requires any repairs or maintenance before it is ready to be sold.
If there is money owed on the car, the amount you are offered may be affected. Typically, the dealer will be capable of handling the logistics of repaying the loan and obtaining the title. If the car is valued more than what you owe on it, the dealer will subtract the loan repayment figure from the offer and give you the remainder in cash.
Receive Multiple Offers
Even if you’ve done some research ahead of time, keep in mind that every dealer is unique. If the dealer you’re contacting has several models of the car you’re attempting to sell, it may result in a lower-than-expected offer.
If earning the most money for the car is more appealing than selling it quickly, it’s a good idea to look around for the greatest deal.
Complete the Transaction
Once you’ve received various offers, compare them to those of other dealers and select the best one — and note, you can try to negotiate. However, don’t wait too long: Because a dealer’s offer might fluctuate as the market moves, if you extend this procedure over a few weeks, you may be disappointed when you eventually decide to take action.
Finally, ensure you explain the terms of the transaction and when you may expect to receive cash from the dealer; it is not guaranteed that you will obtain a check the very same day you sell the car.