Buy, sell or trade in your car
When you buy
- 01Ask about a car by its stock number
- 02See the car and take a test drive
- 03Review the inspection and vehicle history report
- 04Agree on price and payment
- 05Sign the paperwork, transfer the title and drive home
Used car checklist
Wherever you buy, check these six points. Only an inspection report shows the actual condition.
- Title and ID
- The name on the title should match the seller's photo ID.
- Liens and loans
- Before the sale, check whether the car has a lien or an unpaid loan against the title.
- Inspection report
- Body, paint and mechanical condition are in the report; it shows the car as it was on the day of the inspection.
- Service records
- Go through the service receipts and the mileage history together with the car.
- Test drive
- Start the engine cold, and drive in town and on the highway.
- Purchase agreement and Buyers Guide
- The price and the car's details should be complete in the agreement, and the FTC Buyers Guide should say as is or warranty.
Sample imageSelling or trading in your car
Send us the make, model, year and mileage. We look at the car and give you a written view of its market range; the final number comes after an inspection in person.
Trade-ins are welcome; the value and the difference are given in writing after we see your car.
We do not quote a price by message. You get our view in writing after we see the car and review the inspection.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out about a car's body and paint history?
A pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic shows the body, paint and mechanical condition. Send us the stock number and we will share the report, or you can take the car to a shop of your choice. A vehicle history report can show reported accidents and title records, but it does not replace an inspection.
What paperwork is involved in buying a used car?
You sign a purchase agreement and the dealer handles the title transfer and registration with the state. Sales tax, title, registration and documentation fees depend on your state and county; ask for an itemized out-the-door price before you sign. Each car also carries the FTC Buyers Guide, which says whether it is sold as is or with a warranty.
Can I finance the car?
Financing depends on the lender's review; the dealer does not promise loan approval. The payment calculator is for information only. Down payment and term limits depend on the lender, the car and your credit; ask the lender for current terms. You can try the payment calculator on this site for a monthly estimate.
How do I sell my car or trade it in?
Send us the make, model, year, mileage and fuel type by WhatsApp, then bring the car by so we can see it. Bring the title and your photo ID. If there is a loan on the car, tell us up front; the lender's lien has to be paid off before the title can transfer.
When will I know what my car is worth?
We do not quote prices over the phone or by text. After we see the car and review the mileage, service history and inspection, we give you a written view of its market range. A binding purchase offer is made separately.
How does a trade-in work?
Trade-ins are welcome; the value and the difference are given in writing after we see your car. Each car is valued on its own, and the difference and how it is paid are written into the agreement.
For a monthly estimate, try the payment calculator.