Best Ways To Sell Your Car

When the time comes to bid farewell to your trusted vehicle, choosing how to part ways opens up a spectrum of possibilities. While many choose to part exchange their old cars, there are lots of other options to consider, so Motorscan are here to empower you to make an informed decision for the best option. Join us on this journey of discovery as we analyse the choices available and compare the alternatives!

What is the alternative to part exchange?

There are several options for selling a car besides part-exchange. Before choosing an option, consider factors such as the condition of your vehicle, how quickly you need to sell, and how much effort you’re willing to put into the process. Some of the more common alternatives include:

• Private Sale: Advertise your car through online platforms such as Autotrader, classified ads, or local newspapers and be prepared to negotiate the price directly with potential buyers. 
• Online Car Buying Services: Several online services allow you to get a valuation for your car and sell it quickly without the hassle of advertising or negotiating. Companies like WeBuyAnyCar.com, Evans Halshaw, Arnold Clark and AutoTrader Instant Offer have online valuation tools, and once you complete the vehicle information process, they make an instant offer to purchase it.
• Auction: Consider selling your car through a live or online auction such as CarWow. Auctions can be a quick way to sell a car, but remember that the final sale price may vary.
• Online Car Selling Companies: Some companies, like Motorway, act as middlemen, allowing you to advertise your car for sale to dealerships nationwide where you’ll be offered the highest bid. 
• Consignment Sale: Some dealerships or specialist car sellers will sell your car on your behalf. The dealer will handle the sale, advertising, and negotiation in exchange for a commission.

Is it better to part exchange or sell?

Whether it’s better to part exchange (trade-in) your car or choose other options depends on your specific circumstances and priorities. Typically, offers made through part exchange are lower than what you could achieve through other options, so if getting the best price possible for your cherished ride is top of your list, you may want to consider other options. Here we look at some alternatives with their pros and cons:-

Private Sale

Pros: Potential for a higher price compared to part exchange.

Cons: It requires more time and effort as you’ll need to handle advertising, enquiries, and test drives.

Selling to Online Car Buying Services

Pros: These companies buy cars directly from owners so it can be a relatively quick and convenient option with the potential for a competitive offer. 

Cons: The offer may be lower than you could get in a private sale, so you maybe sacrificing some value for the convenience.Typically, there are no fees but some may charge for collection.

Selling to Online Car Selling Companies

Pros: You advertise your vehicle to dealerships nationwide with potential for a quick sale. Typically, there are no fees as these sites are paid by the dealerships who partner with them.

Cons: The offer may be lower than you could get privately, as these companies typically advertise your vehicle to dealerships and used car dealers. Again, there is the possibility you may sacrifice value for convenience.

Auction

Pros: Potential for a quick sale with competitive bidding that may drive the price up. 

Cons: Uncertain selling price so while multiple bidders may drive up the price, there’s the possibility of low bids. You’ll also have limited control and might not be able to influence the outcome although typically, you can set a reserve. Finally, auction houses and sites often charge fees for their services, so you need to bear this in mind.