When it comes to selling your automobile, there are many choices available. You’ve probably done some research and are having trouble deciding which approach is ideal, whether it’s dealerships, third-party businesses, or do-it-yourself markets. Although there are numerous online markets for car sales and purchases, Craigslist remains one of the most frequently used. But, how to sell a car on Craigslist?
Users may buy & sell a wide range of products and services on Craigslist, an online classifieds website. Craigslist offers a wide range of items, from furniture and appliances for the home to apartments and job openings. Not surprisingly, it’s also a fantastic site for buying and selling cars.
Keep reading and exploring to learn how to tell what was updated on CL car ads. Moreover, we will also discuss what are some of the best practice tips for selling your car on Craigslist.
What is Craigslist?
On the Craigslist website, users may post classified advertisements and interact with one another through message boards. Founder Craig Newmark launched it as a San Francisco-based email list in 1995, and in 1996 it was transformed into a website. Since 2000, its global footprint has grown rapidly, and it currently serves more than 70 countries. Craigslist is used by millions of individuals to meet new people, sell goods online, and look for housing, work, and other services.
Craigslist now operates in 700 cities in 70 countries, all of which have a layout that is primarily text-based and hasn’t altered much since the early 2000s. You can sell your car faster if you know how to sell a car on Craigslist in 2025.
One of the most reliable sites for matching local buyers and sellers is Craigslist. It is a popular choice for many who want to optimize their sale price without having dealership fees reduce their earnings because of its easy setup, local reach, and inexpensive listing charge. Many sellers are curious about does Craigslist charges a fee or not; fortunately, there is only a $5 fee, making it an affordable choice.
How To Sell A Car On Craigslist Without Getting Scammed?
Below are the important steps which you should follow to sell car on Craigslist without getting robbed or scammed:
Step 1: Gather The Paperwork Necessary To Sell Your Vehicle
Organizing your documentation is the first step in selling your car. The process of selling a car involves a lot of legal paperwork, so before listing your vehicle, you need to make sure everything is in order.
Because every state has its laws and regulations, this process might become a little challenging and time-consuming. Reviewing your state’s criteria for a private car sale is essential. For a comprehensive summary of each state’s requirements, visit DMV.org. If you have any questions during the procedure, don’t hesitate to ask professionals.
The majority of individuals will need this documentation to know how to sell a car on Craigslist:
Also Read: Cargurus vs Autotrader: A Comparison for Car Buyers & Sellers
Title of Vehicle
You must have the car’s title in your name to sell it. If the title contains more than one name, the automobile cannot be sold until all of the names are legally signed. Before you can finish the transaction, you will need to go to the DMV and transfer ownership if you are not the original owner and the car still has registration in the name of the prior owner. To ensure that everything goes well once you find a buyer, make sure this is completed before offering your automobile for shipping.
The Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is regarded as a contract between a buyer and a seller that contains information on both parties, including the car being sold. It’s a good idea to fill out one of these for your records, even if it’s not necessary in every state. It’s a straightforward legal document that compiles a high-level summary of your car transaction. Copies can be made for both the buyer and you. The DMV offers Bill of sale forms for download.
Disclosure of Damages
Although not necessary in every state, it is nevertheless a good idea to have this paperwork. Any prior or current damage to the vehicle is documented in a damage disclosure statement. The majority of private used automobile sales are regarded as “as-is, where-is,” hence, this car hauler insurance paperwork is uncommon.
Documentation For Emissions Tests
Include your most recent emissions test results with the sale of the vehicle if you’re purchasing or selling in a state that mandates routine emissions testing. That is the important point in knowing how to sell a car on Craigslist.
Details of The Warranty
If the car was bought separately or has any residual warranty from the original manufacturer, you should try to find out how the transfer works. When determining a price and marketing your automobile, be sure to look into your warranty, as it may help raise the car’s worth and draw in more potential buyers.
Step 2: Do Your Best To Clean And Fix Your Vehicle
Even while this step might not seem important, it could be the difference between a customer passing over your automobile for something more attractive or picking it. Every automobile on the lot or in the showroom is spotless, shiny, and smells like a brand-new one, as anybody who has ever gone car shopping knows. Not every seller can afford to have their car completely cleaned, but before you take any pictures for advertising that prospective buyers would view, you should at least vacuum and wash the vehicle.
Checklist For Car Cleaning:
- Clean and disinfect the inside. Examine the center system, dashboard, side compartments, seats, and steering wheel for cracks and fissures.
- Vacuum the carpet, floor mats, seats, and floors. Make every effort to get rid of any stains that may be there.
- Clean your car’s windows, windshield, mirrors, and, if it has one, the sunroof.
- Fix anything that needs to be fixed, such as loose screws, burned-out light bulbs, or other easy interior repairs.
- The car’s exterior should be cleaned and waxed.
Also Read: Vroom vs Carvana: Best Online Car Marketplace in 2025
Step 3: Calculate The Total Market Value of Your Vehicle
When selling your automobile on Craigslist, setting a reasonable price is essential to drawing in potential buyers and obtaining a good price if you want to know how to sell a car on Craigslist.
Start by estimating its worth using Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book according to the vehicle’s make, model, year, mileage, and condition.
To determine a competitive asking price, look up comparable used automobiles in your area. Keep in mind current market trends, such as how an SUV that has been well-maintained and has not been in an accident may command a higher price in areas with severe winters.
Step 4: Take Stunning Pictures Of Your Vehicle
When it comes to selling a car, your photos might fetch thousands of dollars because they are worth a thousand words. Take excellent pictures of your automobile that highlight all of its features to present it in the best possible light.
Make sure to showcase your car’s outside and interior from a variety of perspectives. Customers, especially prospective long-distance and out-of-state buyers, will not tolerate unpleasant surprises when they arrive to see the automobile in person, so don’t try to disguise any visual flaws or dents.
Step 5: Write a Thorough Auto Description
When describing your automobile on Craigslist, you should be as truthful and detailed as you can. It would be helpful if you could give additional details. Provide as much information as you can about the car’s manufacture, model, and history. Customers will view you as more reliable and have fewer queries about your business when you provide them with more information up front. A consumer is more likely to feel secure about buying your automobile if they are able to obtain sufficient information. Moreover, you can also attach a car inspection report.
You should include the following things in your description if you want to know how to sell a car on Craigslist:
- Make, model, and sub-model of the vehicle
- Engine type and size (such as gasoline, diesel, electric vehicles, etc.)
- Color (outside and inside)
- Type of interior (leather, cloth)
- Distance
- Type of transmission (manual or automatic)
Functions And Accessories:
- ABS
- Air conditioning
- CarPlay on Apple
- Headlights that turn on automatically
- Bluetooth
- Cruise control
- Two airbags
- Power locks for doors
- Windows power
- The rearview camera
- The sunroof
- Windows that are tinted
- Hitch for towing
Write down a brief account of the car’s maintenance and repair history, including any repairs that have been made. Note any problems or visual flaws in the description, along with whether you’re willing to haggle. Include your geographical location (a town or city is useful, but it’s not necessary) and the best way for purchasers to get in touch with you.
Also Read: CarMax vs Carvana: Which Online Car Buying Platform Is More Reliable?
Step 6: Post Your Advertisement
This step is quite simple after all that preparation. Verify all of your paperwork again, add your pictures, create your Craigslist ad, publish it, and watch for potential buyers. You may utilize this time to be ready to seal the transaction, but it can be a nerve-racking and patient phase.
Step 7: Set Up A Meeting With Buyers
Congratulations! People are now asking questions about your car! Now is the moment to react with promptness and professionalism.
Examine Possible Purchasers
Make sure to evaluate potential purchasers before scheduling a meeting; this will help you avoid scammers and ensure a more seamless transaction.
To screen out people who aren’t serious, be clear about the payment options you accept. It is an important step in knowing how to sell a car on Craigslist.
To assist in preventing fraud, stick to safe methods like wire transfers or cashier’s checks, and be on the lookout for dangers like scams or even robbery.
You avoid wasting anyone’s or your own time, make sure you pre-qualify prospective buyers to ensure they are truly interested in your automobile before setting up a test drive.
Set Up Secure Test Drives
Make sure you meet prospective purchasers in well-lit public areas when scheduling test drives. Bringing a colleague along for the test drive is also a wonderful option because it may help you feel safer. Additionally, before giving the customer the keys, make sure to verify their driver’s license!
Step 8: Complete The Purchase
Are you ready to sell your car? Your final obstacle is negotiating and closing the sale, which you can do without worry if you take the proper strategy!
To avoid undervaluing yourself, choose the lowest offer you’ll take before you begin bargaining.
To keep things clear, it’s a good idea to include a harm disclosure statement. Have the title available if you are the car’s only owner, particularly if the buyer requires financing. Additionally, if there is a warranty, find out how to transfer it; customers like that extra benefit!
To avoid fraud, always utilize safe payment methods, such as wire transfers or cashier’s checks. For safety, try to do the transaction in a public parking lot during the day. Until you are certain that the payment has cleared, do not turn over the keys or title. Make sure you settle any outstanding debt before completing the sale of the vehicle.
Conclusion
Finally, you now know everything about selling a car on Craigslist. After reading this blog on how to sell a car on Craigslist, you must have a clear idea of how to sale a car on Craigslist without being scammed. If you are looking for the answer to the question, “How do I sell a car on Craigslist?”, this blog is for you. Additionally, you may guarantee a seamless transaction by getting your automobile ready, making an interesting listing, and adhering to safety regulations. Additionally, keep an eye out, follow your gut, and give secure communication and payments top priority.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How Much Does Craigslist Charge To Sell A Car?
Posting a vehicle for sale on Craigslist costs a fixed $5. Those who buy automobiles through the site are not subject to this cost; it only applies to individual sellers selling their autos.
Is It Worth It To Sell A Car On Craigslist?
Craigslist offers direct contact with customers and the possibility of a higher sale price, making it a good place to sell a car.
What Is The Best Way To Accept Payment For A Car On Craigslist?
After confirming the money and completing the required documentation, cash or a bank wire transfer is the safest way to take payment for a car sold on Craigslist.
Is It Free To Post A Car For Sale On Craigslist?
No, listing a car for sale on Craigslist is not free. Although posting in the majority of Craigslist’s categories is free, listing a car or truck for sale costs $5.
