How to Sell Your Car Online in the UK

1 Research the Right Asking Price

Pricing correctly is the single biggest factor in how quickly your car sells.

• Search for identical cars on AllCars — same make, model, year, fuel type, and similar mileage.
• Full service history, recent MOT, and low mileage all add value.
• Price slightly above your minimum to leave room to negotiate — most buyers expect 5–10%.

2 Prepare Your Car

A clean car sells faster and for more money.

• Clean it thoroughly — a professional valet costs £50–£100 and typically adds more than it costs.
• Fix minor issues — replace blown bulbs, top up fluids, fix cheap scratches.
• Gather documents — V5C logbook, service history, MOT certificates, receipts for recent work.
• Check the MOT — if it's expiring soon, a fresh MOT makes the car far easier to sell.

3 Take Great Photos

Listings with 10+ clear photos get significantly more enquiries.

• Shoot in daylight, ideally overcast (direct sun causes glare).
• Clean background — a quiet road, not your driveway with bins in shot.
• Cover all angles: front, rear, both sides, interior, boot, dashboard, engine bay.
• Photograph any damage honestly — buyers who discover undisclosed damage will walk away or lowball heavily.

4 Write a Clear, Honest Listing

Answer buyers' questions before they ask:

• Why are you selling? ("Upgrading to a larger car" builds trust.)
• Service history — full, partial, or none?
• Recent work — new tyres, cambelt, brakes?
• Any known faults or advisory items from the last MOT?
• Is it a one-owner car?

5 Handle Enquiries Safely

• Overpayment scam — buyer sends too much and asks you to refund before their transfer clears. Never refund before funds clear.
• Fake escrow — buyer insists on a third-party escrow service. These are almost always fake.
• Test drive theft — always accompany test drivers and take a copy of their driving licence first.
• Meet in a safe, public place for viewings where possible.

6 Complete the Sale

• Fill in the V5C — keep the main part until DVLA confirms, give the buyer the green new keeper slip.
• Notify DVLA immediately at gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle to remove your liability.
• Cancel your insurance once you no longer have the car.
• You may be eligible for a road tax refund for any full months remaining.