If you’ve got an old car gathering dust in the driveway or just want to upgrade to something new, selling your vehicle can be a great way to earn quick cash. Among the many platforms available, CarGurus has become a trusted name for connecting sellers with eager buyers. Here's how to use CarGurus effectively to turn your old car into fast cash.
Why Choose CarGurus?
CarGurus is one of the most popular online automotive marketplaces, offering tools and resources that make the car-selling process simple, transparent, and speedy.
With millions of users each month, CarGurus gives your car maximum exposure. More visibility means more offers, and potentially a faster sale.
CarGurus helps you price your vehicle competitively using real-time market data. Their Instant Market Value (IMV) tool ensures you set a fair price that attracts buyers while maximizing your return.
Steps to Sell Your Car on CarGurus
Selling your car through CarGurus is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Before listing, make sure you have all your car’s details handy:
Go to CarGurus.com and choose the “Sell My Car” option. You’ll be guided through creating a listing with:
CarGurus offers two main selling options:
Tips to Maximize Your Sale
Want to get top dollar for your old car? Here are some quick tips to help you get the most out of your listing:
A clean car photographs better and makes a strong first impression. Even a basic vacuum and wash can go a long way.
Good lighting and clear angles are key. Include photos of the front, back, sides, interior, and any special features.
Be upfront about your car’s condition. Highlight its strengths, such as low mileage or recent maintenance, but also mention any issues.
Buyers often move fast, especially if they’re browsing multiple listings. A quick response can help seal the deal.
What Happens After You Sell?
Once you've accepted an offer or agreed on a price with a private buyer, here’s what you’ll need to do:
Make sure you:
For private sales, always meet in a safe location and confirm secure payment (cash or certified check). If you’re using the Instant Cash Offer, CarGurus partners handle the transaction professionally.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a quick, trustworthy, and user-friendly way to turn your old car into cash, CarGurus is one of the top choices available. Whether you're tech-savvy or a first-time seller, the platform offers tools to help you price your car smartly, market it effectively, and sell it securely — all from the comfort of home.
So whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or just simplifying, CarGurus can help you make the sale — and make it fast.
Yes, CarGurus allows free listings for private sellers, though premium options for added visibility are available for a fee.
It depends on your price, vehicle condition, and location, but many sellers receive inquiries within days. With the Instant Cash Offer, you could sell the same day.
Yes, for private sales you’ll typically meet buyers to show the car and complete the transaction. Always choose safe, public locations for meetings.
Yes, but you’ll need to coordinate with your lender to pay off the loan and transfer the title. CarGurus and some dealers can help with this during Instant Offers.
