Sell My Car for Cash: The Ultimate Guide

When you decide to sell your car, your personal safety is the most important thing to consider. While selling privately can sometimes get you a higher price, it also means meeting with strangers and handling large sums of money, which comes with real risks. If you need to sell my car for cash now, you shouldn’t have to compromise your security. This guide will walk you through all the essential safety precautions, from spotting common scams and planning a secure meetup to accepting payments safely. We’ll also compare the security of a private sale to the peace of mind that comes with selling to a trusted dealership.

Key Takeaways

• Control the sale by preparing first: A clean car, organized paperwork like the title and service records, and a clear understanding of your vehicle's market value put you in a stronger negotiating position.
• Compare your options to find the right fit: Get offers from different sources, including local dealerships and online retailers, to find the best balance of price, speed, and convenience for your needs.
• Prioritize a secure and legal transaction: If selling privately, always meet in a safe public place and verify payment. For a risk-free process, a dealership handles all legal paperwork and guarantees secure payment.

Where to Sell Your Car for Cash

When you’re ready to sell your car, you have more options than ever. From local dealerships to national online retailers, each path offers a different balance of convenience, price, and personal effort. Let’s walk through the most popular places to get cash for your car so you can decide which one is the right fit for you.

Auto Fanatics

Selling your car locally to a trusted dealership like Auto Fanatics is often the most straightforward and stress-free option. We pride ourselves on a transparent, no-pressure process right here in Fredericksburg. You can skip the hassle of listing your car online, meeting with strangers, and handling complicated paperwork on your own. We provide a fair, competitive offer based on your vehicle's condition and current market value. The best part? You can get a check in hand quickly and confidently. If you’re ready for a simple and honest selling experience, you can sell us your car and let our team handle the rest.

CarMax

CarMax is a huge name in the used car world and is known for making competitive offers, especially for vehicles in good condition. You can start by getting an instant offer on their website, which is a great way to get a baseline value for your car. However, you’ll need to bring your vehicle to a physical CarMax location to have it inspected and finalize the sale. Their offers are good for seven days, giving you some time to think it over without the price changing. It’s a solid choice if you have a newer model car and don’t mind visiting one of their locations.

Carvana

If you prefer to handle the entire selling process from your couch, Carvana is designed for you. They offer a completely digital experience where you can get an offer online and schedule a time for them to come pick up your car directly from your home. You can also choose to drop it off at one of their locations if that’s more convenient. Payment is typically handled via direct deposit or a certified check, making the transaction smooth and contact-free. Like CarMax, their offers are valid for seven days, giving you a window to make your final decision without any pressure.

Vroom

Vroom operates very similarly to Carvana, offering another convenient, online-first way to sell your car. You’ll start by submitting your vehicle’s information on their website to receive an instant appraisal. If you accept their offer, they will arrange to pick up your car for free. After a quick inspection to confirm the car’s condition matches the information you provided, they’ll process your payment. It’s a great alternative if you’re shopping around for the best online offer and want to compare it against other digital retailers before making a commitment.

TrueCar

TrueCar works a bit differently—it’s not a direct buyer. Instead, it acts as a middleman that connects you with its network of certified local dealerships. You enter your car’s details on their site, and you’ll receive a cash offer that you can take to a participating dealer. A key benefit is that the offer is locked in for three days, so you know exactly what you’ll get before you even walk into the dealership. This can save you time and the stress of haggling, but you will need to provide your contact information to see the offer.

Peddle

What if your car has seen better days? That’s where Peddle comes in. This service specializes in buying cars in any condition—even if they’re old, damaged, or not running at all. They provide an instant offer online and will arrange for free towing right from your home, making it incredibly easy to get rid of a vehicle that might be difficult to sell elsewhere. If you have a junk car or a clunker taking up space in your driveway, Peddle is one of the most convenient ways to turn it into cash quickly.

Other Local Dealerships

Beyond the big names, your local dealerships are always an option. Many offer a simple and quick process, allowing you to get cash for your car the same day you bring it in. They are accustomed to buying vehicles of all makes, models, and conditions, even those that need a few repairs. While the experience can vary from one dealership to another, it’s often a fast way to sell without the complexities of a private sale. It’s always a good idea to check their customer reviews to get a sense of their reputation before you visit.

Online Marketplaces

For those who don’t mind putting in a little more work, online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist can help you reach a wide audience of private buyers. Listing on Facebook is free, and you can often vet potential buyers by looking at their profiles. Craigslist charges a small fee to list a vehicle but remains a popular platform for local sales. Selling privately can sometimes get you a higher price, but it means you’re responsible for everything: taking photos, writing a description, responding to inquiries, scheduling test drives, and handling the final payment and title transfer securely.

Get Your Car and Paperwork Ready

Before you can get cash for your car, a little prep work can make a huge difference. Taking the time to get your vehicle and documents in order not only makes the selling process smoother but can also help you get a better offer. Think of it as setting the stage for a successful sale. When a buyer—whether it’s a dealership like us or a private individual—sees a well-presented car with all the paperwork ready, it builds confidence and shows you’re a serious, responsible seller. From gathering the right documents to giving your car a good scrub, these steps will put you in the best position to sell quickly and for a fair price. Let’s walk through exactly what you need to do to get everything squared away.

What Paperwork Do You Need?

First things first, let’s get your documents in a row. Having the right paperwork on hand is non-negotiable for a legal and smooth sale. The most important document is the car’s title, which proves you’re the legal owner. Make sure it’s signed by everyone listed as an owner. You’ll also need your current vehicle registration and a valid photo ID. It’s also a great idea to gather any maintenance records you have, as they show potential buyers that you’ve taken good care of the car. While requirements can vary slightly, you can always check the official Virginia DMV website to confirm you have everything you need for a title transfer in our state.

Pull Your Vehicle's History Report

Transparency is key to building trust with any potential buyer. One of the best ways to be upfront is by providing a vehicle history report. This report gives a complete picture of your car's past, including any reported accidents, service history, title issues, and previous owners. You can easily get a report from services like CARFAX or AutoCheck using your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Having this information ready shows you have nothing to hide and helps the buyer feel confident in their decision. It answers many of their questions upfront and can speed up the entire selling process, making things easier for everyone involved.

Complete a Pre-Sale Inspection

No one likes surprises, especially when it comes to a car sale. Getting a pre-sale inspection from a trusted mechanic can help you identify any underlying issues before a buyer does. This gives you the choice to either fix minor problems, which could increase your car’s value, or to be transparent about them and adjust your price accordingly. An inspection report acts as a professional third-party assessment of your car's condition, which can be a powerful tool during negotiations. It shows you’ve done your due diligence and gives the buyer peace of mind, making them more comfortable moving forward with the purchase.

Take High-Quality Photos

If you’re planning to list your car online or get quotes from multiple buyers, great photos are your best friend. A picture is truly worth a thousand words, and high-quality images can make your car stand out. Start by making sure your car is clean (more on that next!). Then, find a spot with good, even lighting—overcast days are often better than bright, sunny ones to avoid glare. Take photos from every angle: front, back, both sides, and corner shots. Don’t forget the inside! Capture the dashboard, front and back seats, trunk, and even the engine. Clear, detailed photos create a great first impression and attract serious buyers.

Clean and Detail Your Car

A clean car is a desirable car. Spending a little time and effort on detailing can have a big impact on how much you get for your vehicle. A car that looks and smells clean gives the impression that it’s been well-maintained. Start by clearing out all personal items and trash. Give the interior a thorough vacuuming, wipe down all surfaces, and clean the windows. For the exterior, a good wash and wax will make the paint shine. Don’t forget the tires and rims! This simple step doesn’t cost much, but it can significantly increase your car’s curb appeal and perceived value.

Research Your Car's Market Value

Before you set a price or review an offer, you need to know what your car is actually worth. Its value depends on several factors, including its make, model, year, mileage, condition, and even its color. Doing a bit of research will give you a realistic price range to work with. You can use online valuation tools to get a solid estimate. This knowledge empowers you during negotiations and ensures you get a fair deal. If you’re curious about what your car might be worth, you can get a quick and easy estimate using our online trade-in value tool to get started.

What Are Your Selling Options?

When it’s time to sell your car, you have a few different paths you can take. Each one comes with its own set of pros and cons, from the amount of effort required to the final price you’ll get. Understanding these options helps you choose the route that best fits your timeline, budget, and comfort level. Let’s break down the three main ways to sell your car.

Selling to a Dealership

Selling your car to a dealership is often the fastest and most straightforward option. You can walk in, get an offer, and often walk out with a check the same day. Dealerships, like us here at Auto Fanatics, handle all the paperwork, including the title transfer, which saves you a ton of time and potential headaches. You don't have to worry about creating online listings, meeting with strangers, or dealing with payment scams. While you might get a slightly lower offer than a private sale, many people find the convenience and security are well worth it. It’s a great choice if you want a simple, stress-free process.

Selling to an Online Retailer

In recent years, online car retailers have become a popular choice. Services like Carvana, Vroom, and TrueCar let you get an offer for your car online in just a few minutes, often without leaving your home. You simply enter your car’s details, and they provide an instant cash offer. If you accept, they’ll arrange for an inspection and pick up the vehicle directly from you. This method combines convenience with a competitive offer, as you can easily compare prices from different sites. It’s a solid middle ground between a dealership and a private sale, though the final offer can sometimes change after the in-person inspection.

Selling to a Private Buyer

Selling your car to a private buyer usually gets you the highest price. You set the asking price and have full control over the negotiation process. However, this route requires the most work. You’re responsible for everything: advertising the car, taking high-quality photos, responding to inquiries, scheduling test drives with strangers, and handling all the legal paperwork. You also have to be cautious about payment to avoid scams. While it can be rewarding financially, it takes a lot more time and effort. To get the best price, it's a good idea to compare offers from several sources before you commit to a listing price.

How to Get Paid

Getting paid safely is one of the most critical parts of selling your car. When you sell to a reputable dealership, you get a check directly from them, which is a secure and guaranteed form of payment. This avoids the risks that can come with private sales. If you sell to a private buyer, never accept a personal check. A cashier’s check from a bank is a safer bet, but you should go with the buyer to their bank to watch the check get printed. This ensures it’s legitimate. For smaller amounts, cash is an option, but be sure to verify the bills are real.

How to Transfer the Title

The vehicle title is the legal document that proves ownership, and transferring it correctly is essential. When you sell your car, you must sign the title over to the new owner. If you have a loan on the car, your lender holds the title, and you’ll need to pay off the loan before you can transfer it. This process can be tricky, and any mistakes can cause major legal issues down the road. One of the biggest benefits of selling to a dealership is that they handle all the title work and DMV paperwork for you, ensuring everything is done correctly and legally.

Your Action Plan: Get Cash for Your Car Today

Ready to turn your car into cash? Following a clear plan can make the entire process feel less overwhelming and help you get the best possible price. Think of it as a simple checklist. By tackling one step at a time, you’ll move smoothly from getting your car ready to having cash in hand. Let’s walk through the six essential steps to sell your car confidently and get the deal you deserve.

Step 1: Choose Where to Sell

Deciding where to sell your car is your first big move, and it sets the stage for the rest of the process. You have several options, from large online retailers to local dealerships and private sales. Each has its pros and cons. Selling to a trusted local dealership like Auto Fanatics offers a straightforward, secure experience, while online platforms provide convenience. Exploring the best sites to sell a car can give you a good overview of your choices so you can pick the path that feels right for you and your vehicle.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Before you can sell, you need to get your paperwork in order. Having everything ready from the start prevents delays and shows potential buyers you’re a serious and organized seller. The most important document is the car’s title, which proves you own it. You’ll also want to have your vehicle registration, loan payoff information (if applicable), and any maintenance records you’ve kept. Having a complete checklist of necessary documents on hand makes for a much smoother transaction when you find the right buyer and are ready to close the deal.

Step 3: Get Multiple Offers

Don’t jump on the first offer you receive. To make sure you’re getting a fair price, take the time to get offers from a few different places. You can get an instant online quote from a national retailer, see what a local dealership offers, and research private party values. This gives you a clear picture of your car's market value and provides leverage for negotiation. A great first step is to get a no-obligation offer from us at Auto Fanatics to set a strong, competitive baseline for your vehicle.

Step 4: Complete the Inspection

Once you have an offer you’re considering, the buyer will need to inspect the vehicle. This is a standard part of the process where they confirm the car’s condition matches the information you provided. They’ll look at everything from the engine and tires to the interior and exterior. To prepare, it’s a good idea to know your car’s condition inside and out. Being honest about any issues upfront builds trust and helps the final appraisal go smoothly, ensuring the offer you receive is fair and accurate without any last-minute surprises.

Step 5: Close the Deal

You’ve accepted an offer—now it’s time to make it official. Closing the deal involves signing the necessary paperwork, including the title and a bill of sale. If you sell to a dealership, they handle all the paperwork for you, which is a huge time-saver and removes the guesswork. You’ll sign over the title, hand over the keys, and receive your payment. Selling to a certified dealer is often the most secure way to get paid, as you’ll typically receive a check on the spot, avoiding the risks that can come with private transactions.

Step 6: Handle Post-Sale Details

After the car is officially sold, there are a few loose ends to tie up. First, remember to contact your insurance provider to cancel the policy for the vehicle you just sold. You’ll also need to notify your state’s DMV that you’ve sold the car to release your liability. This is a crucial step that protects you from future issues like parking tickets or accidents involving the car. Taking care of these final details ensures a clean break and a worry-free end to your car-selling journey.

Pro Tips for a Smarter Sale

Selling your car is a big financial decision, and a little preparation can go a long way toward getting a great deal. It’s not just about the final price; it’s also about making the process smooth, safe, and stress-free. Whether you’re a seasoned seller or this is your first time, these tips will help you approach the sale with confidence. Think of this as your inside guide to making smart moves, from picking the right time to sell to spotting potential problems before they start. With the right strategy, you can feel good about the offer you accept and the way you handle the entire transaction.

When Is the Best Time to Sell?

While there’s no single "perfect" time to sell, some seasons are better than others. Demand for cars, especially SUVs and trucks, often picks up in the spring and summer as people plan road trips and outdoor activities. Tax refund season, typically from February to April, can also be a great time as more buyers have cash on hand.

However, the best time to sell is ultimately when it’s right for you. If you need cash quickly or want to avoid the hassle of a private sale, selling to a dealership is almost always faster and easier. At Auto Fanatics, we make it simple to sell us your car any time of year, giving you a competitive offer without the wait.

How to Negotiate a Great Price

Your ability to negotiate depends heavily on who you’re selling to. If you’re selling to a private buyer, there’s usually more room for back-and-forth. You might get a slightly higher price if your car is a popular model in excellent condition, but it requires more time and effort on your part.

When you sell to a dealership, the process is more direct. Reputable dealers use market data to determine a fair value, which means less haggling and more transparency. To start on strong footing, get an idea of your car’s worth beforehand. You can easily get your trade-in value online to establish a solid baseline before you even start a conversation. This knowledge empowers you, no matter which selling path you choose.

Why You Should Get Multiple Offers

Never take the first offer you receive. Just like you’d shop around for a major purchase, you should shop your car around to different buyers. Getting offers from several sources is the single best way to understand what your car is truly worth on the current market. Comparing offers helps you maximize your selling price and ensures you’re not leaving money on the table.

Start by getting a quote from a trusted local dealership like Auto Fanatics. Then, you can compare that with offers from online retailers or other dealers. This strategy gives you leverage and a clear picture of the best possible deal. A competitive, transparent offer from a local source you trust is often the strongest starting point.

What Affects Your Car's Value?

Several key factors determine your car’s value. The most obvious are the make, model, year, and mileage. But beyond the basics, condition is king. Take an honest look at your car for dents, scratches, and interior wear. Well-maintained tires and brakes also add value. A clean car makes a great first impression, as it suggests you’ve taken good care of it.

Your car’s history also plays a huge role. Gather all your paperwork, including the title, service records, and any warranty information. A clean vehicle history report without accidents or major repairs will always command a higher price. Being organized and transparent about your car’s condition and history builds trust with any potential buyer.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

If you decide to sell to a private party, staying safe is your top priority. Be cautious when meeting strangers for test drives—always bring a friend or family member and meet in a well-lit, public place, like the parking lot of a police station.

Scams are also a real risk. A common red flag is a buyer who offers more than your asking price, often with a complicated story involving a cashier’s check. They might ask you to wire back the "extra" money before their check clears, which will later turn out to be fake. Selling to a verified business like Auto Fanatics eliminates these risks entirely, giving you a secure and professional experience from start to finish.

How to Stay Safe When Selling Your Car

Selling your car privately can be a great way to get a good price, but it also means you’re in charge of every step—including your own safety. When you invite strangers to look at your car, you open yourself up to potential risks. The good news is that with a little preparation and awareness, you can handle the process safely and confidently. Your personal security is always more important than making a quick sale.

Thinking through the process beforehand helps you stay in control. This means knowing which scams to look out for, how to plan a secure meetup, and how to handle payment without getting burned. If managing these details feels overwhelming, remember that selling directly to a trusted dealership is always an option. At Auto Fanatics, we offer a straightforward and secure process to sell us your car, which completely removes the risks of dealing with private buyers. But if you’re set on a private sale, let’s walk through the essential steps to keep you safe.

Spot and Avoid Common Scams

Scammers often use predictable tactics, so learning to spot the red flags is your first line of defense. Be cautious of anyone who immediately offers more than your asking price. This is often the setup for a fake check scam, where they send a fraudulent cashier’s check for too much money and ask you to wire back the difference. You send the real money before the check bounces, and you’re left with the loss.

Also, be wary of buyers who seem overly eager to close the deal without seeing the car or who send a generic, automated-sounding first message. A serious buyer will have specific questions. If someone insists on sending a "third-party agent" to pick up the car or refuses to meet in a safe, public location, it’s best to walk away and wait for a more legitimate offer.

Plan a Safe Meetup Location

Never invite a potential buyer to your home. Your home address is private information, and you don’t want strangers knowing where you live. Instead, always choose a neutral, public, and well-lit location for meetups and test drives. The parking lot of a local police station is an excellent choice, as many departments encourage residents to use their lots for online marketplace transactions.

A busy shopping center during the day is another good option. No matter where you decide to meet, never go alone. Bring a friend or family member with you. Having someone else there provides an extra layer of security and can help you feel more comfortable during the interaction. Make this a non-negotiable rule for yourself.

Accept Payments Securely

How you get paid is one of the most critical parts of the sale. Cash is often the simplest and safest method for a private transaction, but be sure to verify the bills are authentic. If the amount is large, consider meeting at your bank so the teller can verify the cash and you can deposit it immediately.

If you accept a cashier’s check, insist on meeting the buyer at their bank to witness the check being drawn. This confirms the funds are legitimate. Never accept a personal check, and be very skeptical of wire transfers or payment apps unless you are certain the funds have cleared and are irreversible. Remember, a cleared check can still be fraudulent, and it can take weeks for the bank to discover the issue and pull the money back from your account.

Protect Your Personal Information

Before you hand over the keys, make sure you protect your personal data. Start by cleaning out the car completely, checking the glove box, under the seats, and in the trunk for any personal documents like receipts or mail. More importantly, wipe your personal information from the car’s infotainment system. This includes deleting your home address from the GPS, unpairing your phone from the Bluetooth system, and logging out of any integrated apps.

When you finalize the sale, use a bill of sale to document the transaction. This legal document should include the date, sale price, vehicle information (VIN, make, model, year), and the names and signatures of both you and the buyer. It serves as your proof that the ownership has been transferred.

Final Safety Checks

The test drive is a necessary part of the process, but it requires some ground rules. Before you let anyone drive your car, ask to see their valid driver's license and snap a quick photo of it with your phone. This confirms they are who they say they are and are legally allowed to drive.

Always accompany the buyer on the test drive—never just hand over the keys. Sit in the passenger seat and direct them on a short, pre-planned route through a familiar neighborhood. Keep the drive to about 15-20 minutes, which is plenty of time for a serious buyer to get a feel for the car. This ensures you remain in control of the situation and your vehicle at all times.

Dealer vs. Private Sale: Which Is Right for You?

Deciding where to sell your car comes down to what you value most: time, money, or convenience. There are two main paths you can take: selling to a dealership or selling to a private buyer. Each has its own set of pros and cons, and the right choice really depends on your personal situation and comfort level. Selling to a dealership offers a fast, secure, and straightforward process. You can walk in with your car and often walk out with a check the same day. It’s the go-to option if you want to avoid the headaches of marketing your car and dealing with strangers.

On the other hand, a private sale might net you a slightly higher price, but it requires you to take on the role of a salesperson. You’ll be responsible for everything from advertising and answering inquiries to scheduling test drives and handling all the final paperwork. Think about your priorities. Do you need to sell your car quickly? Are you willing to put in the effort to get the highest possible price? Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide which path is the best fit for you.

How Fast Do You Need to Sell?

If you’re on a tight timeline, selling to a dealership is almost always the faster option. You can get a firm offer in minutes and complete the entire sale in just a few hours. There’s no need to wait for potential buyers to respond to an ad, schedule a time to see the car, or secure a loan. At a dealership, the process is streamlined to get you in and out quickly. If you need to sell your car today, a dealer is your best bet. A private sale is far more unpredictable; it could take weeks or even months to find a serious buyer and finalize the deal.

Are You Trying to Get Top Dollar?

This is where the biggest trade-off comes into play. You might get more money from a private sale because you’re setting the price yourself, and there’s no middleman. However, that higher price isn’t guaranteed. You’ll likely have to deal with negotiations, and there’s always the chance a buyer could back out at the last minute. A dealership’s offer might be slightly lower because they have to account for reconditioning costs and overhead, but it’s a firm, no-hassle offer you can count on. You can get a trade-in value online to get a solid idea of what your car is worth to a dealer before you even leave the house.

How Much Work Do You Want to Do?

Consider how much of your personal time you’re willing to invest. Selling privately is a hands-on job. You’ll need to clean and detail your car, take high-quality photos, write a compelling ad, and post it on multiple platforms. Then comes the work of fielding calls and messages, weeding out the scammers from serious buyers, and scheduling test drives. Selling to a dealership eliminates all of that. You simply bring your car in for an appraisal, get an offer, and sign the paperwork if you accept. It’s a simple, one-stop transaction that saves you a significant amount of time and effort.

What's the Safest Option?

Your personal safety is a top priority, and it’s a major factor to consider. When you sell privately, you’ll be meeting with strangers. It’s crucial to take precautions, like meeting in a busy, public place and never going alone. You also have to be cautious about payment methods to avoid scams or counterfeit cash. Selling to a licensed and reputable dealership like Auto Fanatics is by far the safer choice. You’re dealing with a professional business in a secure environment, and you don’t have to worry about fraudulent payments or personal risks. You can check out our customer reviews to see how we prioritize a safe and transparent experience.

What About Legal Protection?

The paperwork involved in selling a car can be tricky. In a private sale, you are solely responsible for making sure the title is transferred correctly and that any existing loan is paid off. If something is missed, you could be held liable for parking tickets or even accidents that happen after the sale. When you sell to a dealership, they handle all the DMV paperwork and lien payoffs for you. This provides crucial legal protection and peace of mind, ensuring the transaction is completed correctly and that you are free from any future liability associated with the vehicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I still owe money on my car? Can I sell it? Yes, you absolutely can. Selling a car with an outstanding loan is very common. The process involves getting a payoff quote from your lender to determine the exact amount you still owe. When you sell to a dealership, they handle this entire process for you. They pay off the loan directly with your lender and then write you a check for any positive equity that’s left over, which simplifies things tremendously.

Do I need to fix every scratch and dent before I sell? Not at all. While fixing a significant mechanical issue might be worthwhile, you typically won't get your money back on small cosmetic repairs. Your best investment is a thorough cleaning and detailing, as this has the biggest impact on a car's first impression. A dealership will evaluate your car's condition as-is and make a fair offer that accounts for normal wear and tear, saving you the time and expense of minor fixes.

Why would I sell to a dealership if a private sale could get me more money? This choice really comes down to what you value most: time and security or the highest possible price. A private sale can sometimes bring in more money, but it requires a lot of your personal time, effort, and carries potential safety risks. Selling to a dealership is a trade-off where you exchange a bit of potential profit for a huge amount of convenience, speed, and peace of mind. You get a secure, guaranteed payment without the stress of managing the sale yourself.

Is the online offer I get from a big retailer the final price? You should think of an initial online offer as a strong estimate, not a guaranteed final number. That price is generated based on the vehicle details you provide. The final, official offer is always determined after a hands-on inspection of your car. If the physical appraisal reveals any issues that weren't accounted for in the online form, the offer will likely be adjusted.

What's the single most important document I need to sell my car? The vehicle's title is by far the most critical document. It is the legal proof of ownership, and you cannot legally sell the car without it. Before you begin the selling process, make sure you have the physical title in hand and that it's ready to be signed over to the new owner. If you have a loan, your lender holds the title until it's paid off.