Buying or selling a used car can be a time-consuming process, especially when you need to compare prices, find trustworthy dealers, arrange inspections and handle paperwork. Carwow offers an online platform that helps UK customers buy used cars from dealers and sell their existing vehicles through its dealer network.
Whether you are looking for your next car or planning to sell your current vehicle, understanding how the Carwow process works can make the experience much easier.
How to Sell a Used Car on Carwow
Carwow’s Sell My Car service allows you to get a valuation and present your vehicle to thousands of dealers through an online auction.
1. Get an Online Valuation
The first step is to enter your vehicle registration on Carwow. You will then provide information such as the car’s mileage, condition and service history. You can also upload photographs of the vehicle. Carwow uses market information, previous sales and vehicle details to determine its valuation.
2. Set Your Reserve Price
After providing your vehicle information, you can work with Carwow to agree on a reserve price. This is the minimum amount you are prepared to accept for your car.
Your vehicle is then placed into an online auction where participating dealers can view the listing and submit bids. Carwow currently says that more than 6,000 dealers can bid on vehicles listed through its service.
3. Review the Offer
Once the auction is complete, Carwow informs you about the result. If you decide to accept an offer, the dealer will contact you to arrange the next steps.
Carwow says the sale process can include free collection and payment, with the exact arrangements handled with the purchasing dealer.
4. Prepare Your Documents
Before collection, make sure you have the necessary documents and items ready. Carwow lists the following:
- V5C registration document
- Driving licence
- Service history
- Spare keys
- Finance settlement letter, if applicable
- Locking wheel nut, if applicable
Providing accurate information about the vehicle is also important because the car will be checked before the sale is completed.
How to Buy a Used Car on Carwow
Carwow also provides a used-car marketplace where buyers can browse vehicles offered by its dealer network.
1. Search for Your Car
Start by browsing the available used cars on Carwow. You can search by make and model and use filters to narrow down the available vehicles. Carwow also provides expert car reviews that can help you research different models before making a shortlist.
2. Compare the Available Cars
When you find vehicles that interest you, compare important information such as price, mileage, specifications and vehicle history.
It is also sensible to check the condition of the vehicle carefully. Carwow recommends looking for signs such as uneven tyre wear, rust, fluid leaks and problems with lights, air conditioning or electrical systems.
3. Contact the Dealer
Once you have found a suitable car, you can contact the dealer directly. You can ask questions about the vehicle and arrange a test drive before deciding whether to purchase it.
4. Complete the Purchase
When you are ready to buy, Carwow’s current used-car process allows customers to purchase at a fixed price, with flexible payment options available on applicable vehicles. Depending on the arrangement, you can choose delivery to your home or collect the vehicle from the dealership.
What Should You Check Before Buying a Used Car?
Even when buying through a dealer marketplace, it is important to carry out your own checks.
Look at the vehicle’s:
- Mileage and MOT history
- Service records
- Exterior and interior condition
- Tyres and brakes
- Lights and electrical equipment
- Previous ownership and vehicle history
- Outstanding finance or other relevant history
A test drive is also useful because it allows you to check the steering, braking, engine performance and any unusual noises. Carwow recommends a vehicle history check as part of the used-car buying process.
Can You Sell a Car With Outstanding Finance?
Carwow supports the sale of vehicles that still have outstanding finance. Sellers may need to obtain a finance settlement letter from their lender. The purchasing dealer can then help handle the outstanding finance as part of the transaction.
If you have finance on your vehicle, it is important to understand the settlement amount before accepting an offer.
Is Selling a Car on Carwow Free?
Carwow currently states that its Sell My Car service is free for sellers, with no seller admin fees or hidden selling costs. The company says sellers can enter their registration, receive a valuation and have their vehicle presented to its dealer network without paying a selling fee.
Can You Part-Exchange Your Car on Carwow?
Carwow does not currently offer traditional part exchange directly. Instead, its approach is to let you sell your existing car separately and then purchase your next vehicle through its marketplace.
This means you can complete the two transactions separately rather than relying on the dealer selling you the replacement car to value your existing vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Carwow provides a straightforward online route for people who want to buy or sell a used car in the UK. Sellers can get an online valuation, set a reserve price and have their vehicle presented to a large dealer network, while buyers can browse used cars, compare options, contact dealers and arrange a test drive.
Before selling, prepare your documents and provide accurate information about your vehicle. When buying, take time to check the car’s history, condition, mileage and service records before completing the purchase. With the right preparation, the online process can make changing cars more convenient.