Where to Sell Used Cars in Vancouver
Selling your used car in Vancouver can feel like a balancing act between convenience, price,
and peace of mind. Whether you want to sell fast or get the best offer possible, there are several
reliable routes available in British Columbia. This guide covers the most trusted ways to sell a
used car in Vancouver, from private listings and dealer programs to instant cash offers and
scrap options — plus insider tips on paperwork, taxes, and avoiding scams.
1. Understand Your Selling Options
Before listing or trading in your vehicle, it’s essential to understand the four main ways to sell a
used car in Vancouver:
a) Private Sale (DIY Listing)
A private sale gives you full control over pricing, negotiation, and presentation. Platforms like
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist Vancouver, and AutoTrader make it easy to reach
thousands of local buyers for free or a small listing fee.
Pros:
● Highest potential payout.
● You control the price and buyer selection.
Cons:
● Requires time for messaging, showings, and test drives.
● Must handle paperwork and safety precautions personally.
Private listings work best if your vehicle is well-maintained, in demand, and you’re comfortable
managing the transaction yourself.
b) Sell or Trade to a Licensed Dealer
Licensed car dealerships in Vancouver (like Variety Auto Sales and others) will either buy your
used vehicle outright or accept it as a trade-in toward your next purchase. This option offers
professional handling and faster completion.
Pros:
● Quick and secure process handled by professionals.
● Dealers handle all ICBC transfer paperwork and inspections.
● Safer than meeting private strangers.
Cons:
● Trade-in or purchase offers are usually lower than private sale value.
Selling to a VSA-licensed dealer also protects you under the Motor Dealer Act, ensuring
transparency and compliance with provincial regulations.
c) Instant Cash and Online Buying Services
Online platforms like Clutch, Canada Drives, and Autozen are changing the way people sell
cars. They provide instant offers, online appraisals, and home pickup services.
Pros:
● Quick sale — often within 24–48 hours.
● No need to meet multiple buyers.
● Payment handled electronically.
Cons:
● Typically 5–15% lower payouts than a private sale.
If time is your top priority, these services strike a good balance between convenience and fair
value.
d) Scrap, Donate, or Recycle Your Vehicle
If your car is beyond repair or has minimal resale value, programs like BC SCRAP-IT offer
incentives for retiring older vehicles responsibly. The program provides up to $300 cash (as of
2025) when you recycle through approved facilities. Some charities also accept donated
vehicles, offering tax receipts.
Best for:
● Vehicles over 10 years old or not running.
● Cars with repair costs exceeding resale value.
2. BC Paperwork and Legal Requirements
Vehicle Registration & Transfer Forms
In British Columbia, sellers must complete an APV9T Transfer/Tax Form, available from any
Autoplan broker. The seller and buyer both sign the form in ink — no photocopies or scans are
accepted.
The licence plates stay with the seller, not the vehicle. Remove your plates after the sale,
cancel insurance, and keep a copy of the registration for your records.
Buyers have 10 days to register the vehicle in their name and pay the applicable taxes at their
Autoplan broker.
Taxes and Fees
● Private Sale: 12% PST on the sale price or market value (whichever is greater).
● Dealer Sale: Buyer pays 7% PST + 5% GST on purchase.
Make sure both parties complete the paperwork properly to avoid issues with ICBC or future
liability.
3. Selling Privately: Marketplace & Craigslist Tips
Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist Vancouver dominate local private
car sales. While they offer great exposure, they also require caution and preparation.
Facebook Marketplace Best Practices
● Use high-quality photos: Capture clear, daylight shots of all angles, plus interior and
odometer.
● Be honest in your description: Mention any scratches, accidents, or maintenance
records.
● Price smartly: Compare similar listings in Vancouver; aim for slightly above your
minimum price to allow negotiation.
● Screen buyers carefully: Confirm interest before meeting; ask if they’re pre-approved
or serious about a test drive.
● Meet safely: Prefer daytime meetups at public locations or your local police detachment
parking lot.
Craigslist Vancouver Tips
● Avoid reposting too often; it may flag your listing.
● Include detailed keywords in your title: e.g., “2015 Honda Civic LX – One Owner, No
Accidents – Burnaby/Vancouver.”
● Watch for scammers: Ignore buyers who offer over the asking price or request wire
transfers.
● Use a bill of sale: Always finalize the transaction with a signed copy listing buyer/seller
info, VIN, price, and date.
Pro Tip: Always keep a copy of your Bill of Sale and the buyer’s driver’s licence photo (or
licence number) in case of disputes.
4. How to Get the Best Value for Your Used Car
Selling a car for top dollar comes down to presentation, pricing, and trust.
a) Clean and Detail the Vehicle
Invest in a professional wash, interior detailing, and minor touch-ups. First impressions matter
— even a clean floor mat can raise perceived value.
b) Gather Maintenance Records
Show proof of oil changes, tire rotations, and major repairs. Buyers trust documented cars more
than vague claims of “regular maintenance.”
c) Take Professional Photos
Shoot your car in natural light from multiple angles: front, side, rear, dashboard, and engine bay.
A good photo set increases inquiries dramatically.
d) Write a Clear, Informative Description
Include year, make, model, mileage, ownership history, and highlights (e.g., “one owner,” “no
accidents,” “winter tires included”). Avoid jargon and write naturally.
e) Set a Fair Asking Price
Research local market values using AutoTrader, Canadian Black Book, or Kelley Blue Book
Canada. Expect buyers to negotiate — most cars sell within 3–5% of their market value.
5. Avoiding Scams and Legal Risks
Watch Out for Curbers
“Curbers” are unlicensed sellers who pose as private owners but flip multiple vehicles illegally.
These cars often have hidden issues or incomplete paperwork. Verify the seller’s (or buyer’s)
identity and ownership through ICBC or Carfax Canada.
Payment Safety
Accept certified cheques or bank drafts issued at the buyer’s bank in your presence. Avoid
e-transfers or cheques mailed from out of province.
Personal Safety
Always meet in well-lit, public locations. Bring a friend or family member to test drives. Trust
your instincts — if something feels off, walk away.
6. When to Choose a Dealer Instead
Selling to a reputable, licensed dealer may be your best option if:
● You don’t want to handle negotiations or test drives.
● Your car still has financing owing (dealers can clear liens directly).
● You need a fast, guaranteed sale.
Dealers often have access to wider buyer networks and can resell vehicles quickly, offering a
fair trade-in or cash price without hassle.
7. Vancouver’s Local Vehicle Market Trends (2025)
● SUVs and crossovers remain the top-selling used vehicles in BC, particularly compact
models like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
● EV demand continues to rise; used electric vehicles are fetching record resale values
due to new car shortages.
● Private sales have rebounded after 2020, but dealer-certified used cars remain
popular for buyers seeking warranties and vehicle history.
Knowing these trends can help you position your listing competitively and set realistic
expectations.
8. Step-by-Step Checklist for Selling Your Used Car
1. Gather documents: Registration, APV9T form, maintenance records, and Bill of Sale.
2. Clean and photograph: Capture your car’s best features in daylight.
3. Set your asking price: Based on comparable listings.
4. List online or visit dealers: Choose between DIY, instant offer, or dealership sale.
5. Meet safely and finalize paperwork.
6. Remove plates and cancel insurance.
9. Final Thoughts
Selling your used car in Vancouver doesn’t have to be stressful — as long as you know your
options. Private listings give you more control and higher profits, while dealer programs and
online instant buyers provide speed and simplicity. Whatever route you choose, handle
paperwork correctly, meet safely, and use trusted platforms.
By following the right steps and understanding BC’s vehicle laws, you’ll not only sell your car
quickly but also protect yourself and your buyer — making the transaction smooth, legal, and
rewarding.
