Navigating the Private Car Sale: A Comprehensive Guide for Buyers and Sellers in the UK

Introduction

Thinking of buying a used car from someone rather than a dealership? Great! But make sure you know what you’re getting into. This guide will walk you through what you need to know about your rights and what to expect when buying a used car from a private seller.

Pros and Cons of Buying from a Private Seller

A brand-new car’s value drops like a rock in the first year – between 15% and 35%, and it could lose 50% or more in three years. So, getting a used car can save you some serious cash. But buying from a private seller is a bit trickier than from a dealership. There are no warranties, no breakdown cover, and you need to know your rights as a buyer.

Pros of Buying a Car Privately

1. Cheaper prices
2. No annoying upselling
3. Get a feel for the car

Cons of Buying a Car Privately

1. Haggling hassles
2. You need to know what to look for
3. Fewer buyer’s rights

Legal Rights When Buying a Used Car from a Private Seller

Now let’s talk about your legal rights when buying a used car privately:

1. The seller must legally be able to sell the car
2. The car must be as described
3. The car must be roadworthy

Keep in mind, buying a car privately requires extra vigilance. If you’re not comfortable inspecting the car yourself, consider getting a friend who’s good with cars or a mechanic from a motoring organization to help you out.

Guide to Selling a Car Privately in the UK

If you’re selling your car privately, you want it to be in good shape and reasonably priced. Here’s how you can sell your car quickly and without stress:

1. Prep your car for sale
2. Price it right
3. Create a killer ad

Remember to never let a buyer test drive the car alone and make sure they have their driver’s license and proof of insurance. Don’t hand over the keys until you have the cash or proof of payment.

Concluding the Sale

After selling the car, fill out the ‘new keeper’ section of the V5C logbook, sign it with the buyer, and let them keep the small V5C/2 section. Confirm the car sale with DVLA by posting the remaining part of the V5C or by using DVLA’s online system.

How does the private used car your thinking of buying compare to ones from dealers?

While we at carsnitch don’t list any cars from private sellers, you may want to know how the cars you’re looking at buying from a private seller compares to what you would get from a dealer. You can enter the cars reg, price and mileage into Carsnitch here and we’ll automatically compare that car to ones you can get at dealers.

Prefer to buy from a dealer?

Would you rather buy from a dealer? You can search and compare dealers and cars at Carsnitch.