How to Sell a Used Auto on Craigslist

Craigslist is a good place to privately sell an automobile.

Craigslist is a useful site for anyone wanting to sell used items to make some money. It is free to post an ad on Craigslist, and the site features a section specifically for used cars and trucks. Before posting an ad on Craigslist it is a good idea to do research about the value of your auto and make sure you have paperwork that shows the car's history should the buyer request it.

Instructions

1. Research the market value of your auto. Take into account such factors as the year and make of your vehicle, as well as its condition and the number of miles on the odometer. Look at comparable listings on Craigslist and other used auto sites. Visit a used car dealership to browse comparable vehicles.

2. Visit the website of your local Craigslist. Craigslist has sites specific to several major cities, with the website format "cityname.craigslist.com." For example, the Los Angeles Craigslist website is http://losangeles.craigslist.com.

3. Click on the "cars+trucks" link under the "for sale" heading. Click the "Post" link on the top right-hand corner of the page.

4. Choose "cars+trucks - by owner" in the list of categories. Choose the area nearest to you from the list of areas.

5. Write a catchy title for your Craigslist ad. For example, you may wish to to highlight the auto's make, year and number of miles. You may also wish to use phrases such as "great buy" or "must see" in the title. Enter the asking price of your auto next to the title.

6. Enter your email address and choose the "anonymize" option. This will prevent your email address from being publicly revealed but will not prevent you from receiving email inquiries through the site.

7. Compose the remainder of your ad. Highlight the reasons to buy your vehicle. You may also wish to upload a picture of the auto by clicking the "Add/Edit Images" link. When you have finished composing the ad, click "Continue" and read the Craigslist Terms of Use. If they're agreeable to you, click "Accept."

Tips & Warnings

• Ensure you maintain your privacy when corresponding with people who respond to the ad. Do not reveal any personal information about yourself until you are certain you have a serious buyer.

References

• Craigslist Los Angeles: Classifieds

Resources

• Craigslist: Safety