So, you’ve decided it’s time to part ways with your car. Well we know what you’re thinking: how do I get the most money for my car without getting overwhelmed in the process?

This guide breaks down everything you need to know to sell your car from how to prepare your vehicle to choosing the right place to sell it. We’ll also share tips to help you walk away with the best possible deal.

Before you hand over the keys, a bit of prep can go a long way in increasing your car’s value. Here’s how to get started.

Know your car’s market value

Just like how you’d check property prices before selling your HDB, knowing your car’s current value is key. Use platforms like:

• sgCarMart

• Carsnap

• Motorist.sg

These sites give you instant valuations based on your car’s make, model, year, mileage and importantly, your COE (Certificate of Entitlement) and Preferential Additional Registration Fee (PARF)/Additional Registration Fee (ARF) rebates.

Take some time to present your car in its best light

First impressions matter, even for cars.

Give your car a deep clean inside and out. If you're tight on time, car grooming services in Singapore start from around $20 and include services like polishing, vacuuming, and even engine bay cleaning.

Replace worn-out tyres, touch up minor scratches, and make sure things like headlights and air-con are working well. A small investment here could translate into a higher sale price.

Provide a detailed description of your car

If you’re listing your car privately, take good photos. Aim for:

• Wide shots (front, side, rear)

• Close-ups of key features (dashboard, mileage, tyres, boot space)

• Show the LTA plate clearly

In your description, include:

• Year of registration

• Mileage

• COE expiry date

• Service history

• Number of previous owners

• Any modifications you’ve made (e.g. sport rims, leather seats)

• Accident-free status (if true)

Think of it like creating a property listing.The more details you provide, the more confidence buyers will have.

Once your car’s ready, it’s time to decide where to list or who to approach. Each option has its pros and cons depending on your timeline and price expectations.

Sell your car to an individual or private party

Know someone who’s looking for a new ride? Selling your car to a friend could be a straightforward win-win. If not, and you value convenience, online car retailers are another option worth considering.

Top platforms:

• Carousell

• Facebook Marketplace

• sgCarMart

» MORE: How to Sell Your Car Online in Singapore

Sell to an online used car retailer

In Singapore, there are several used car dealers you can approach to sell your car that appeal to buyers looking for more affordable options. If convenience is your top priority, online car retailers provide a smoother, hassle-free selling process.

Top platforms:

• Carsnap: Known for fast turnaround, offers are usually given within 24 hours with minimal documentation required. 

• Carro: Uses AI-based valuation to offer a fair market price and supports trade-in options when buying your next car.

• Motorist.sg: Connects your listing to a network of dealers who bid on your car, helping you find the best price.

• sgCarMart Quotz: A bidding platform that sends your car to over 500 dealers for competitive offers. 

Sell to a traditional car dealership

If you’re looking for speed and minimal hassle, selling your car to a traditional dealership is one of the most straightforward options, especially if you’re planning to upgrade to a new car.

Here are some tips to make sure you get the most out of your sale: 

• Use online offers as leverage: Before stepping into a showroom, get quotes from online platforms like Carro, Carsnap, or Motorist.sg. Use these to negotiate a better deal from the dealer, especially if your car is in good condition or in demand.

• COE rebate: If your car still has time left on its COE, the unused portion becomes a rebate. Make sure the dealer includes this in your final payout or offsets it against your new purchase.

Selling your car in Singapore no longer means settling for the first offer at your neighbourhood dealership. Whether you're planning an upgrade, relocating overseas, or embracing a car-free lifestyle, a little preparation can go a long way in getting you the best deal. 

Begin by collecting quotes from at least three to five platforms. This not only gives you a clearer picture of your car’s true value, but also strengthens your hand in negotiations. With just a bit more time and effort, you could walk away with some extra cash in your pocket.