Should I Sell My Car to a Dealership or Privately in Indiana?

Indianapolis and Avon shoppers have so many options when they’re looking to buy a used car. But what options do they have when they want to sell their used car? If you’re looking to recoup some of the investment you’ve made in your vehicle you should compare working with a car dealer vs. private seller. Below, Lafayette Volkswagen will take a look at the pros and cons of buying and selling with a car dealer vs. private seller. While you can find some great deals with private sales, ultimately we think you’ll see how working with a dealership has more benefits than working with private sellers. 

Buying from a Private Seller: Pros & Cons 

Pros:

• First-Hand Experience: A private seller who’s spent a few years driving their vehicle in Noblesville can share their knowledge with you, assuming they’re completely honest and have a good understanding of vehicles. 
• Niche Finds: If you’re looking for a specific make and model that doesn’t turn up on used car lots very often, you might have better luck finding what you want through a private seller, especially if you’re shopping for a classic or collector car. 

Cons:

• No Warranty Coverage: A private seller won’t be able to offer you warranty coverage in case something goes wrong with your purchase. As soon as you have the bill of sale, you’ll become responsible for any repairs on that vehicle, even if it breaks down the same day you bought it. With a dealership, you can shop for a warranty-covered certified pre-owned car if you want the assurance that you’re not going to be stuck with repair costs soon. 
• Questionable Record-Keeping: Buying from a private seller can mean not having an accurate record of repairs and maintenance that have been performed on the vehicle. 

Buying from a Dealership: Pros & Cons 

Pros: 

• Competitive Prices/Wide Selection: Private sellers can pull a price out of thin air, while dealerships price their used vehicles according to current market value. You can see how much dealers in Lafayette have charged for used cars by checking Cars.com or Kelley Blue Book. You’ll want that information if you choose to go with a private seller. 
• Service & Parts Centers: It’s easy to keep your used car in great condition for years to come with our service center. Our certified technicians have worked with your used car since it arrived at our dealership. 
• Certified Pre-Owned Inventory: We mentioned this option earlier, but let’s delve deeper: Certified Pre-Owned Volkswagen vehicles are pre-owned but include warranty coverage, roadside assistance, special CPO financing, and more. 
• Trade-Ins: When you buy from a dealership, there’s a good chance they want to buy your old vehicle. You can get a value estimate on your current vehicle, trade it in, and then put your earnings toward the price of the car you want to buy. 

Cons: 

• Financing: While the most cost-effective way to buy a car is to pay in cash, and that’s how many private seller deals are made, many drivers will need financing to pay for their next vehicle. Our in-house finance department can help with every financial aspect of your transaction. 

Trade Your Vehicle to Lafayette Volkswagen and Save! 

When you shop for a used vehicle at Lafayette Volkswagen you’ll have a great selection to choose from, and professional sales associates who can answer all your questions. You can’t get that from a private seller. We also offer used vehicle deals that you won’t find in the online ads. So bring your old car to us and trade it for a new-to-you model, knowing that you’re getting the best deal!