Motorway alternatives: other ways to sell your car

Planning to sell your car? This guide breaks down the quickest, easiest ways to sell – and how to get the best possible price.

Motorway is a website where you can sell your car directly to a network of over 7,500 verified dealers. You go online, tell them what car you have, and get an estimated value. The car is then listed in a daily online auction where dealers place bids. Once you choose the best offer, a dealer will collect the car from you and you’ll get paid the same day.

It’s a simple and quick way to sell your car. However, Motorway isn’t the only way to sell your car. There are plenty of other options that can help you get a great price. While Motorway only lets you sell your car, sites like Carwow let you buy and sell in one place, giving you a seamless car-changing experience.

Not sure how to sell your car? Here are the different options to help you decide what’s best for you.

Remember, you can sell your car right here on Carwow, for free. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

Selling your car to an online car buying website

You can sell your car through a variety of marketplaces, such as Carwow’s Sell My Car service, which connects you with professional dealers and streamlines the selling process. In fact, Carwow allows you to complete the whole car-changing process – from selling your old car to finding your next one – in one place.

How it works

While the process varies by site, it generally involves creating a listing for your car, including photos that show any relevant details such as mileage or damage. Some websites run an online auction where dealers bid on your car, while others give you a direct offer. Once you accept an offer, the dealer usually arranges collection, though on some sites it’s up to you to organise pickup.

Fees and costs

Some platforms may charge fees for listing your car or for collection. However, Carwow’s Sell My Car service is completely free for sellers, and the dealer who buys your car will collect it at no cost.

Selling your car privately

You can sell your car on your own through platforms such as Auto Trader or Facebook Marketplace.

How it works

Typically, selling privately involves uploading photos of your car, writing a description, and filling in all the necessary information. After that, you wait for potential buyers to see your ad and contact you to arrange a viewing.

Selling privately can sometimes get you the best price, but it comes with downsides: dealing with haggling, repeated viewings, time-wasters, and safely handling a large payment.

Fees and costs

Some websites charge to publish your ad. For example, Auto Trader currently costs between £37 and £75 depending on how long your ad runs. Advertising on multiple paid platforms or boosting your listing for extra visibility can increase costs. Free platforms such as Facebook Marketplace are an alternative, but may reach fewer buyers.

Selling your car to a dealership

Selling your car to a dealership is an easy way to get rid of your car. Dealers are usually willing to buy cars they can resell for a profit.

How it works

It’s rare to sell a car directly by just walking into a dealership. Most private sellers trade in their car when getting another vehicle. The dealer will offer a value for your car, which is convenient and fast, but usually means you won’t get as much as you might on the private market.

Fees and costs

Selling to a dealer or using part-exchange is generally free. It’s still a good idea to ask for a breakdown of any fees, just in case there’s something you want to question.

Selling your car at auction

Car auctions let people bid on your car, either in person or online.

How it works

You contact an auction house and get an estimated valuation. Your car is photographed and listed for auction. During the auction, bidders compete, and the highest bid wins. You can set a reserve (minimum price), but if it isn’t met, your car won’t sell – meaning time and effort could be wasted.

Fees and costs

Expect to pay an upfront entry or listing fee, usually between £30 and £100, plus a commission of 5-10% of the final sale price. If your car doesn’t meet its reserve price, you may also be charged a handling fee of around £15-30.

Selling your car for scrap

Selling your car for scrap should usually be a last resort. If your car is still roadworthy, you’ll almost always get more by selling it privately. Scrapping is mainly for vehicles that need expensive repairs or are no longer safe to drive.

How it works

To scrap a car, you must use an authorised treatment facility (ATF). They usually collect the car for you, and while some may offer payment, it must be via bank transfer or cheque – cash isn’t allowed.
Once your car is scrapped, you’ll get a certificate of destruction to prove it’s been disposed of properly. You must also inform the DVLA so you’re no longer liable for road tax or other fees.

Fees and costs

Scrapping your car through this official process shouldn’t cost you anything.

Selling your car with Carwow

Selling your car through Carwow is fast, free, and secure. Your car goes into an online auction with over 6,000 trusted dealers, often earning a high price within 24 hours, with free collection, quick payment, no fees, and the option to sell cars with outstanding finance.
Here’s what happens:

1. Enter your number plate to get an instant valuation.
2. Upload a few photos of your car – the prompts on the page will guide you.
3. Our team will help you complete your listing and set a reserve price you’re happy with.
4. Your car goes into an auction where dealers place bids, helping you get the best possible price.
5. Once it’s sold, your car is collected for free and you’ll get paid.

Carwow also offers in-depth car reviews and great deals on new or used cars, so you can sort your next vehicle in the same place – whether you’re buying new, used, or leasing.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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