Selling a damaged car as-is
Dents, hail, a cracked bumper, a check-engine light that never goes off. Most damage costs a buyer less to fix than it costs you, which is why selling as-is usually beats repairing first.
We’re an independent guide, not the buyer. Offers come from Peddle, a nationwide car-buying service, and we may earn a referral fee when you sell through our form.
What moves the offer
- Cosmetic vs mechanical
- Body damage on a car that drives well is a much smaller deduction than a slipping transmission.
- Warning lights
- Say which ones are on. Check-engine, airbag and ABS lights all mean different things.
- Tires and glass
- Bald tires and a cracked windshield are small but real deductions.
Say this on the offer form
Offers are adjusted at pickup when the car doesn’t match the description. Be specific about:
- Each damaged panel or area
- Warning lights on the dash
- Known mechanical issues
- Whether it starts and drives normally
Per Peddle, an updated offer is made when there’s a discrepancy, and you can decline it. Don’t sign the title until you’re happy with the number in front of you.
Worth knowing
Photos help you, not just the buyer. Take a walk-around set the day before pickup, in daylight, so there’s no argument about what was already there.
Paperwork
You’ll need the title in your name, a photo ID, and every key you have. If there’s a loan on the car, read selling a car with a loan first. Can’t find the title? Start with our no-title guide. After pickup, follow the after-you-sell checklist.
Questions
Should I fix the dents before selling?
Usually not. Paintless dent repair can make sense on a newer car going to a private buyer; on an instant offer, the deduction for dents is typically less than the repair bill.
Not quite your situation?
Find out what it’s worth today.
About a dozen questions, an offer on screen, and no obligation to take it. If you accept, Peddle’s towing partner comes to you and pays by check at pickup.