How to Sell Car in Michigan

Selling a car in Michigan doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, paperwork, and pricing strategy, you can complete the sale quickly and legally. This guide walks you through every step—from cleaning your car to transferring ownership—so you can sell with confidence.

So, you’ve decided it’s time to sell your car in Michigan. Maybe you’re upgrading to something newer, downsizing, or just ready for a change. Whatever your reason, selling a vehicle can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry. With a clear plan and the right information, you can sell your car smoothly, legally, and for a fair price.

Michigan has specific rules and requirements for private car sales, and understanding them upfront saves you time, stress, and potential legal trouble. From preparing your vehicle to transferring ownership, every step matters. This guide will walk you through the entire process, offering practical tips, real-world examples, and insider advice to help you sell your car with confidence.

Whether you’re selling a sedan, SUV, truck, or even a classic car, the fundamentals remain the same. The key is preparation, honesty, and attention to detail. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll not only attract serious buyers but also protect yourself from scams and ensure a legal transfer of ownership. Let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

• Prepare your vehicle: Clean, repair minor issues, and gather maintenance records to increase value and buyer trust.
• Research fair market value: Use tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to price your car competitively based on condition, mileage, and location.
• Gather required documents: You’ll need the title, bill of sale, odometer disclosure, and a release of liability form to complete the sale legally.
• Advertise effectively: Use online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Autotrader with clear photos and honest descriptions.
• Meet buyers safely: Choose public locations, bring a friend, and verify payment before handing over the keys.
• Complete the title transfer: Sign the title correctly, submit the release of liability, and notify the Michigan Secretary of State.
• Avoid common pitfalls: Watch out for scams, incomplete payments, and improper paperwork that can delay or void the sale.

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle for Sale

Before you even think about listing your car, take time to get it in the best possible condition. First impressions matter—especially when buyers are comparing multiple vehicles. A clean, well-maintained car not only looks more appealing but also suggests it’s been cared for, which can justify a higher price.

Clean Inside and Out

Start with a thorough cleaning. Wash the exterior, wax it if possible, and clean the wheels and tires. Don’t forget the windows—clean glass makes the car look newer. Inside, vacuum the seats, carpets, and floor mats. Wipe down surfaces, remove trash, and consider using an odor eliminator if there are lingering smells from pets, smoke, or food. A fresh-smelling car is a big selling point.

If you’re on a budget, you can do most of this yourself. But if you want to go the extra mile, a professional detailing service can make your car look nearly new—and that investment often pays off in a higher sale price.

Address Minor Repairs

You don’t need to rebuild the engine, but fixing small issues can make a big difference. Replace burnt-out light bulbs, fix cracked windshield wipers, and patch small dents or scratches if it’s cost-effective. Check the tire tread and air pressure—worn tires can scare off buyers.

Even something as simple as replacing a missing hubcap or fixing a sticky door handle shows attention to detail. These small fixes signal that the car has been well-maintained and reduce buyer concerns about hidden problems.

Gather Maintenance Records

Buyers love seeing proof that a car has been properly maintained. Collect all service records, receipts for repairs, and documentation of oil changes, tire rotations, and major work like brake jobs or transmission service.

If you’ve kept a digital log or used an app to track maintenance, print it out or share it via email. This transparency builds trust and can help you justify your asking price. For example, if you’ve recently replaced the timing belt or had the transmission flushed, mention it in your listing—it’s a selling point.

Step 2: Determine the Right Price

Pricing your car correctly is one of the most important steps in the selling process. Overprice it, and you’ll scare away buyers. Underprice it, and you’ll lose money. The goal is to find that sweet spot where your car is competitive but still reflects its true value.

Use Online Valuation Tools

Start by checking reputable pricing guides like Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, or NADA Guides. These tools let you input your car’s make, model, year, mileage, condition, and location to get a fair market value.

For example, a 2018 Honda CR-V with 60,000 miles in good condition might be valued at $18,000–$20,000 in Michigan, depending on trim level and features. But remember—these are estimates. Adjust based on your car’s actual condition and local demand.

Research Local Listings

Look at similar cars for sale in your area on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Autotrader. Compare mileage, condition, features, and asking prices. If similar cars are listed at $19,500, pricing yours at $20,500 might be too high unless it has exceptional upgrades or low mileage.

Also, consider seasonal trends. Convertibles and sports cars may sell faster in spring and summer, while SUVs and trucks are in higher demand in fall and winter—especially in Michigan’s snowy climate.

Factor in Condition and Extras

Be honest about your car’s condition. If it’s in excellent shape with low mileage and recent repairs, you can price it at the higher end of the range. If it has wear and tear, high mileage, or needs work, price it lower to attract buyers.

Don’t forget to highlight valuable extras like a sunroof, leather seats, upgraded sound system, or all-wheel drive. These features can justify a higher price, especially in Michigan where AWD is a big selling point for winter driving.

Step 3: Gather the Required Paperwork

Selling a car in Michigan isn’t just about handing over the keys—it’s a legal transaction that requires proper documentation. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay the sale or even lead to liability issues down the road.

Title Transfer

The most important document is the vehicle title. In Michigan, the seller must sign the title over to the buyer. Make sure the title is free of liens—if you still owe money on the car, you’ll need to pay off the loan before selling.

If the title is lost, you can request a duplicate from the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS). You’ll need to fill out Form BTR-109 and pay a small fee. Don’t sell the car without a title—it’s illegal and could cause problems for the buyer.

Bill of Sale

While not always required, a bill of sale is highly recommended. It serves as a legal record of the transaction and includes details like the sale price, date, and both parties’ information. Michigan doesn’t have a standardized form, but you can find free templates online.

Include the vehicle identification number (VIN), odometer reading, and a statement that the car is sold “as-is” unless you’re offering a warranty. This protects you from future claims.

Odometer Disclosure

Federal law requires an odometer disclosure for vehicles under 10 years old. This confirms the mileage at the time of sale and prevents fraud. The disclosure is usually included on the title, but if not, you’ll need a separate form.

Release of Liability

After the sale, you must file a release of liability with the Michigan SOS. This protects you from being held responsible for parking tickets, accidents, or other issues after the car changes hands. You can submit it online or by mail using Form BTR-104.

Emissions and Safety Inspections

Unlike some states, Michigan does not require a safety or emissions inspection for private car sales. However, if your car is registered in certain counties (like Wayne, Oakland, or Macomb), it may need an emissions test to be registered by the new owner. Check with your local SOS office to confirm.

Step 4: Advertise Your Car Effectively

Now that your car is ready and priced, it’s time to find a buyer. The way you advertise can make or break your sale. A great listing attracts serious buyers, while a poorly written one gets ignored.

Choose the Right Platforms

Popular options include:

• Facebook Marketplace: Great for local buyers, easy to use, and free. You can share your listing in local car groups for more visibility.
• Craigslist: Still widely used, especially for older or budget cars. Be cautious of scams.
• Autotrader: Ideal for newer or higher-end vehicles. It reaches serious buyers but may charge a listing fee.
• Cars.com: Another reputable site with a large audience. Offers tools for pricing and financing.

Consider listing on multiple platforms to maximize exposure. But avoid duplicating the same ad word-for-word—customize each one slightly to avoid looking spammy.

Write a Clear, Honest Description

Your listing should include:

• Year, make, model, and trim
• Mileage and condition
• Key features (AWD, sunroof, etc.)
• Recent repairs or maintenance
• Reason for selling
• Asking price and willingness to negotiate

Be honest about any flaws. Saying “minor paint scratches on rear bumper” is better than hiding them. Buyers appreciate transparency, and it reduces the chance of disputes later.

Take High-Quality Photos

Photos are the first thing buyers see. Take pictures in good lighting—early morning or late afternoon works best. Capture the exterior from multiple angles, the interior (seats, dashboard, trunk), and close-ups of any unique features or damage.

Avoid cluttered backgrounds. A clean, well-lit photo of your car in a driveway or empty parking lot looks more professional than one taken in a messy garage.

Step 5: Handle Inquiries and Test Drives Safely

Once your listing goes live, you’ll start getting messages. Respond promptly and professionally. Answer questions clearly and be ready to schedule viewings.

Screen Potential Buyers

Ask basic questions like:

• “Are you seriously interested in buying?”
• “Do you have financing ready?”
• “Have you seen similar cars in this price range?”

This helps filter out time-wasters. If someone seems evasive or asks suspicious questions (like “Can I send a check and have you ship the car?”), it could be a scam.

Arrange Safe Meetings

Always meet in a public, well-lit place—like a police station parking lot or busy shopping center. Bring a friend or family member for safety. Never meet at your home or a remote location.

Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return. Some buyers may ask to meet at night—politely suggest daytime instead.

Supervise Test Drives

If a buyer wants to test drive the car, go with them. Bring your driver’s license and proof of insurance. Ask for their license and verify it’s valid.

During the drive, pay attention to how they handle the car. Are they respectful? Do they ask thoughtful questions? This can help you gauge their seriousness.

Step 6: Complete the Sale and Transfer Ownership

Once you’ve found a buyer and agreed on a price, it’s time to finalize the sale. This step is crucial—don’t skip it.

Accept Secure Payment

Cash is the safest option for private sales. If the amount is large, meet at a bank so the buyer can withdraw cash in front of you.

Avoid personal checks, money orders, or wire transfers—they can bounce or be fraudulent. If the buyer insists on a check, wait for it to clear before handing over the keys.

Sign the Title Correctly

On the title, fill in the buyer’s name, address, sale price, and odometer reading. Sign in the designated area. Make sure the buyer signs too.

If there’s a lienholder listed, you’ll need their signature as well. Double-check everything—mistakes can delay registration.

Provide a Bill of Sale

Hand over the completed bill of sale. Keep a copy for your records.

Remove License Plates

In Michigan, license plates stay with the seller, not the car. Remove them before the buyer drives away. You can reuse them on another vehicle or return them to the SOS.

Notify the Secretary of State

Within 10 days of the sale, submit the release of liability form (BTR-104) to the Michigan SOS. This can be done online, by mail, or in person.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Even with the best preparation, sellers often make avoidable errors. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Selling without a title: Always have a clear title before listing.
• Accepting fake payments: Only accept cash or verified funds.
• Skipping the release of liability: This leaves you legally exposed.
• Overpricing: Be realistic about your car’s value.
• Meeting in unsafe locations: Prioritize your safety at all times.

Selling a car in Michigan doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right preparation, you can complete the process smoothly, legally, and profitably. Take your time, follow the steps, and don’t rush into a deal that doesn’t feel right.

When done correctly, selling your car can be a rewarding experience—both financially and emotionally. You’ll walk away with cash in hand and the satisfaction of a job well done. And who knows? That next car might be just around the corner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a bill of sale to sell a car in Michigan?

While not legally required, a bill of sale is highly recommended. It protects both buyer and seller by documenting the sale price, date, and vehicle details.

Can I sell my car if I still owe money on it?

No, you must pay off the loan first. Contact your lender to get a payoff amount and arrange to clear the debt before selling.

Do I need to provide a warranty when selling privately?

No, private sales in Michigan are typically “as-is,” meaning the buyer accepts the car in its current condition. You’re not required to offer a warranty.

How long do I have to report the sale to the Michigan SOS?

You must submit the release of liability form within 10 days of the sale to avoid future liability.

Can I sell my car without a title?

No, you need a valid title to transfer ownership. If lost, request a duplicate from the Michigan Secretary of State.

What happens if the buyer doesn’t register the car?

Once you file the release of liability, you’re no longer responsible. However, encourage the buyer to register promptly to avoid penalties.