Sell Car to Autonation

Selling your car to AutoNation is a fast, transparent, and stress-free way to get cash for your vehicle—whether it’s new, used, or even damaged. With over 300 locations nationwide, instant online offers, and same-day payment options, AutoNation simplifies the car-selling process so you can move on with confidence.

So, you’ve decided it’s time to part ways with your car. Maybe it’s got too many miles, needs expensive repairs, or you’re ready for an upgrade. Whatever the reason, selling a car can feel overwhelming—especially if you’ve never done it before. Between listing it online, meeting strangers for test drives, haggling over price, and dealing with paperwork, the process can take weeks (or even months). But what if there was a simpler, faster, and more secure way?

That’s where selling your car to AutoNation comes in. AutoNation isn’t just a dealership—it’s America’s largest automotive retailer, with over 300 locations across the country. And one of the services they offer is buying used cars directly from individuals. Whether your car is in great shape, has a few dings, or won’t even start, AutoNation may still make you an offer. The best part? You can get a quote online in under five minutes, and if you accept, you could walk away with cash or a cashier’s check the same day.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selling your car to AutoNation—from how the process works, what to expect, tips to maximize your offer, and how it compares to other selling methods. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to make the smartest choice for your situation.

Key Takeaways

• Instant Online Valuation: Get a no-obligation offer in minutes using AutoNation’s online tool by entering your VIN, mileage, and condition.
• Hassle-Free Process: Skip private listings, test drives, and negotiations—sell directly to a trusted dealer with minimal paperwork.
• Fair Market Pricing: AutoNation uses real-time market data to ensure competitive offers based on your car’s actual value.
• Same-Day Payment: Once you accept the offer, you can receive payment the same day—no waiting for checks or bank transfers.
• Accepts All Vehicle Types: From sedans and SUVs to trucks and even non-running cars, AutoNation buys a wide range of vehicles.
• Trade-In Alternative: If you’re buying a new car, selling to AutoNation can be faster and more convenient than trading in.
• Trusted Nationwide Brand: As America’s largest automotive retailer, AutoNation offers reliability and customer support you can count on.

Why Sell Your Car to AutoNation?

Let’s face it—selling a car privately can be a headache. You have to take photos, write a detailed description, post it on multiple platforms, respond to dozens of messages (some from scammers), schedule test drives, and negotiate with buyers who may lowball you. And even after all that, there’s no guarantee you’ll get a fair price or close the deal quickly.

AutoNation offers a refreshing alternative. Instead of dealing with the uncertainty of private sales, you’re selling to a reputable company with a proven track record. Here are some of the top reasons people choose to sell their cars to AutoNation:

Speed and Convenience

Time is money—and selling to AutoNation saves you both. The entire process can be completed in a single day. You start by getting an online valuation, then schedule an appointment at a nearby location, bring your car in for inspection, and walk out with payment. No waiting weeks for a buyer to appear.

No Need for Repairs or Cleaning

Unlike private buyers who often expect a car in near-perfect condition, AutoNation buys cars “as-is.” That means you don’t have to spend hundreds (or thousands) on detailing, paint touch-ups, or mechanical fixes just to make it sellable. They’ll assess the car’s condition and make an offer based on its actual state.

Safe and Secure Transaction

When you sell privately, you’re inviting strangers to your home or meeting them in parking lots—sometimes with cash in hand. That can be risky. With AutoNation, the transaction happens at a secure dealership with staff present. You don’t have to worry about fraud, bounced checks, or unsafe encounters.

Competitive Offers Based on Real Data

AutoNation uses up-to-date market data, including Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and auction prices, to determine your car’s value. This ensures your offer is fair and reflective of current market conditions. Plus, their system accounts for factors like mileage, trim level, accident history, and regional demand.

Ideal for Trade-In Avoidance

Many people trade in their old car when buying a new one. But trade-in values are often lower than what you’d get selling directly. Selling to AutoNation gives you more control over the price and can result in a better payout—especially if you’re not in a rush to buy immediately.

How the AutoNation Car Buying Process Works

Selling your car to AutoNation is designed to be straightforward and transparent. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:

Step 1: Get an Online Valuation

Start by visiting AutoNation’s official “Sell Your Car” page. You’ll be asked to enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), current mileage, and a few details about the car’s condition—such as whether it has any mechanical issues, accidents, or cosmetic damage. The system will then generate an instant, no-obligation offer.

For example, let’s say you have a 2018 Honda Accord with 60,000 miles, minor wear on the interior, and no major accidents. After entering your info, AutoNation might offer you $14,500. This number is based on similar cars recently sold at their dealerships and current market trends.

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment

If you’re happy with the initial offer, the next step is to schedule an appointment at your nearest AutoNation location. You can do this online or by calling the dealership directly. Most locations offer flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate your schedule.

Tip: Call ahead to confirm they’re currently buying cars and to ask about any required documents. This will save you time on the day of your visit.

Step 3: Bring Your Car In for Inspection

On the day of your appointment, bring your car to the dealership. A trained appraiser will inspect the vehicle to verify the information you provided online. They’ll check the exterior, interior, engine, tires, and test drive it if possible.

Don’t worry—this isn’t a pass/fail inspection. The goal is to confirm the car’s condition so they can finalize the offer. If there are discrepancies (like undisclosed damage), the offer may be adjusted—but it won’t be canceled outright.

Step 4: Review and Accept the Final Offer

After the inspection, you’ll receive a final offer. This may be the same as your online quote or slightly different based on the physical assessment. You’re under no obligation to accept—but if you do, the process moves quickly.

Step 5: Complete the Paperwork and Get Paid

Once you accept, AutoNation will handle all the paperwork, including the title transfer and release of liability. You’ll need to bring:

– Your car’s title (signed over to AutoNation)
– Valid government-issued ID
– Proof of insurance (to cancel your policy after the sale)
– Any remaining loan payoff information (if applicable)

If you still owe money on the car, AutoNation can pay off the lender directly and give you the remaining balance (if any). This is especially helpful if you’re underwater on your loan.

After everything is signed, you’ll receive payment—usually in the form of a cashier’s check or bank transfer. Some locations may even offer same-day electronic payment.

What Types of Cars Does AutoNation Buy?

One of the biggest misconceptions about selling to dealerships is that they only want clean, low-mileage vehicles. While it’s true that newer, well-maintained cars tend to get higher offers, AutoNation buys a wide variety of vehicles—including ones that might be hard to sell privately.

Used Cars in Good Condition

This is the most common category. If your car runs well, has reasonable mileage, and doesn’t have major damage, you’ll likely get a strong offer. Popular models like Toyota Camrys, Honda CR-Vs, and Ford F-150s are especially in demand.

High-Mileage Vehicles

Even if your car has 100,000+ miles, AutoNation may still make an offer. They know that many high-mileage cars still have life left—especially if they’ve been well-maintained. For instance, a 2015 Subaru Outback with 120,000 miles and a clean service history could still fetch $8,000–$10,000.

Cars with Minor Damage

Dings, scratches, worn upholstery, and small mechanical issues won’t disqualify your car. AutoNation factors these into their offer, but they’re often willing to buy anyway. For example, a 2017 Nissan Altima with a cracked windshield and a check engine light might still get $9,000.

Non-Running or Salvage Title Cars

Yes, AutoNation even buys cars that don’t run or have salvage titles. These vehicles are typically resold at auction or used for parts. While the offer will be lower, it’s still a better option than paying to tow it to a junkyard. A non-running 2010 Dodge Charger with a blown engine might get $1,500–$2,500.

Leased Vehicles

If you’re leasing a car and want to sell it before the lease ends, AutoNation can help. They’ll work with your leasing company to pay off the remaining balance and take ownership. This can be a smart move if your car is worth more than the lease payoff amount.

Tips to Maximize Your Offer

While AutoNation makes the process easy, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of getting the best possible offer:

Be Honest About Your Car’s Condition

Don’t exaggerate or hide issues. If you say your car has no accidents but the appraiser finds frame damage, your offer could be reduced—or worse, canceled. Honesty builds trust and ensures a smoother transaction.

Gather Maintenance Records

While not required, bringing service records can help justify a higher offer. It shows the car has been well cared for, which can offset high mileage or minor wear.

Clean the Car (But Don’t Overdo It)

A quick wash and vacuum can make a good impression, but you don’t need to spend $200 on professional detailing. AutoNation knows the car will be reconditioned before resale, so focus on making it presentable—not perfect.

Remove Personal Items

Clear out all personal belongings, including garage door openers, phone chargers, and documents. Not only is this courteous, but it also prevents accidental loss.

Check for Aftermarket Modifications

If you’ve added performance parts, custom wheels, or a new stereo, let the appraiser know. Some mods can increase value, while others (like lifted suspensions or loud exhausts) may actually decrease it.

Time Your Sale Right

Demand for certain vehicles fluctuates with the seasons. For example, SUVs and trucks tend to sell better in winter, while convertibles and sports cars peak in spring and summer. If you’re not in a rush, consider waiting for a more favorable market.

AutoNation vs. Other Selling Options

When it comes to selling your car, you have several options: private sale, trade-in, online car buyers (like CarMax or Carvana), or selling to a dealership like AutoNation. Each has pros and cons.

Private Sale

Pros: Potentially higher sale price, full control over negotiation.
Cons: Time-consuming, safety risks, no guarantee of sale, must handle title transfer and advertising.

Private sales can net you 10–20% more than a dealer offer, but they require significant effort. You’ll spend hours responding to messages, meeting buyers, and dealing with paperwork. And if your car doesn’t sell quickly, you might end up lowering the price anyway.

Trade-In

Pros: Convenient if buying a new car, no need to find a buyer.
Cons: Typically lower offer, dealer may inflate new car price to offset trade-in value.

Trading in is easy, but you’re likely leaving money on the table. Dealers need to make a profit when they resell your car, so they’ll offer less than market value.

Online Car Buyers (CarMax, Carvana, etc.)

Pros: Fast, convenient, nationwide service.
Cons: Offers may be lower than private sale, limited negotiation.

Companies like CarMax and Carvana offer instant quotes and home pickup, but their offers are often slightly lower than what you’d get from a local dealer like AutoNation—especially if your car has unique features or high demand.

Selling to AutoNation

Pros: Fast, secure, fair offers, accepts a wide range of vehicles, same-day payment.
Cons: Offer may be slightly lower than private sale, requires in-person visit.

AutoNation strikes a great balance between convenience and value. You get a competitive offer without the hassle of private selling, and the process is backed by a trusted national brand.

Common Misconceptions About Selling to AutoNation

Despite its popularity, there are still some myths about selling your car to AutoNation. Let’s clear them up:

“They Only Buy Perfect Cars”

False. AutoNation buys cars in all conditions—from mint to salvage. They’re in the business of reselling, so they know how to value even damaged vehicles.

“The Online Offer Is Final”

Not necessarily. The online quote is an estimate based on the info you provide. The final offer may change after the physical inspection, but it’s usually close.

“I Have to Buy a Car From Them”

Absolutely not. Selling your car to AutoNation is completely independent of any purchase. You’re free to walk away with your money and buy your next car anywhere.

“It Takes Weeks to Get Paid”

No way. Most customers receive payment the same day—often within hours of accepting the offer.

“They Lowball Everyone”

While dealers aim to make a profit, AutoNation’s offers are based on real market data. If your car is in high demand, you’ll get a fair price. And remember—you’re never obligated to accept.

Real-Life Example: Selling a 2016 Toyota RAV4 to AutoNation

Let’s look at a real-world scenario. Maria, a teacher from Denver, had a 2016 Toyota RAV4 with 85,000 miles. It had a few scratches on the bumper, a small dent on the driver’s door, and the check engine light was on (diagnosed as a faulty oxygen sensor). She knew fixing it would cost $300, but she didn’t want to spend the money.

She visited AutoNation’s website, entered her VIN and details, and received an instant offer of $11,200. She scheduled an appointment for the next day. At the dealership, the appraiser confirmed the issues but noted the car was otherwise in good shape. The final offer was $11,000—just $200 less than the online quote.

Maria accepted, signed the paperwork, and received a cashier’s check on the spot. She used the money toward a down payment on a new hybrid SUV. “It was so much easier than I expected,” she said. “I didn’t have to fix anything or deal with strangers.”

Conclusion

Selling your car doesn’t have to be stressful, time-consuming, or risky. With AutoNation, you get a fast, fair, and secure way to turn your vehicle into cash—no matter its condition. From instant online quotes to same-day payment, the process is designed with your convenience in mind.

Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or just ready for a change, selling to AutoNation is a smart choice. You avoid the pitfalls of private sales, get a competitive offer based on real market data, and walk away with peace of mind.

So why wait? Visit AutoNation’s website today, get your free valuation, and see how much your car is worth. It takes less than five minutes—and could put thousands of dollars in your pocket by tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell my car to AutoNation if it doesn’t run?

Yes, AutoNation buys non-running vehicles. They’ll assess the car’s condition and make an offer based on its value for parts or auction. You may need to arrange for it to be towed to the dealership.

Do I need to make an appointment to sell my car?

Yes, it’s recommended to schedule an appointment online or by phone. This ensures a staff member is available to inspect your car and speeds up the process.

What documents do I need to sell my car to AutoNation?

You’ll need the car’s title (signed over to AutoNation), a valid ID, proof of insurance, and any loan payoff information if you still owe money on the vehicle.

How long does it take to get paid after selling?

Most customers receive payment the same day—usually within a few hours of accepting the offer. Payment is typically made via cashier’s check or electronic transfer.

Can I sell my leased car to AutoNation?

Yes, AutoNation can buy leased vehicles. They’ll work with your leasing company to pay off the remaining balance and take ownership of the car.

Is the online offer binding?

No, the online offer is an estimate based on the information you provide. The final offer may change after a physical inspection, but it’s usually close to the initial quote.