What Documentation Do I Need to Sell My Vehicle?

2 Essential Documents You Need to Sell Your Car

There is an essential document paper trail that needs to be established before you can sell your vehicle privately, trade it in to a dealership, or sell it to Sell My Junk Car. First, you need to establish ownership of the vehicle and second, you need to establish the authenticity of the vehicle. For these reasons, you will need to have a current and updated vehicle title and Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN.

1. What Is a Vehicle Title?

The vehicle title or transfer of ownership documents are perhaps the most critical types of paperwork needed when selling your car. They serve as legal proof of ownership. If you bring your vehicle to Sell My Junk Car, we will accept either as proof of ownership.

Although the information listed on a vehicle title can vary by state, usually the following information can be found on a vehicle title:

• VIN
• Vehicle Make, Model, and Year
• Owner’s Full Name
• Owner’s Address
• Issue Date
• Vehicle Odometer Reading at the Issue Date
• Signatures of the Buyer, Seller, and State Official

There are also several different types of vehicle titles depending on the condition of the vehicle. Types of car titles include:

• Clean: The vehicle is inspected and hasn’t been in an accident.
• Clear: The vehicle has been repaired and passed an inspection.
• Rebuilt: The vehicle was severely damaged but was rebuilt.
• Salvage: The vehicle is significantly damaged and needs to be rebuilt.

Before you sell your vehicle, make sure the title is in your name and that there are no outstanding liens. If there is an existing loan, contact your lender to discuss the process for transferring the title upon sale.

2. Where Is the VIN Located?

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to every vehicle, serving as its fingerprint. A VIN is made up of a combination of numbers and capital letters and is essential for vehicle identification and various administrative processes. A standard VIN is 17 characters long; however, vehicles manufactured before 1981 can have VIN numbers that vary in length between 11 – 17 characters.

In our case, we can also use the license plate number assigned to a vehicle to provide you with a quote on what your vehicle is worth, if the vehicle is registered and on the road.

You can find your VIN listed in several locations including:

• On the Dashboard: The VIN is often visible through the windshield on the driver’s side, near the dashboard.
• Driver’s Side Door Jamb: Open the driver’s side door and look for a sticker on the door frame. The VIN is usually present there.
• Under the Hood: In some vehicles, the VIN may be located on the engine block or other parts under the hood.
• On the Frame: For trucks and SUVs, check the frame or the front end of the vehicle for the VIN.
• Insurance and Registration Documents: The VIN is typically included in insurance cards and registration documents, like your vehicle title discussed above.

Ensuring the accuracy of the VIN is crucial for an accurate value quote and sale. By understanding the necessary documentation and locating the VIN, you can navigate the selling process with confidence and ease! Let Sell My Junk Car handle the rest, from the quote to pick up!

Want to find out how much your vehicle is worth? Contact us now!