How to sell your car in Adelaide

Selling your car in Adelaide doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re upgrading, clearing out an older vehicle, or dealing with damage, there are several ways to sell, from private listings and dealer trade-ins to using a licensed car buyer. Each option has its pros and cons, but if you’re looking for a fast, safe, and hassle-free sale, services like 1800 Salvage make the process simple.

The best ways to sell a car in Adelaide

There are three main ways to sell your car in Adelaide: privately, through a dealership trade-in, or by using a professional car buyer like 1800 Salvage. Each method has its own advantages, depending on whether you prioritise price, convenience, or speed.

Selling privately in Adelaide

Selling your car privately can sometimes get you the highest price, especially if you’re patient and willing to negotiate with potential buyers. However, it usually involves advertising costs, arranging inspections, handling paperwork, and dealing with time-wasters. While it may suit sellers who want full control, the process can be lengthy and stressful.

Trading in at a dealership

A dealer trade-in is convenient if you’re upgrading to another vehicle, as the process is handled in one place. However, dealerships typically offer less than the market value for your car. It’s a straightforward option, but you’re trading speed and simplicity for a lower sale price.

Selling to 1800 Salvage

Using a professional car buyer like 1800 Salvage is often the fastest and safest way to sell your car in Adelaide. With same-day quotes, free towing across the city, and instant Osko payment, you can complete the sale in as little as 24 hours. Because we are a licensed motor car trader, you can trust the process to be secure, transparent, and hassle-free, which is ideal for anyone who wants to sell their car quickly without the stress of private sales.

Step-by-step: How to sell a car in South Australia

Selling a car in South Australia is straightforward if you follow the correct process. Here’s a simple checklist to help you prepare, complete the paperwork, and ensure safe payment when selling your car in Adelaide.

Prep your car & documents

Start by gathering the paperwork. This includes your registration certificate, proof of identity, and service history. If your car has finance owing, request a payout letter from your lender. A quick PPSR check (Personal Property Securities Register) confirms whether your car has any encumbrances or is listed as a repairable write-off. This step gives peace of mind to both you and the buyer.

SA paperwork: Transfer within 14 days & disposal notice

In South Australia, the buyer must transfer registration into their name within 14 days of the sale. As the seller, you’re required to lodge a Notice of Disposal with Service SA, which protects you from fines or liabilities once the car leaves your hands. This can be completed online or at a Service SA centre and is an essential step in finalising the sale.

Payment & safety

For a safe and secure transaction, choose instant electronic transfer rather than cash in hand. This avoids the risks of counterfeit notes or theft while giving you immediate confirmation that funds have cleared. Licensed buyers like 1800 Salvage only use verified digital payment methods, ensuring the sale is both fast and safe.

Selling a damaged or unregistered car? Here’s the simplest route

Damaged and unregistered cars are often difficult to sell privately in Adelaide. Many buyers avoid vehicles that can’t be driven, and dealerships usually offer very little for them. A licensed car buyer like 1800 Salvage makes the process quick and stress-free:

• No roadworthy required: Sell your car without costly inspections or certificates.
• We buy any condition: Damaged, written-off, or unregistered vehicles accepted.
• Free towing included: Pickup from the Adelaide CBD, northern suburbs, or anywhere across the city.
• Fast online valuation: Get a competitive offer within minutes.
• Same-day payment: Instant transfer to your bank at pickup.
• No hidden costs: Digital paperwork and transparent service every time.

Prices & timing in 2025: What to expect in Adelaide

The used car market in Adelaide has shifted in 2025. After years of high demand, prices have begun to stabilise as more vehicles return to the market. This means sellers should expect fair offers, but not the inflated prices seen during the peak of the shortage.

Older cars and high-kilometre vehicles may bring in less, while family sedans, popular utes, and well-maintained models still attract solid offers. Classic cars and select older vehicles can also be in demand with specialist buyers.

Timing also matters. Selling privately may take weeks or months, depending on interest and negotiation. Dealerships can move faster, but usually at a reduced price. Licensed buyers like 1800 Salvage offer the quickest turnaround, with same-day quotes and instant payment; ideal if you want to sell your car fast in Adelaide without the uncertainty of the private market.

Sell your car in Adelaide the easy way with 1800 Salvage

When you’re ready to sell your car in Adelaide, 1800 Salvage offers the simplest and most reliable solution. As a Licensed Motor Car Trader with over 850 five-star reviews, we’ve built a reputation for honesty, speed, and hassle-free service.

Selling your car has never been this easy. Get your free online quote today and let our friendly team arrange a convenient time for pickup.

FAQs about selling your car in Adelaide

Do I need a roadworthy certificate to sell my car in South Australia?

No, South Australia does not currently require a roadworthy certificate for private car sales. You can legally sell your vehicle without one, even if it is unregistered or damaged. However, buyers may still ask about the condition of the car, so providing service history or inspection details can help build trust. Licensed car buyers like 1800 Salvage don’t require a certificate, making the process simpler and faster.

What paperwork do I need to sell my car in Adelaide?

To get cash for cars in Adelaide, you’ll need your registration papers, proof of identity, and any finance clearance documents if the vehicle has money owing. After the sale, the seller must lodge a Notice of Disposal with Service SA, while the buyer has 14 days to transfer the registration into their name. Having these documents ready makes the selling process smoother and protects you from fines or liabilities.

Can I sell a car with finance owing?

Yes, you can sell a car with finance owing, but the debt must be cleared before the transfer is finalised. This usually means obtaining a payout figure from your lender and arranging for the buyer to settle the amount directly with the finance company. Licensed buyers like 1800 Salvage can guide you through this process, ensuring the finance is paid out securely and you receive the remaining balance instantly via Osko.

Can I sell an unregistered or damaged car in Adelaide?

Yes, unregistered and damaged cars can still be sold in Adelaide. Private buyers and dealerships often avoid these vehicles, but 1800 Salvage specialises in purchasing them regardless of condition. You won’t need a roadworthy certificate, and they provide free towing, instant online valuations, and secure electronic payment. This makes it the easiest way to sell cars that might otherwise be hard to move.

How quickly can I get paid for my car?

If you sell privately, it can take weeks to find a buyer and finalise payment. Dealerships pay sooner but often at a lower price. With 1800 Salvage, payment is made instantly at the time of pickup. The funds clear into your bank account within minutes, so you don’t have to worry about carrying cash or waiting days for funds to arrive.

Will you tow my car for free in Adelaide?

Yes. 1800 Salvage offers free towing across Adelaide and surrounding suburbs, including the CBD, Salisbury, Mount Barker, Norwood, and Glenelg. Whether your car is running or not, our team will arrange a convenient time for pickup at no extra cost. This makes it easy to sell a non-runner, written-off, or unregistered vehicle without paying hidden fees for transport.