How to Sell a Car in Ontario
Thinking about parting ways with your vehicle? Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or just simplifying your life, knowing how to sell a car in Ontario the right way can save you time, stress, and money.
Let’s cut through the fluff and walk through exactly what you need to know.
Step 1: Know What You’re Selling
Before you sell a car in Ontario, make sure you understand what you’re working with. Is your car in good mechanical shape? Has it been in any accidents? Do you still owe money on it?
Start by gathering these details:
- Year, make, and model
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Odometer reading
- Service history and receipts
- Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP)
That last one is required by law if you’re selling privately in Ontario. You can order it online through ServiceOntario for a small fee.
Step 2: Clean It Up
First impressions matter. A clean, well-maintained car will sell faster and for more money. Vacuum the interior, wash and wax the exterior, and remove any personal items. If there are minor repairs or burnt-out lights, fix them before listing the vehicle.
If you're trying to sell a car in Ontario to a private buyer, presentation makes a huge difference. You're not just selling a machine — you're selling peace of mind.
Step 3: Set a Realistic Price
It’s tempting to aim high, but setting a fair market value is key. Use platforms like AutoTrader, Kijiji, and Canadian Black Book to compare similar vehicles.
If you're trying to sell a car in Ontario, pricing too high can leave your ad gathering dust. Pricing too low might mean losing out on hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.
Step 4: Advertise Smartly
Ontario has a thriving private auto market. That’s good news—it means there are buyers looking. The key is to create an honest, detailed listing. Include:
- Clear, high-quality photos (inside and out)
- Accurate vehicle details
- Asking price
- Your general location
- Any flaws or issues upfront
Being transparent builds trust and saves time. When you’re trying to sell a car in Ontario, vague listings just don’t cut it anymore.
Step 5: Arrange a Safe Test Drive
Always meet in a public place—ideally during the day. Ask to see a valid driver’s license before handing over the keys. It's smart to ride along during the test drive or bring a friend along for safety.
Remember: Ontario law requires a vehicle to be "fit" for the road. That means it must pass a safety inspection before the ownership can be transferred.
Step 6: Complete the Sale Legally
Once you find a buyer, it’s time to make it official. Here’s what’s involved when you sell a car in Ontario:
- Fill out the bill of sale (included in the UVIP)
- Sign the Application for Transfer (on the back of the ownership)
- Give the buyer the UVIP and Safety Standards Certificate (if applicable)
- Remove your license plates—you keep them, not the buyer
- Let your insurance company know you’ve sold the vehicle, and cancel or transfer your policy.
What About Selling to a Dealer?
If you want a faster route, selling your car to a dealership is an option. You won’t get top dollar, but it can be more convenient—especially if you're buying another vehicle at the same time.
Just keep in mind: even when selling to a dealer, you still need to understand the value of your car. That knowledge puts you in control.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to sell a car in Ontario doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little prep work and a clear plan, you can make the process smooth and even rewarding. Whether you’re handing off your car to its next driver or simply clearing space in the driveway, doing it right is always worth the effort.
Just remember: honesty, paperwork, and preparation are your best tools.
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