How to Sell Your Car in QLD (And Actually Get a Good Price)

The first decision you’ll make is whether to sell your car privately, trade it in, or use a car buying service.

If your car is in demand and you’re comfortable with messaging strangers, private is the way to go. If you just want it gone, get a quote from a buying service and compare.

The Top 5 Ways to Sell a Car in QLD

Not all car sales are created equal. The way you choose to sell your vehicle in QLD will massively affect the outcome — from price to time to stress. Here’s how each option stacks up:

If you want the most money and are comfortable dealing with the public, a private sale will usually get you top dollar. You’ll need to manage the ad, take calls, arrange viewings, and negotiate the deal. It’s time-consuming — but often worth it if your car is in good condition and in demand.

2. Sell to a Licensed Car Buyer (Fast & Hassle-Free) 💰

This is the quickest and cleanest option. You get an offer, accept or decline, and the paperwork is sorted for you. No rego transfer dramas, no strangers coming to your house, no tyre kickers. It’s ideal for busy people, or anyone selling a car under finance or without a roadworthy.
👉 Get a free valuation now

3. Sell at a Car Auction 🎤

Auctions can surprise you — in both directions. If your car is rare, unique, or heavily modified, this might get you better exposure to specialist buyers. But fees apply, and there’s no guarantee your reserve will be met.

4. Selling Through Consignment 🤝

Some car yards offer to sell your vehicle on your behalf. They handle inspections, advertising, and paperwork — but you’ll usually pay a commission. It can be slower than a direct sale but offers more exposure than going it alone.

5. Trade-In at a Dealership 🚘

Dealership trade-ins are convenient, especially if you're buying another car. You don’t need to list, negotiate, or do paperwork. But you’ll rarely get a fair market price — they build profit margins into every offer.

Carsales vs Gumtree vs Marketplace: Quick Breakdown

Choosing the right place to sell your car can make all the difference — not just in how fast it sells, but how much you walk away with. Here's what to expect from buyers on each platform.

Carsales

• Buyers tend to research and ask the right questions
• Expect more back-and-forth before inspection
• Safer than Facebook but slower pace

Gumtree

• Bargain seekers and resellers
• Quick to inspect if local
• Have your answers ready for “What’s your lowest price?”

Facebook Marketplace

• Many enquiries, low hit rate
• High chance of ghosting
• Always meet in a public location like a servo or Bunnings

Tip: Use more than one platform if you're not in a rush — just keep your pricing and details consistent.

Timing your sale can boost your price or kill demand entirely.

Here's what works in QLD:

Avoid December to mid-January. Everyone’s away or saving. If your ad is live then, it’ll likely sit untouched.

Preparing Your Car to Sell for More

A dirty or tired-looking car turns buyers off instantly. Here’s how to lift the value without spending big:

• Exterior: Wash, clay bar if needed, polish the headlights, and blacken the tyres.
• Interior: Remove clutter, deodorise, clean all surfaces — including vents and cup holders.
• Mechanical: Fix warning lights, top up fluids, and make sure the car starts smoothly.
• Paperwork: Have the service book ready. If it’s missing, get a basic oil change and receipt to prove maintenance.

Overpricing is the #1 reason listings don’t get traction. To set a realistic price:

• Look up Carsales and filter by your car’s year, badge, and km
• Compare prices on Marketplace and Gumtree to see local competition
• If there’s finance owing, factor in what you’ll need to pay out
• Allow some haggle room — around 5–10% is fair

And remember: what your mate got for his Toyota Hilux in 2021 means nothing in today’s market.

After 15+ years of buying cars from Queenslanders, here’s my no-BS advice:

• Don't ghost interested buyers: Even a polite “sold” message helps you stay human and allows you to reach out if the sale falls through.
• If your car’s rough, say so: Nothing annoys a buyer more than wasting a trip.
• Don’t drop your price too soon: The first few days are your best window. If no bites after 7–10 days, then consider lowering.
• Be available: Flexible inspection times (evenings, weekends) help seal the deal faster.
• Get a second opinion: Sometimes the car buying service will offer more than a private buyer if it’s a weird spec or hard to finance.
  

You don’t need to be a car expert to sell well. You just need to be clear, prepared, and realistic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sell Your Car the Fast & Easy Way