Selling a Car in Illinois: Step-by-Step Guide

Selling a car in Illinois involves several steps to ensure a legal and smooth transaction. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to sell a car in Illinois:

1. Gather Required Documents:

Before you can sell your car, make sure you have the necessary documents:

• Certificate of Title: You must have the vehicle's title with your name on it. If you have a lienholder, the title will be held by the lienholder until it's paid off.

• Odometer Disclosure Statement: Illinois requires the seller to provide an odometer disclosure statement to the buyer.

• Bill of Sale: Although not required, a bill of sale can be a useful document for both the buyer and seller. It includes details of the sale, such as the purchase price and vehicle information.

2. Pay Off Any Liens (if applicable):

If there's a lien on the vehicle, you need to pay it off before selling the car. The lienholder will release the title, which you can then transfer to the buyer.

3. Determine the Vehicle's Value:

Research the current market value of your vehicle. Websites like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and NADA Guides can help you estimate its worth. This will help you set a reasonable asking price.

4. Prepare the Vehicle:

Clean and prepare the vehicle for sale. A well-maintained and clean car is more attractive to buyers.

5. Advertise the Car:

Create an advertisement for your car. Take high-quality photos and write a detailed description, including the make, model, year, mileage, condition, and asking price. You can use online platforms like Craigslist, AutoTrader, or local classified ads.

6. Negotiate with Potential Buyers:

Be prepared to negotiate with potential buyers. Be clear about your asking price and any room for negotiation.

7. Complete the Sale:

Once you have a buyer, complete the sale by following these steps:

• Complete the Odometer Disclosure Statement: Fill out the Odometer Disclosure Statement on the back of the title with the buyer. Both parties need to sign and date it.

• Bill of Sale: If you choose to use a bill of sale, both you and the buyer should sign it. This document can serve as proof of the sale.

• Release of Liability: Submit a Notice of Sale (Form VSD 703) to the Illinois Secretary of State's office online or by mail within 20 days of the sale. This will release you from liability for the vehicle.

8. Hand Over the Title:

Provide the buyer with the signed and dated title, along with the Bill of Sale (if used) and any other documents related to the vehicle.

9. Remove License Plates:

Remove your license plates from the vehicle. In Illinois, plates remain with the owner, not the vehicle.

10. Notify Your Insurance Company:

Contact your insurance company to cancel the coverage on the sold vehicle or transfer it to your new vehicle if applicable.

11. Keep Records:

Keep copies of all documents related to the sale, including the bill of sale and the Notice of Sale submission.

12. Cancel the Registration (if applicable):

If you're not transferring the plates to another vehicle, cancel the registration for the sold vehicle to avoid any future liability.

Remember that specific rules and requirements may change over time, so it's a good idea to check with the Illinois Secretary of State's office or their website for the most up-to-date information and forms related to selling a car in Illinois.