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BSM SMC 500

Sell my car

3 simple steps!

Enter your reg below to get started

How the Sell My Car Valuation works

1. Value it

It's simple. Enter your registration into the form above to start your free, instant valuation. We will guarantee your price for 7 days when you book an appointment on any make, any model.

2. Book it

We will help you find a dealership nearby so you can bring your car to us. With dealerships nationwide, you are sure to find somewhere close to home.

3. Sell it

Once we have confirmed with you, we will make sure you get your payment. We don't charge any admin fees, and there's no obligation to sell.

Sell my car reviews

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Why use Sell My Car at Bristol Street Motors?

With Bristol Street Motors, selling your car has never been easier.

There's absolutely no obligation to sell, you get a guaranteed price for 7 days when you book an appointment, there are no admin fees and dealerships around the country for you to complete your sale.

  • Free, instant valuation
  • Guaranteed price for 7 days when you book an appointment
  • No admin fees
  • No obligation to sell
  • Any make, any model
  • Dealerships nationwide
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What improves the value of my car?

High specification models

In a busy resale market, the more desirable elements your car has compared to other models, the better. Optional extras like technology upgrades, leather interiors, factory-optioned body styling, limited edition paint work all increase the potential value of your car.

Good mpg

A car that is economical to run will always go down well, especially for those needing to do long journeys. The efficiency of a car will inevitably reduce with age, but regular servicing can be a great indication that the car will keep close to its original from-factory mpg.

Low mileage

An advantage you can make the most of is low mileage when selling your car. Take a look at other models of your same year and check how your mileage compares to theirs. If you do a lot of miles, keep this in mind when deciding on the best time to sell your car.

Full service history

Reassurance that the car has been well looked after comes from the service history. Keep the service history without gaps and completed by reputable providers, keep the MOTs up to date, correct any advisories and you will be able to prove the car has been looked after in your care.

In-date warranty

A valid warranty adds value for any future owner, especially when it comes to a used car. A warranty will give you peace of mind that your car is covered throughout your ownership, but also that it can give you value back when it comes to sell it too.

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What lessens the value of my car?

Bad condition

Should your car suffer from poor bodywork, a worn and torn interior or rough mechanical conditions, it might be worth getting all or some of these checked out for repair. They all play a role in decreasing the value of your car in the eyes of a new buyer.

Previous owners

The higher the number of previous owners, the less likely others will be to buy your car. If there are several previous owners, questions start to be asked about why the car has changed hands so frequently. It's also more likely that the car will have poorer quality or missing service history.

Higher mileage

Having higher mileage than most similar models of its age counts against your car's value. It's worth bearing this in mind before it happens. Though, if it's unavoidable, be sure to look after the car's repairs, and keep the service history up to date and complete.

Increased age

If your car is an older model, it will usually be less desirable than the newest and improved models available on the market. There are some exceptions to this, perhaps they have desirable qualities that have been replaced within the newer model, but it is the general rule.

Patchy service history

Missing or inconsistent service history doesn't paint a reliable picture of a well-looked-after car. Keep this in mind when buying any car, as it will impact resales. If it's something you can rectify, such as contacting your local garage for a receipt from some past work on the car, it's worth doing.

Conditions of the car valuation online

  • Your car has not been used as a taxi or by a driving school
  • Your car must have a valid MOT certificate on the day of hand over
  • Your car is not an import and was first registered in the UK (mainland)
  • Your car has not been in a major accident and has never been an insurance write off
  • You must have been the registered owner of the vehicle for a minimum of 6 months and be able to provide us with the logbook (V5c)
  • Your car has 2 sets of keys
  • Where applicable the SatNav memory or Sim Card must be in the car
  • Vehicle must have a spare wheel with a legal tyre or where applicable a tyre inflation kit
  • The car valuation is valid for 7 days when you book an appointment and is based on the mileage and condition described
  • All interior fixings such as the parcel shelf are included in the car

Should your vehicle not match the description, we reserve the right to change your valuation.

Find your next car

If you choose to sell your car, you can take the money, or put it towards your next car as a part exchange.

We have such a wide range of vehicles on offer at Bristol Street Motors, we're sure there's something for everyone. Take a look at our collection and find your perfect car.

Time to sell your car?

It's simple. Enter your reg below to get your free, instant valuation.

We'll assess your car's condition and mileage against the most recent marketplace data.

Get your valuation today.

Sell Your Car FAQs

What documents do I need to sell my car?

For the vehicle inspection you will need:

  • Your driving licence
  • A bank statement addressed to your name and current home address dated within 3 months
  • Vehicle Registration V5 Document with your name (the seller) on it
  • The service history records
  • Valid finance settlement letter showing final settlement figure and finance company bank details (if applicable)
  • All keys, including spares
  • Any accessories related to the use of the vehicle i.e. user manual, locking wheel nut key, memory cards etc

How much does low mileage add to a car's value?

Several factors affect a car's value. These include market conditions, make and model, age, and overall condition. However, in general, a car with a low mileage will tend to command a higher value. This is because low mileage often indicates less wear and tear and fewer mechanical issues. It is important to keep in mind that multiple factors will impact the final valuation figure.

What is considered high mileage when selling a car?

This is a subjective area, and it's important to note that some cars with higher mileage can be in better condition than those with fewer miles. What is important is how well-maintained the vehicle is. The average car mileage in the UK per year is around 8,000 miles. You can use this figure along with the age of your vehicle to determine whether it has done more miles than the average of its age.

Can I turn up at a dealership and sell my car?

The best way to sell your car is to follow our simple three-step process. First, value your car online using our free car valuation tool. Second, book an appointment at your local dealership. Third, bring your car and the necessary documentation to your dealership appointment. We'll process the paperwork and payment and take the car off your hands.

While you can visit one of our nationwide dealerships to sell your car, our process provides you with time to consider the price. It also ensures you bring all the relevant documents and accessories to the appointment, saving a wasted journey.

What happens with my road tax and insurance when I sell my car?

You are responsible for your vehicle until it has been officially sold. After the sale, you will need to notify the DVLAs and your insurance provider to inform them that the car has changed ownership. The DVLA will issue you a refund for any full months of tax your car has remaining. To determine if you are eligible for a refund from your insurance premium, you should review the terms and conditions of your contract.

Can I sell my car without an MOT?

Your car must have a valid MOT certificate on the day of handover.

How fast can I sell my car?

We've designed the Sell My Car process to be as efficient as possible. You'll receive an instant valuation from us online, which is valid for seven days. Your dealership appointment shouldn't take too long; we recommend allowing approximately one hour. Once the paperwork is complete, your payment will be processed. The funds should arrive in your account via BACS transfer within 3-5 working days.

How long will my appointment last at the dealership?

Your appointment will last between 30-60 minutes.

Are there any fees or administration costs?

No. Regardless of the value of your car, there are no other charges or fees if you decide to sell to us.

Shall I cancel my direct debit to my finance company prior to my appointment to sell my car?

It is important that you do not cancel your direct debit until we have received your car and confirmed that all finance has been paid. If you do cancel the direct debit early, you may risk owing a payment which you will be obliged to pay.

Do you buy cars in any condition?

If you would prefer to discuss selling your car to us in person, please book an appointment at your local dealership.

Do you accept non-runners?

No, we do not accept non-runners. The vehicle must be able to start up properly.

Will you buy my car if it has private registrations?

Yes, however the private registrations will need to be removed prior to sale.

When will I receive payment for my car?

If you decide to sell your car to us, provided the V5 document, driving licence and bank statement you bring to your appointment (see What do I need to bring with me to sell my car?) are all in the same name, payment will be processed by the next working day.

Can I sell a deceased relative's vehicle?

Yes. We understand that it may be a challenging time, but we are here to help. You can sell the vehicle to us; we just need a few documents to process the sale. Take a look at our guide to selling a deceased relative's car for more information.

Can I sell a deceased relative's vehicle if I don't have the V5C logbook?

Yes, you are still able to sell the vehicle to us, we just require a letter from you including some important details. You can find out more in our guide to selling a deceased relative's car.

Who receives the payment if I sell a deceased relative's car?

We must process the payment to an account of the deceased registered keeper or an account of the solicitors dealing with the estate. Our guide to selling a deceased relative's car outlines this further.

Can I sell my car If It's on finance?

You can still sell your car to us if there is remaining finance left to pay. Our guide to selling a car on finance outlines this further.

Can I sell a motorcycle?

If you are interested in selling your motorcycle, please visit our sister company Vertu Motorcycles.

Guides for selling your car

Looking to part exchange?

Find your next car with Bristol Street Motors.


View used cars

We are a credit broker and not a lender. Finance is subject to status and finance company acceptance. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders and their finance products. We will typically receive a commission from the lender, as either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage on the amount you borrow. The commission we earn does not change by the type of finance. A guarantee may be required. The finance rate will vary dependent of customer personal circumstances for in dealership purchases.