Compare the Top 6 Car Buyers
Each of these services will give you a real, binding cash offer on your vehicle in a few minutes. Getting multiple offers is free and takes about 15 minutes total — and the difference between the highest and lowest offer is typically $1,500-$3,000. Always shop at least three before accepting.
| Buyer | Typical Offer Strength | Pickup/Payment Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carvana | Strong (often highest) | 1-2 days, free pickup | Newer vehicles, clean title |
| CarMax | Competitive | Same-day at store | Any vehicle, in-person preference |
| KBB Instant Cash Offer | Variable (dealer network) | Varies by dealer | Buyers also shopping new at a dealer |
| Peddle | Best for older/damaged | 1-3 days, free towing | High mileage, non-running, salvage title |
| Vroom | Competitive | 2-3 days, free pickup | Newer vehicles, nationwide |
| Cars.com Sell My Car | Variable | Varies by buyer | Comparing multiple dealer offers |
Carvana — Often the Highest Online Offer
Carvana is the largest online used-car dealer in the U.S., and their valuation algorithm is known for producing strong, competitive offers — especially on clean-title vehicles under 10 years old and under 100,000 miles. Offers are valid for 7 days, giving you time to compare against other buyers. Carvana handles free pickup almost anywhere in the U.S. and transfers payment via check or bank transfer on pickup.
CarMax — Best In-Person Experience
CarMax has 240+ physical locations across the U.S., which makes them the best option if you want an in-person appraisal and same-day cash. Their written offer is valid for 7 days and honored at any CarMax location. Appraisals typically take 30 minutes, and you walk out with a check that day if you accept. CarMax will buy vehicles they don't plan to retail themselves, so they take nearly any condition.
Dealer Network Offers (KBB Instant Cash Offer)
Kelley Blue Book's Instant Cash Offer connects you to a network of participating dealers in your area. You get a real offer online, then take the vehicle to the dealer to have it verified and collect payment. This is the strongest option if you're also shopping for a replacement vehicle — the dealer will often apply the trade-in sales tax credit (saving you $1,000-$3,000 depending on your state) and negotiate more flexibly when they know a new-car sale is attached.
Before You Accept Any Offer
- Know your car's actual value. Run it through our free depreciation calculator first. This gives you a data-backed baseline so you can tell whether the offers you receive are fair.
- Get at least 3 offers. Carvana, CarMax, and a dealer network offer. Takes 15 minutes. The highest and lowest usually differ by $1,500+.
- Check the offer validity window. Most offers are valid 7 days. Use that window to compare, not to hesitate.
- Read the fine print on condition adjustments. Online offers assume your vehicle matches the condition you described. If the inspector finds previously undisclosed damage, the final offer may be reduced. Be honest in the online form.
- Compare against private sale. Private sale typically pays 10-18% more but takes 2-4 weeks. See our trade-in vs. private sale comparison to run the math for your situation.
Common Questions
Are these offers really free?
Yes. Getting an offer costs nothing and creates no obligation. None of these services charge you to list, quote, or decline. You only complete the sale if you choose to accept the offer.
Do these companies buy cars with loans on them?
Yes, all six will buy vehicles that still have loans outstanding. They pay off the lender directly and send you the remaining equity. If you're upside-down (owe more than the vehicle is worth), you'll need to pay the difference to close the sale.
Can I sell a car that doesn't run?
Peddle specializes in non-running, damaged, and salvage-title vehicles and is almost always your best option for anything that can't drive under its own power. CarMax will also consider non-running vehicles. Carvana typically won't.
How long does the whole process take?
From initial offer to payment in your account: typically 24-72 hours. CarMax is fastest if you're willing to drive to a location (same day). Carvana and Peddle handle everything remotely with 1-3 day turnaround.
Do I need a clean title?
Carvana requires a clean or clear title. CarMax, Peddle, and most dealer networks will buy vehicles with salvage or rebuilt titles, but the offer will be significantly lower. See our salvage title values guide for what to expect.
Related Guides
- Best Way to Sell Your Car Fast — The 7-Day Playbook
- Trade-In vs Private Sale: Which Is Better?
- How to Price Your Used Car for Sale
- Free Car Depreciation Calculator
Advertising disclosure: My Car Value Check may earn a commission when you use partner links on this page. This does not affect the price you receive from any buyer or our editorial recommendations. We recommend these services because they consistently produce strong offers and deliver what they promise, not because of any financial relationship.