Used Car Buying FAQs

Frequently asked questions and answers

1. 01

   Who is THIScar?

   THIScar is a modern pre-owned vehicle retailer and vehicle buying company based in the Houston area. We are a team of customer-focused professionals working to make buying or selling a vehicle simpler, faster, and more transparent. We believe the car business should feel different. That means fair, no-haggle pricing, carefully selected inventory, professional appraisals, and a team focused on helping customers make confident decisions. We are not perfect, but when we make a mistake, we own it and work to make it right.

2. 02

   What makes THIScar different from a traditional dealership?

   THIScar is different because we are built around both sides of the automotive transaction: helping customers buy quality pre-owned vehicles and helping customers sell their current vehicles directly to us. Many traditional dealerships rely heavily on wholesale auctions for inventory. THIScar focuses on buying vehicles directly from the public, which allows us to be more selective about the vehicles we offer for retail sale and gives local customers a better way to sell their vehicle without a traditional dealership process.

3. 03

   Is THIScar a dealership?

   THIScar operates a retail dealership in Tomball, Texas, where customers can shop for and purchase vehicles. We also operate dedicated Buying Centers designed specifically for customers who want to sell their vehicle to THIScar. Buying Centers are not traditional dealership showrooms, and customers do not have to buy a vehicle from us in order to sell us their car.

4. 04

   Where is THIScar located?

   THIScar's main retail location is in Tomball, Texas. This is the location for customers who want to purchase a vehicle from THIScar. We also have several THIScar Buying Centers throughout the Greater Houston area. These locations are designed for customers who want to sell their vehicle to THIScar. Please visit our Locations page at https://thiscar.com/locations for the most current list of locations.

5. 05

   How many locations does THIScar have?

   THIScar's main location is in Tomball, Tx. This is the only location for consumers that are purchasing a vehicle from us. We have several other locations that are Buying Centers. These locations are strictly for consumers to sell their vehicle to THIScar. Please refer to our locations page at https://thiscar.com/locations for our most recent location information, as we are expanding rapidly and opening more Buying/Drop Off Centers for your convenience.

6. 06

   Where do THIScar cars come from?

   THIScar buys vehicles directly from people who are ready to sell or trade their current vehicle. Unlike many dealers that rely heavily on wholesale auctions, THIScar focuses on sourcing vehicles directly from the public. After we purchase a vehicle, it goes through our inspection and review process. From there, we decide whether the vehicle meets our standards for retail sale or whether it should be sold through wholesale channels. Only a select portion of the vehicles we acquire are offered for sale on our website.

7. 07

   Does THIScar buy vehicles from auctions?

   THIScar focuses on buying vehicles directly from consumers instead of sourcing retail inventory from wholesale auctions. That direct-from-the-public model helps us be more selective with the vehicles we retail and gives customers a simple, professional way to sell their current vehicle.

8. 08

   Does every vehicle THIScar buys end up for sale on the website?

   No. THIScar does not retail every vehicle we buy. Every vehicle is reviewed based on condition, mileage, age, history, market demand, and reconditioning needs. If a vehicle does not meet our retail standards, we sell it through wholesale channels instead of listing it for sale to the public.

9. 09

   Why does THIScar wholesale some vehicles?

   THIScar wholesales some vehicles because not every vehicle is the right fit for retail sale. Age, mileage, condition, accident history, title status, mechanical needs, cosmetic condition, and market demand all play a role. This helps us maintain higher standards for the vehicles we offer to retail customers.

10. 10

    Can I test drive a car?

    Yes. Vehicles located at our Tomball retail location are available for test drives. Before a test drive, we require a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a thumbprint. This is for your protection and ours. We always advise scheduling a test-drive appointment in advance, so that we can ensure the vehicle is ready and waiting for your test drive.

11. 11

    What is the best price?

    At THIScar, the price you see is the price you pay. We post our actual selling price on every vehicle. There is no back-and-forth negotiation and no guessing what the real price is. Our goal is to provide fair, transparent, no-haggle pricing from the beginning.

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    Are THIScar prices negotiable?

    No. THIScar uses clear, no-haggle pricing. We believe customers deserve to know the real price upfront without having to negotiate. Our goal is to price vehicles fairly from the start and create a simpler, more comfortable buying experience.

13. 13

    Does THIScar inspect its vehicles?

    Yes. Vehicles offered for retail sale are reviewed before they are listed for sale. Because THIScar buys vehicles directly from the public, we are selective about which vehicles we choose to retail. Vehicles that do not meet our standards may be sent to wholesale instead.

14. 14

    Are THIScar vehicles reconditioned to "like new" condition?

    No. No pre-owned vehicle is truly reconditioned to “like new” condition, and we do not want to create that expectation. At THIScar, we believe we have a better vehicle sourcing strategy to begin with ... Unlike the bigger national retailers and the franchise dealers and dealer groups that all sell pre-owned vehicles, we do not rely on vehicles purchased from auto auctions. We source our vehicles directly from consumers, which gives us a more controlled and selective process from the beginning. Our team evaluates the vehicle, its history, condition, mileage, ownership details, and market demand (among other things) before deciding whether it is appropriate for retail sale. We focus on vehicles that are already in good working mechanical condition. From there, we perform appropriate maintenance, safety-related checks, and light reconditioning when needed. We do not over-recondition vehicles in a way that creates unnecessary costs and overhead that ultimately get passed on to our customers. Our goal is to offer solid, carefully selected pre-owned vehicles at fair, competitive prices, with clear information and a straightforward buying experience. Not every vehicle we purchase becomes a THIScar retail vehicle. Vehicles that do not meet our retail standards may be sold to other new and used vehicle dealers through wholesale auto auctions instead of being offered for sale to THIScar customers.

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    Why are some vehicles marked "Coming Soon"?

    Vehicles marked Coming Soon are vehicles we have acquired but are still going through inspection, reconditioning, photography, or final preparation. Our team may be able to answer basic questions, provide updates, or share available photos and information depending on the vehicle's location and status in the process.

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    Can I reserve or hold a Coming Soon vehicle?

    Vehicle availability can change quickly, especially on Coming Soon units. If you are interested in a specific vehicle, contact our team as soon as possible. A THIScar team member can explain the current status of the vehicle and whether any hold or deposit options are available.

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    Can I buy a vehicle from THIScar if I do not live in Texas?

    Yes. Customers outside of Texas may be able to purchase vehicles from THIScar. Out-of-state purchases can involve additional steps, including transportation, title work, taxes, registration, financing coordination, and paperwork. Our team will walk you through the process before you make a decision.

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    What can I expect when buying a vehicle I have not seen in person?

    Buying a vehicle sight unseen can be convenient, but it is important to do your homework. THIScar can provide available photos, videos, and information to help you evaluate the vehicle before purchase. We also recommend that out-of-area customers consider a third-party pre-purchase inspection from a company of their choice. Mileage shown in a listing is accurate at the time of listing but may change due to vehicle movement, test drives, or normal business activity. If exact mileage is important to you, please verify it with our team before purchase.

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    Does THIScar offer financing?

    Yes. THIScar works with a variety of national banks and credit unions to help customers find financing options that fit their situation. Our financing partners may include lenders such as Wells Fargo, Ally, Truist, and others. You can contact us to get started or apply for financing through our website.

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    Can I get pre-qualified before I choose a vehicle?

    Yes. You may be able to begin the financing process before selecting a specific vehicle. This can help you understand possible payment ranges, down payment needs, and financing options before you shop. Final approval, terms, and conditions are determined by the lender.

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    Does applying for financing affect my credit?

    Some pre-qualification tools may allow you to review potential options without a hard credit inquiry. A full credit application or final approval may require a hard credit inquiry. Our team can help explain the difference before you apply.

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    Can I use my own bank or credit union?

    In many cases, yes. Customers may be able to use outside financing from their own bank or credit union. Please contact THIScar before finalizing your purchase so we can explain the process and make sure all lender requirements are handled correctly.

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    Can I return a vehicle I buy from THIScar?

    THIScar offers a 30-day exchange option on eligible vehicles. If you decide the vehicle is not the right fit, let us know within 30 days or 1,000 miles, whichever comes first. The vehicle must be returned in the same condition, and applicable transportation charges and a restocking fee may apply. Our team will help you find a replacement vehicle that better fits your needs.

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    How does the THIScar 30-day exchange policy work?

    THIScar's 30-day exchange policy allows eligible customers to exchange their vehicle within 30 days or 1,000 miles, whichever comes first. To qualify, the vehicle must be returned in the same condition in which it was delivered. Transportation or shipping charges are not refundable, and a restocking fee may apply. The exchange policy applies to eligible domestic retail sales only and does not apply to dealer-to-dealer transactions. Please ask a THIScar team member for full details before purchase.

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    Are there limits to the 30-day exchange policy?

    Yes. The exchange must occur within 30 days or 1,000 miles, whichever comes first. The vehicle must be returned in the same condition, and transportation charges, shipping charges, and restocking fees may apply. Please review the full policy with a THIScar team member before purchase.

26. 26

    Can I sell my car to THIScar without buying one?

    Absolutely. THIScar buys vehicles directly from consumers, even if they are not buying a vehicle from us. You do not have to trade in your vehicle, shop for a replacement, or go through a traditional dealership sales process. You can start online, receive an offer, visit one of our Buying Centers, and complete the transaction after your vehicle and paperwork are verified.

27. 27

    What is the easiest way to sell my car in Houston?

    The easiest way to sell your car in Houston is to start online with THIScar, receive an offer, schedule an appointment, and visit a THIScar Buying Center. We designed the process for customers who want to avoid private-party listings, meeting strangers, negotiating with unknown buyers, or the stress and haggling of visiting multiple dealerships.

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    How does the THIScar selling process work?

    The process is simple: tell us about your vehicle online, receive an offer, schedule an appointment at a THIScar Buying Center, bring your vehicle in for verification and inspection, complete the required paperwork, and get paid after everything is finalized. Our team will guide you through each step.

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    Does THIScar beat competitor's offers for my vehicle?

    Assuming the vehicle and offer details are comparable, we are able to improve on a competitor's offer more often than not. We will need to conduct an in-person appraisal to finalize any offer.

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    What do I need to bring when selling my vehicle to THIScar?

    When selling your vehicle to THIScar, please bring a valid driver's license, your vehicle title if you have it, registration, all keys and remotes, payoff information if the vehicle has a loan, and any additional ownership or supporting documents. If the vehicle is electric you should also bring your charging cables. If you are unsure what to bring, contact us before your appointment and we will help you prepare.

31. 31

    When do I get paid if I sell my car to THIScar?

    In most cases, THIScar pays customers the same day after the vehicle, paperwork, ownership, and payoff information have been verified. Rare situations can delay payment, such as a lender payoff that cannot be verified, incomplete paperwork, title issues, or documentation concerns. If you think your situation may be unique, contact us ahead of time and we will help you understand what to expect.

32. 32

    Can I sell or trade in my vehicle if I still owe money on it?

    Yes. You can sell or trade in your vehicle even if you still owe money on it. If your vehicle is worth more than your payoff, THIScar can pay off the lender and you receive the difference. If you owe more than the vehicle is worth, that difference is called negative equity. If you are buying another vehicle, we may be able to work with our lenders to include the negative equity in your new loan, subject to lender approval.

33. 33

    Can I sell my car if I am not buying anything from THIScar?

    Yes. THIScar buys vehicles from customers even when they are not purchasing another vehicle. This is one of the main reasons our Buying Centers exist. They are designed to help customers sell their vehicle without going through a traditional dealership sales process.

34. 34

    Can I sell a financed vehicle without trading it in?

    Yes. If your vehicle has a loan, THIScar can work to verify the payoff and help complete the transaction. If the offer is higher than your payoff, you receive the difference. If the payoff is higher than the offer, you may need to pay the difference to complete the sale.

35. 35

    What happens if I owe more than my car is worth?

    If your loan payoff is higher than your vehicle's value, you have negative equity. If you are selling the vehicle outright, you may need to pay the difference to complete the sale. If you are trading the vehicle in and buying another vehicle, our lenders may be able to include the negative equity in the new loan, subject to approval.

36. 36

    What happens if my car is worth more than I owe on it?

    If your vehicle is worth more than your loan payoff, the difference is your equity. After the lender payoff is verified and the transaction is complete, THIScar pays you the remaining equity.

37. 37

    Does THIScar buy vehicles with branded titles?

    No. THIScar does not buy vehicles with branded titles, including salvage, rebuilt, bonded, flood, or similar title brands. If we discover during the purchase process, or within our review period after purchase, that a vehicle has a branded title or inaccurate title disclosure, THIScar may cancel the transaction and will not move forward with the purchase.

38. 38

    Does THIScar buy vehicles with accident history?

    THIScar may review vehicles with accident history on a case-by-case basis. Accident history can affect value, but it does not always prevent us from making an offer. The final decision depends on the severity of the damage, repair quality, vehicle history, condition, title status, and market demand.

39. 39

    Does THIScar buy cars with mechanical problems?

    THIScar reviews each vehicle individually. Mechanical issues, warning lights, engine problems, transmission concerns, accident history, title status, mileage, and market demand can all affect whether we can purchase the vehicle and how much we can offer.

40. 40

    Does THIScar buy high-mileage vehicles?

    Yes. THIScar buys high-mileage vehicles. Mileage affects value, but it is only one part of the appraisal. Condition, history, equipment, title status, market demand, and reconditioning needs also matter.

41. 41

    Does THIScar buy trucks and SUVs?

    Yes. THIScar buys cars, trucks, and SUVs. We review each vehicle based on condition, mileage, history, title status, equipment, market demand, and overall resale potential.

42. 42

    Does THIScar buy luxury vehicles?

    Yes. THIScar reviews luxury vehicles, performance vehicles, trucks, SUVs, and everyday vehicles. The offer depends on the vehicle's condition, mileage, equipment, history, title status, and market demand.

43. 43

    Does THIScar buy electric or hybrid vehicles?

    THIScar may review electric and hybrid vehicles. Battery condition, mileage, vehicle history, equipment, title status, and market demand may affect the offer.

44. 44

    Should I repair my vehicle before selling it?

    Not always. In many cases, it may be better to get an offer before spending money on repairs. THIScar can review your vehicle as-is and help you understand your options before you decide whether repairs are worth it.

45. 45

    Should I clean my vehicle before the appraisal?

    A clean vehicle can make the appraisal process easier, but you do not need to fully detail it before your appointment. The most important thing is that the vehicle can be inspected accurately and that you bring all available keys, paperwork, and required documents.

46. 46

    Do missing keys affect my offer?

    Missing keys, remotes, manuals, or accessories may affect your offer because replacement costs can be significant. Please bring all keys, remotes, books, accessories, and equipment you have.

47. 47

    Does smoke odor or pet odor affect my vehicle's value?

    Yes. Smoke odor, pet odor, stains, excessive wear, and interior damage can affect value because they may require cleaning, repair, or reconditioning.

48. 48

    Do modifications affect my vehicle's value?

    Yes. Modifications can increase, decrease, or have no effect on value depending on the vehicle and the type of modification. THIScar reviews modified vehicles individually based on market demand, condition, safety, title status, and resale potential.

49. 49

    Can I sell a vehicle for someone else?

    In most cases, the legal owner or an authorized representative must be involved in the sale. Requirements may vary depending on title, lien status, power of attorney, ownership documents, and state rules. Contact THIScar before your appointment so we can help you understand what is required.

50. 50

    Can I sell an inherited vehicle?

    THIScar may be able to help with inherited vehicles, but the required paperwork depends on the title, estate documents, probate status, and state requirements. Please contact us before your appointment so we can review the situation and explain what documents may be needed.

51. 51

    Can I sell a company-owned vehicle?

    THIScar may be able to purchase company-owned vehicles if the proper business documents and authorized signers are available. Please contact us before your appointment so we can explain what paperwork is required.

52. 52

    Does THIScar use Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer?

    Yes. THIScar participates in the Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer process and helps customers turn online vehicle information into a real offer. The online offer is based on the information submitted about the vehicle. The final offer may depend on in-person verification, condition, mileage, title status, vehicle history, equipment, and market demand.

53. 53

    What is a Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer?

    A Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer is an online offer based on details about your vehicle, including year, make, model, trim, mileage, condition, equipment, and market data. After your vehicle is inspected and verified, the offer may be confirmed or adjusted based on the actual condition and details of the vehicle.

54. 54

    Can THIScar improve my Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer?

    In many cases, THIScar may be able to improve an online Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer after reviewing the vehicle. The final offer depends on condition, mileage, options, title status, history, market demand, and appraisal results.

55. 55

    Why did my online offer change after the in-person inspection?

    Online offers are based on the information submitted before the vehicle is physically reviewed. If the vehicle's condition, mileage, equipment, history, title status, or mechanical condition differs from what was entered online, the final offer may change. THIScar's goal is to provide a fair, accurate offer based on the vehicle's actual condition and market value.

56. 56

    Is a KBB Instant Cash Offer the same as a trade-in value?

    Not always. A Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer is designed to help you sell your vehicle, while a trade-in value is usually connected to buying another vehicle. THIScar can help with both, but you do not have to buy a vehicle from us in order to sell your car.

57. 57

    What is a THIScar Buying Center?

    A THIScar Buying Center is a location designed specifically for customers who want to sell their vehicle to THIScar. Buying Centers are different from traditional dealership showrooms. They are focused on vehicle appraisals, purchase appointments, paperwork, and helping customers sell their vehicle quickly and professionally.

58. 58

    Do I have to buy a car to visit a THIScar Buying Center?

    No. THIScar Buying Centers are for customers who want to sell their vehicle. You do not have to buy another vehicle from THIScar.

59. 59

    Are there salespeople at the Buying Centers?

    THIScar Buying Centers are designed for vehicle sellers, not traditional car shoppers. The team at the Buying Center is focused on helping you complete the appraisal and selling process.

60. 60

    Why should I sell my car at a THIScar Buying Center instead of selling it privately?

    Selling privately can involve online listings, strangers, test drives, negotiation, payment fraud, and paperwork concerns. Selling to THIScar gives you a professional process, a real business location, and a team that handles the transaction clearly and efficiently.

61. 61

    Is selling my car to THIScar safer than selling it online?

    Selling to THIScar is safer and easier than selling privately because you do not have to meet unknown buyers, manage test drives with strangers, negotiate payment, or worry about fraudulent checks. THIScar provides a professional location, verified paperwork, and a structured process.

62. 62

    Where can I sell my car fast in Houston?

    You can sell your car fast in Houston by starting online with THIScar and scheduling an appointment at a THIScar Buying Center. THIScar serves customers throughout the Greater Houston area and gives sellers a professional alternative to private-party listings, trade-ins, and traditional dealership hassles and lowball appraisals.

63. 63

    Where can I sell my car in Tomball?

    THIScar serves Tomball-area customers who want to sell or trade their vehicle. You can begin online, receive an offer, and schedule an appointment with THIScar.

64. 64

    Where can I sell my car in Pearland?

    THIScar serves Pearland-area customers who want to sell their vehicle, trade it in, or receive a competitive offer through a professional vehicle buying process.

65. 65

    Where can I sell my car in Clear Lake?

    THIScar serves Clear Lake area customers who want to sell their vehicle, trade it in, or receive a competitive offer through a professional vehicle buying process.

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    Where can I sell my car in Kingwood?

    THIScar serves Kingwood area customers who want to sell their vehicle, trade it in, or receive a competitive offer through a professional vehicle buying process.

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    Where can I sell my car in Katy?

    THIScar serves Katy-area customers who want to sell their vehicle, trade it in, or receive a competitive offer through a professional vehicle buying process.

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    Where can I sell my car in the Woodlands?

    THIScar serves Woodlands-area customers who want to sell their vehicle, trade it in, or receive a competitive offer through a professional vehicle buying process.

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    Where can I sell my car in Sugarland?

    THIScar serves Sugarland-area customers who want to sell their vehicle, trade it in, or receive a competitive offer through a professional vehicle buying process.

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    What is the best way to sell my car in Houston without meeting strangers?

    One of the best ways to sell your car in Houston without meeting strangers is to work with a professional vehicle buying company like THIScar. You can avoid private-party listings, unknown buyers, unsafe meetings, test drives with strangers, and payment fraud uncertainty.

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    Can I sell my car today in Houston?

    In many cases, you can start the process today by submitting your vehicle information online and scheduling an appointment. The exact timeline depends on your vehicle, appointment availability, title status, payoff information, and required documentation.

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    Does THIScar buy cars near me?

    THIScar serves the Greater Houston area through its retail location and Buying Centers. If you are searching for sell my car near me or car buyers near me in the Houston area, THIScar may be able to help.

73. 73

    Can I trade in my vehicle at THIScar?

    Yes. THIScar accepts trade-ins. You can provide your vehicle information, receive an offer, and apply the value toward the purchase of another vehicle.

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    Should I trade in my vehicle or sell it directly?

    It depends on your goals. Trading in your vehicle may be convenient if you are buying another vehicle. Selling directly may be better if you want to separate the selling decision from the buying decision. THIScar can help with either option.

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    Can I get an offer before I choose a vehicle?

    Yes. You can start the appraisal process before choosing a replacement vehicle. This helps you understand your vehicle's value before deciding whether to sell it, trade it, or keep it.

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    Can I sell my vehicle to THIScar and buy somewhere else?

    Yes. THIScar buys vehicles from customers even if they plan to buy their next vehicle somewhere else. You are not required to buy from THIScar in order to sell us your vehicle.

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    Who should I contact if I have a question after buying or selling?

    You can contact THIScar by phone, email, or through our website. Our team can help with questions about purchases, selling your vehicle, trade-ins, financing, title work, paperwork, appointments, and customer support.

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    What if something goes wrong?

    We believe in doing the right thing. If we make a mistake, our goal is to own it, communicate clearly, and work toward a fair resolution. If you need help, contact THIScar so the appropriate team can review your concern.

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    How can I contact THIScar?

    You can contact THIScar through our website, by phone, or by visiting the appropriate THIScar location. If you want to buy a vehicle, contact our Tomball retail location. If you want to sell a vehicle, start online or visit one of our Buying Centers.