Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Your Car
Thinking about selling your car to Approved Cars? Here are answers to some of the most common questions about our free valuations, appointments, payments and vehicle collection.
We're an independent used car dealership based in Chertsey, Surrey, offering a straightforward, friendly and no-pressure way to sell your vehicle.
How do I obtain a valuation?
Simply complete the valuation enquiry form on our
Sell Your Car page with your vehicle's details. Alternatively, call us on 0208 681 1600 or email approvedcarslewis@outlook.com. We'll review your information and get back to you with a valuation or any additional questions.
Will you collect my car?
Yes, we can arrange vehicle collection in many cases. Let us know your location and availability, and we'll discuss a convenient arrangement. You're also welcome to bring your vehicle to our dealership on Blackbess Lane in Chertsey by appointment.
Will you buy any car?
We consider a wide range of vehicles, although we can't guarantee an offer on every car. It depends on factors such as age, mileage, condition, history and current market demand. We'll let you know whether your vehicle is something we're interested in purchasing.
My car has faults. Will you still buy it?
Possibly. We understand that used cars aren't always perfect. Please tell us about any known mechanical issues, warning lights, damage or other faults when requesting your valuation. We'll consider the information and let you know whether we're able to make an offer.
There is finance outstanding. Will you still buy it?
Yes, we can consider purchasing vehicles with outstanding finance. We'll need details of your finance provider and a current settlement figure. Where agreed, we can arrange for the outstanding balance to be settled directly with the finance company, with any remaining equity paid to you. This is subject to verification and the agreed purchase price.
Do you charge an administration fee?
No. We don't charge administration fees for selling your car to us. The agreed purchase price won't be reduced by unexpected admin charges.
Will you haggle during the appointment?
Our aim is to offer a fair valuation from the outset. If your vehicle matches the description, history and condition provided, we'll aim to honour the agreed valuation. If an inspection reveals significant differences or previously undisclosed faults, we'll explain any proposed adjustment before you decide whether to proceed.
When will I receive payment for my car?
Once we've inspected your vehicle, completed the necessary checks and agreed the purchase, we'll arrange payment by bank transfer. We aim to make payment promptly, and you won't be expected to hand over your vehicle until the agreed payment arrangements have been completed.
My car is an insurance write-off. Will you still buy it?
We don't currently purchase vehicles recorded as insurance category write-offs. We also carry out vehicle history checks as part of our buying process. Please disclose any previous insurance damage or write-off history when enquiring.
How do I get home if I bring my car to you?
Our dealership is conveniently located opposite Chertsey railway station, making it easy to travel home after selling your car. If you need assistance with your onward journey, please let us know when arranging your appointment and we'll see what we can do.
How long will my appointment take?
Most vehicle appraisal appointments take approximately 30 minutes, although this can vary depending on the vehicle, paperwork and any additional checks required. We'll aim to make the process as straightforward as possible.
I don't have a V5C registration document. Will you still buy my car?
We normally require the current V5C registration document and suitable photographic identification before purchasing a vehicle. If you've lost your V5C, you can apply for a replacement through the
official GOV.UK website. Please contact us if you're unsure what documentation is required.
How will you pay me?
We normally pay by secure bank transfer to the agreed account. Please have your bank details available when completing the sale. Payment times can vary depending on banking checks and processing, and we'll confirm the arrangements with you before handover.
I live a long way away. Will you still buy my car?
Potentially, yes. Although we're based in Chertsey, Surrey, we may travel further for suitable vehicles. We can initially assess your car using the information, photographs and videos you provide before discussing whether collection or a viewing can be arranged.
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
Please bring your V5C registration document, valid photographic identification, service history, MOT and repair records, all available keys, locking wheel nut key and any other items supplied with the vehicle. You'll also need your bank details for payment. If there's outstanding finance, please provide the relevant settlement information.
My name isn't on the V5C. Will you still buy my car?
We need to establish that the person selling the vehicle is legally entitled to do so. We normally require identification and documentation that matches the vehicle's registered keeper details, although the registered keeper isn't necessarily the legal owner. Please contact us before arranging an appointment if the V5C is in another person's name.
My car doesn't have a valid MOT. Will you still buy it?
We normally require vehicles to have at least
three months' MOT remaining when purchasing them. If your MOT is due to expire soon or has already expired, please let us know before requesting a valuation.
What happens to the remaining road tax on my car?
When you sell your vehicle, the DVLA must be notified of the change of keeper. Your existing vehicle tax will be cancelled, and the DVLA will automatically refund any remaining full months of tax where applicable.
If you pay by Direct Debit, this will normally be cancelled automatically when the DVLA processes the change. You can find further information on
GOV.UK.
Ready to Sell Your Car?
Get started with a free, no-obligation valuation from Approved Cars in Chertsey.
Approved Cars – Your Trusted Car People.