Selling a Second-Hand / Used Car in South Africa online with Legal documents

Have you considered selling or buying a second-hand car online? Well, in essence, you are not purchasing the car online, but rather, online services such as Dot24, Autotrader, and Cars,co,za merely work as a medium to connect buyers and sellers. However, buying or selling a used car online using such platforms may require a lot of documentation, which may sound unnecessary, but very helpful with the process. This is because documentation of car purchases is the most crucial step to take no matter how time-consuming it may be.

We are headed to 2025, and yet our economy is still suffering - every month things keep getting more expensive, Growing up hearing on the news that petrol has gone up by a few cents puzzled me - especially when polo drivers complained, I only understood it years later as I grew older. But now it may be time to sell your second-hand/used car or perhaps trade in for a newer car. 

You can sell privately or as a dealer on dot24. Sometimes it's often a good idea to sell your car if it's putting strain on your budget. You can always opt for a cheap car. 

Here's what you need to know when you are selling a car

More people opt for Facebook Market, while others would rather browse through cars.co.za, Autotrader, or perhaps dot24.co.za - because of the scams surrounding social media, people are a bit skeptical when it comes to buying a car from the FB Market.

The number #1 platform to sell your car online is through dot24 - which gives you the 24-day strategy to sell your car online to successfully make a sale.

•  Value Your Car

We currently do not have software to value your car on dot24, however, we have a suggestion: You can make use of Autotrader's platform to access the valuation tool. It is free to use and it is considered one of the best tools to evaluate your car's worth. 

• Platforms to use online

We have already suggested cars.co.za, Autotrader, and now, the newly developed Dot24. You can sell your car privately or as a dealer - registering your company on our platform is very easy, after registration, you can simply upgrade your account as a business to access advanced tools. 

Dot24 offers an option for private sellers and dealers, however - first registration is the same for everyone - dealers will then have the option to register their car dealership company. 

Also, consider the following:

1. Paperwork needed to sell your car privately
2. The importance of a roadworthy certificate
3. Buying privately: The pros and cons
4. Selling your car privately

Ever considered selling your car to a dealer? This is probably one of the quickest ways in South Africa to sell your car. Dealers will evaluate your car and give you an offer, the only problem about it is that you may not get the best offer for your car. Remember, as a dealership owner, profit is of vital importance. 

Also, consider the following:

1. Selling a car to a dealership?
2. Dealership Prices - when selling your car?
3. Selling your car privately?
4. Sell or trade in a car, which is better?

• Advertise Your Car

Advertising isn't just for big companies, when you have listed your car, our fair bit is to put it online for you with all the information provided. Once you get your link, advertise your car the best possible way you can. 

Upload your car in our platform as part of advertising the car, and share it online who other users to see your ad. You can make a sale online.

• Complete The Sale

There are 1000s of potential buyers online, once you have found a buyer, you will then have to transfer ownership of the car to the new owner. 

Requirements for the process

1. Seller's ID Document
2. Vehicle Settlement Letter
3. Proof of Ownership
4.  Notification of change of ownership certificate
5. Vehicle registration certificate
6. Proof of sale

Changing Ownership and Transferring Documents:

Here's full information to understand what's required to successfully change the documents for a second-hand or Used Car in South Africa. 

Gather Required Documents:

• Driver’s license
• Bill of sale
• Vehicle history report
• ID card

Visit the Registration Authority:

• Go to your nearest registration office to initiate the process.

Complete the Title Transfer Form:

• Both buyer and seller must fill out and sign the form.

Submit Documents:

• Hand in the completed Title Transfer form along with all required documents.

Pay Required Fees:

• Budget for registration, taxes, and administrative fees.

Temporary Operating Permit:

• If the buyer doesn’t have existing plates, they may receive a temporary permit.

Receive New Title and Registration:

• The DMV will issue a new Certificate of Title and registration in the buyer’s name.

Install New Plates:

• If new plates are issued, the buyer should install them.

Update Insurance:

• Notify the insurance company of the ownership change and update the policy.

Common Mistakes When Buying a Second-Hand Car

• Assuming Seller’s Legal Ownership Without Verification:

It's crucial to verify that the seller legally owns the vehicle. Failing to do so can result in legal disputes over ownership rights.

• Incomplete or Incorrect Paperwork:

Ensure all paperwork is accurate and complete. Mistakes or missing documents can cause delays in transferring ownership and may require additional steps to correct.

• Neglecting Thorough Inspection and Vehicle History Check:

Failing to thoroughly inspect the car or obtain a vehicle history report can lead to unexpected expenses or ownership disputes later on.

Start selling your car on Dot24