How to sell a car in Utah: The KSL Cars seller checklist

Figuring out how to sell your car in Utah comes with a lot of questions. Will you find a trustworthy buyer? Will you get a good return? Did you spell “Hyundai” right? It’s enough to make anyone consider driving around with a price scribbled on the back of their car.

Put those markers down — KSL Cars is here to save the day. With about 5 million users, KSL Cars is the largest and most trusted way for local sellers to get cash for their vehicles. And with this handy seller checklist, you can make sure everything's in order before watching your car drive off into the sunset.

1. Paperwork 

Before you get too excited about listing your car online, make sure the paperwork is in order. Taking care of the basics upfront will ensure that you sell your used car as smoothly as possible and ultimately get the return you want. 

Get an inspection 

First things first — take your car to a trusted mechanic to give it a good look over. This gives you an idea of any problems you need to fix before selling and provides more necessary context when pricing your vehicle.

Do some market research

Take a look online at cars with the same make, model and year and see what prices they’re going for. Take into account the mileage and condition of your car when comparing. Kelley Blue Book and National Automobile Dealers Association values are important as well, as banks will usually use them to evaluate a buyer’s loan. You can also use the search filters on KSL Cars to find cars with nearly identical characteristics and see what those competing vehicles are priced at. 

Set an asking price

Use your research to land on a realistic asking price. Keep your motivation for selling in mind when valuing your car. Are you set on cashing in? Stand pat on your price.

Trying to sell as quickly as possible? Consider coming down a bit. In all cases, be realistic with your expectations. It’ll be easiest for you and the buyer if you’re not playing games. 

Review state requirements

Depending on the state in which you're selling your car there will be different requirements and responsibilities. Make sure you’re prepared by checking your state’s site.

• Utah

• Idaho (here and here)

Gather all necessary documents

In Utah and Idaho, this includes the vehicle title, a bill of sale and an odometer disclosure in nearly all cases. It may also include maintenance records, the current registration, a vehicle history report or other documents that might be requested by the buyer. 

• Bill of sale: Utah, Idaho. 

• Odometer disclosure: Utah, Idaho (part of the Release of Liability). 

• Application for duplicate title: Utah, Idaho.

2. Cleaning up

A clean car photographs better, shows better and sells better  — simple as that. Not only does cleaning help your car look its best online, but it also shows potential buyers that you've taken good care of it. A small effort can make a big difference once your listing goes live.

Remove all personal items

The first step in the makeover process is to remove everything from your car. That means trash, sunglasses, maps, jackets, cords, chargers, CD binders (you still have a CD binder?) and anything else that may be lying around. Think you’ve got it all? Be sure to check everywhere, including: 

• Center console

• Glove compartment

• Visor storage

• Seatback pockets

• Underneath seats

• Trunk/cargo area

Do a deep clean

Take your car through the local car wash, clean any surfaces inside that might be dirty and vacuum as much as possible. A clean car helps buyers feel confident and increases your chances of strong offers.

Remove your license plates

In Utah, private-party sellers must remove license plates before transferring ownership. Be sure to do so before you take pictures for your listing to protect your privacy.

Hang onto your license plates after you remove them, either to transfer to another vehicle or to properly surrender to the DMV. 

Take (good) pictures

Follow these guidelines to make sure your listing generates as much interest as possible and portrays your car in the best possible light.

• Use only original photos (no stock photos)

• Shoot photos right before sunrise or after sunset for the most flattering light

• Include a ¾-angle exterior shot 

• Include an interior view of the cabin

• Include closeups of various parts, even those that aren’t in perfect condition

• Optimize all images for mobile

• Be transparent about any scrapes or dents

3. Saying goodbye

Once your car is cleaned, prepped and ready, it's time to head over to KSL Cars and get your ride in front of Utah's largest collection of local buyers.

Find a replacement for your old car here!

List your car on KSL Cars

As you’re creating your listing, try to make your description as personal and unique as possible. Share what you love about the car, notable feature and why you're selling it. A personal touch builds trust and helps your listing stand out. Check out our guides for adding a listing on mobile and desktop. 

Stay scam aware

Practice safety throughout the selling process. When meeting potential buyers, make sure to do so in a public location. Try and find a busy parking lot in a location that’s convenient for the two of you. Bring along a friend or family member, or share your location with one if they can’t make it.

Trust your instincts — if something sounds like a scam, it likely is. Review our list of common scam practices to stay safe. 

Verify payment 

Utah private-party sales are final, so verify payment before transferring ownership, even when you think you’ve found the most trustworthy buyer imaginable.

• Confirm cashier's check or money order with the issuing bank.

• Never accept any type of overpayment

• Use a counterfeit detector pen for cash transactions.

Execute required documents 

Gather the documents from earlier (title, bill of sale and odometer disclosure) to sign, submit and transfer as required. Provide maintenance history, vehicle history reports and warranty information (if applicable and transferable) to the new owner, and report the sale to the Division of Motor Vehicles. 

4. After the sale

Once the car has officially changed hands, wrap up a few final tasks to close out the sale.

Make appropriate cancellations/transfers

Make sure you aren’t paying for any continuing services on your old car. That means insurance, electronic toll passes, radio subscriptions, in-vehicle safety/security systems or any other service attached to the vehicle.

Delete your listing or mark it as 'sold'

It may sound like this is a favor for KSL Cars. Trust us — this is a favor for yourself, unless you want 10 calls a day asking if your car is still available. Who knows, maybe you’re a people person! 

Share your positive KSL Cars experience

If your sale went smoothly, considering sharing your experience with friends, family or anyone you know who may be selling a vehicle soon.

Sell with confidence on KSL Cars

Selling a vehicle in Utah doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right preparation using this checklist, you can move through the process with confidence, from inspection and pricing to photos, safety and paperwork. Once everything is ready, your car will be well positioned to attract trustworthy buyers.

List your car on KSL Cars to reach an active local marketplace and complete your sale.