Frequently asked questions

Here are the most frequently asked questions, if you have any questions, they're most likely on this page. If not, then please don't hesitate to contact us.

• Who will actually buy my car?
• What is the time scale involved?
• How will I get paid?
• My car still has outstanding finance. Can I still sell it?
• I owe more than my car is worth. Is this a problem?
• My car is a 'non-runner', will I still receive an offer?
• I have a private registration plate. Is this a problem?
• This all seems too good be true, what's in it for you?
• Come on...are there really no hidden costs?

Who will actually buy my car?

The actual buyer of your car will be Car Arena, we purchase the cars on behalf of our subscribing dealers who have made the highest offer. This means we can ensure your sale is carried out professionally and to the highest standards. Your personal details are not distributed around the internet which means our site is one of the most secure ways to sell your car.

What is the time scale involved?

Your vehicle information is processed immediately and it is possible you will receive an offer almost instantly. We may need to contact you for a little more information to try and get you a better offer. Once you have agreed a sale, we like to collect the car as soon as possible. You liaise directly with us to arrange a time and date that is convenient for you. We come to you to collect the car.

How will I get paid?

You are paid by secure bank transfer (CHAPS) immediately on collection. We don’t take your car and pay you three to five days later. You are paid in full upon collection, we even wait with you until you have been able to confirm the funds are in your bank account before we leave with your car.

My car still has outstanding finance. Can I still sell it?

Outstanding finance can be easily settled as part of the transaction. All we need is a settlement figure from your finance company, this can be faxed to us on 01482 386576.

I owe more than my car is worth. Is this a problem?

No, this isn’t a problem. We can still buy your car on behalf of our dealers, but you would obviously be required to pay any shortfall.

My car is a 'non-runner', will I still receive an offer?

We do have dealers that subscribe to our site that do buy non runners, obviously newer cars, in good condition are easier to sell, but our service is free so why not give it a try.

I have a private registration plate. Is this a problem?

No problem, though it is essential that you inform Car Arena that you will be transferring your number plate or putting it on retention.

Remember, retention can take some time to complete and may alter the valuation slightly if collection is delayed too long. We are unable to buy your car until you have the V5 back from the DVLA with the correct number plate showing.

This all seems too good be true, what's in it for you?

Don’t worry about us...we make our money from charging our registered dealers for each car we buy for them.

It’s worth noting that - particularly in the current economic climate – good quality stock vehicles are increasingly in demand and dealers are happy to utilize Car Arena’s trader platform to maximise buying opportunities.

The important thing to remember is that there is absolutely no charge to you!

Come on...are there really no hidden costs?

Most definitely not. Our service is absolutely FREE to you, the private seller. The final offer we agree on is the amount you will be paid in full on collection. No administration fees, no tax contribution fees, no collection fees, nothing!