20 Important Questions You Should Answer When Selling Car in KSA
Selling your car requires understanding several important aspects to ensure you get the best price as quickly as possible, from knowing how to set the right price and accurately inspecting the condition of the vehicle, to the necessary legal procedures and practical tips, all these elements play a crucial role in the success of the sale process. In the following lines, we answer the most important questions you may face while selling your car and explain how you can sell it easily and safely through the Sayara platform, which offers you a seamless experience without complications or lengthy negotiations.
Important Questions About Price
Among the most important points to consider when pricing your car are the following:
What is the appropriate price for my car based on its model and condition in the current Saudi market?
Determining the appropriate price is the first step to selling your car quickly and without loss, and it depends on factors such as the year of manufacture, type of car, mechanical condition, and mileage. To know the fair price, compare it to similar models on sites like “Sayara” or valuation apps, and focus on prices that are actually being sold, not just those that are advertised.
Can I sell the car in installments or only for cash?
Yes, you can sell the car for cash or in installments, but cash sales are easier, quicker, and less risky. If you choose installments, make sure to legally document the contract, specify a down payment, and set a clear installment schedule. It is preferable to deal through an accredited party or lawyer to ensure your rights, as personal installment sales without guarantees may expose you to payment issues.
Does the number of kilometers driven significantly affect the car’s price?
Yes, it directly affects the price, as mileage (the number of kilometers the car has traveled) is one of the most important factors buyers use to assess the value of the car. The fewer the kilometers, the higher the potential value. Cars with high mileage (over 150,000 km, for example) lose a significant portion of their value, especially if there is no clear maintenance record. However, if the car is in excellent mechanical condition and has been regularly maintained, a buyer may accept a higher price despite high mileage.
Should I lower the price if the car needs some repairs or maintenance?
Definitely, buyers usually perform a thorough inspection of the car, and any notes on defects or the need for maintenance (such as tire wear, cooling system issues, or oil leaks) will be a reason to lower the price. It is better to repair essential defects before offering the car for sale, as these repairs may cost you significantly less than the value you will lose when attempting to sell a car that is not ready.
How do I include the service fees of the Absher platform and government fees in the final price when selling?
Service fees for sales through the Absher platform are usually 230 Saudi Riyals and are to be paid by the buyer or agreed upon between the two parties. However, it is better to mention these fees separately from the price of the car, and when agreeing with the buyer, ensure to clarify whether the fees will be added to the price or paid by one of the parties.
What is the best way to sell the car quickly and at the best price?
The best way to sell your car quickly and at the best price starts with properly preparing the car: clean it, fix any visible defects, and take pictures from multiple angles. When advertising, be transparent and mention all important details such as model, mileage, and overall condition. If you want to avoid negotiations and dealing with unserious buyers, you can use the “Sayara” platform, where the car is displayed, inspected for free, and you receive a formal price offer. If you accept, the car will be collected from your location, and the ownership will be transferred without any hassle.
Important Questions About Vehicle Condition
To ensure that your vehicle is in a condition that allows you to sell it with confidence and transparency, ask yourself the following:
Is the car in good condition and free of major faults?
The mechanical condition of the car is one of the most important factors that influence the purchasing decision. Many buyers in Saudi Arabia prefer cars that do not require immediate repairs or additional costs after purchase. Therefore, it is essential to have the car inspected at an accredited workshop or specialized center and request a technical report on the mechanical condition of the engine, transmission, brakes, air conditioning, and suspension system. If there are major faults like oil leaks, weak transmission, or abnormal noises, it is advisable to repair them or clearly inform the buyer and reduce the price.
Does the car have a complete and regular maintenance record?
Having a documented maintenance record enhances trust and increases the car’s value in the eyes of the buyer. The record shows that you have been taking care of the car regularly and that it has not been neglected. Keep invoices for oil changes, regular maintenance, and replacement of essential parts, as well as periodic inspection certificates. Even if you have done maintenance at non-accredited workshops, gather any evidence. Some people use electronic applications or handbooks to document maintenance.
Has the car undergone a recent and valid periodic inspection?
A periodic inspection is mandatory for any sale or transfer of ownership in Saudi Arabia, as it shows that the car is free from dangerous faults and is roadworthy. Having a valid inspection saves time and effort for the buyer and gives you a competitive edge. If the inspection has expired, it is preferable to renew it before offering the car for sale, as it will save the buyer the hassle of going for inspection and possibly discovering undisclosed defects.
Are there any registered traffic violations on the car?
Traffic violations may hinder the transfer of ownership through the “Absher” platform, as it is required to settle all violations before completing the sale process. You can check for violations through your “Absher” account, and it is preferable to pay any violations in advance to expedite the procedures. Disclosing to the buyer any violations (if they exist) reflects honesty and credibility.
What is the mileage of the car?
Mileage is an indicator of the car’s consumption. A car that has traveled 60,000 km, for example, is completely different from one that has traveled 250,000 km, even if they are the same model. You should be transparent in your advertisement and not try to downplay or hide the number, as most buyers request electronic inspections or verify it by reading the dashboard display in front of them. Every 20-30,000 km typically requires maintenance or replacement of certain parts, which is something the buyer will take into account.
Important Legal Questions
Among the legal aspects that cannot be ignored during the sale process are the following:
Is the car insurance valid?
Car insurance is a prerequisite for completing the transfer of ownership. If the insurance has expired, the request on the “Absher” platform will not be accepted. You can easily check the insurance status through the “Najm” or “Absher” website. It is advisable to temporarily renew the insurance even if it is for a short period (for example, one or two months) to facilitate the transfer of ownership and ensure a speedy sale.
Is the vehicle registration valid and not expired?
The vehicle registration (the certificate) is a basic document that proves the legal registration of the car. If it is expired, you will not be able to transfer ownership through the “Absher” platform, even if the periodic inspection and insurance are valid. Before offering the car for sale, ensure that the certificate is renewed. You can easily do this through your “Absher” account after paying any fines, as some dealers and online platforms refuse to accept cars with expired certificates. Therefore, renewing it makes it easier for you to sell and shows the buyer your interest in the car.
Is the car suspended or requested, or is there a lien on it?
If the car has a loss report, judicial seizure, or a stop order from traffic or the court, you will not be able to sell it. This information can be verified through “Absher” or by checking with traffic authorities. Any attempt to sell a suspended or requested car is considered illegal and may expose you to accountability. Ensure the legal status of the car before starting any advertisements.
What are the required documents and conditions to complete the sale process through the Absher platform?
To complete the sale of the car electronically through the “Absher” platform, a set of conditions and documents must be available for both the seller and buyer, which are as follows:
- Both the seller and buyer must be registered on the Absher platform with activated accounts.
- The value of the vehicle must be between 500 Riyals and 1,000,000 Riyals.
- The condition of the vehicle must be sound (not stopped, missing, requested by security, or judicially seized).
- Citizens are permitted to sell vehicles of type “Private” or “Private Transport,” while residents can only purchase “Private” vehicles.
- The registration certificate must be valid.
- The car must have passed a valid periodic inspection.
- The car must have valid insurance at the time of sale.
- Government sale fees (230 Riyals) must be paid through the “SADAD” system.
- No traffic violations should be on the buyer or the vehicle.
- For residents: they can own a maximum of two “Private” vehicles, and each vehicle should not exceed 8 seats.
Does the buyer need to be registered on the Absher platform to complete the sale?
Yes, subscription to “Absher” is necessary for both parties, as the sale process relies on logging in and documenting through the system. Without an activated account, electronic selling cannot be executed, so it is advisable to ensure in advance that the buyer has an account in “Absher” activated with the “Documentation” service to expedite the process.
What are the government fees and service charges that must be paid when selling?
The ownership transfer fee is currently 230 Saudi Riyals (for private cars) and is usually paid by the buyer, unless otherwise agreed. The amount is paid via the “SADAD” service, and then the sale process is documented through “Absher.” There are no additional fees except when using dealership or intermediary services.
Can I cancel the sale after starting the electronic sale process?
Yes, you can cancel the sale process as long as it has not been confirmed by the other party or the amount has not been paid. After both parties confirm, it is difficult to retract, especially if the money has been transferred. It is always advisable to verify all details before final approval, as canceling after receiving money may require intervention from the relevant authorities.
How do I ensure my rights and secure the sale process with the buyer?
To ensure your rights during the sale, do not deliver the car until the transfer of ownership is officially completed through “Absher” and you have received the amount in your bank account. Avoid undocumented transactions and make sure to cancel any previous authorizations. For more comfort, you can sell your car through the “Sayara” website, where the vehicle is inspected, a formal offer is presented, and the car is received, completing all procedures without the need for negotiation or worry about fraud.
Important Tips
Here are some practical tips that will help you sell your car easily and safely:
Do I need to clean the car or repair some faults before selling?
Yes, properly preparing the car leaves a positive first impression and may lead to a higher price. Wash the car inside and out, clean the engine, eliminate bad odors, and fix visible faults like scratches or lighting issues. Some small details can make a big difference in the buyer’s decision, especially for cars sold directly by the owner.
How can I protect myself from fraud when selling the car?
To protect yourself from any fraud when selling the car, completely avoid accepting personal checks, as they may be insufficient or cancelable. Do not deal with any buyer who asks to send the car to a distant area before transferring the amount, as these are some of the most common scams. Always ensure that payment is made through official and trusted channels such as direct bank transfer, preferably in front of you or after completing the ownership transfer. Do not hand over the car key or registration certificate until you confirm that the amount has actually been transferred to your account. It is also advised to stay away from unknown purchasing agents or those who ask for a “down payment commission” or any amounts for completing the transaction, as these are often fraudulent attempts.
What is the best way to photograph my car?
To attract the buyer’s attention and increase the chances of selling, make sure to photograph your car using a good camera or high-resolution phone. Choose to take pictures during daylight for clear natural lighting, and it is preferable that the background is clean and tidy (like parking lots or in front of a uniform-colored wall). Take comprehensive pictures of the car from all angles: front, side, and rear, and a clear picture of the inside showing the seats and dashboard. Don’t forget to photograph the engine, dashboard display showing the mileage, and the state of the tires, as well as important documents like the periodic inspection and registration certificate. These details give the buyer confidence and save them many questions.
What is the best platform to display my car for sale?
The Sayara platform is an excellent choice if you are looking for a quick and secure way to sell your car without needing advertisements or negotiations. All you have to do is enter your car’s information, schedule an inspection appointment, and receive a price offer. If you agree, the car is collected from your location, and all procedures are completed officially, including the ownership transfer and transferring the amount to your account.
Sell Your Car through Sayara
Sayara offers an outstanding experience for selling cars through detailed listings that include photos and specifications, helping to accelerate the sale process. It does not bind you to random buyers or long negotiations. Instead, it buys your car directly, handling everything on your behalf from inspection to transferring the amount, and you can sell your car through the following link:
How is the sale process carried out?
The sale process to “Sayara” is simple and clear:
- Information about your car: Start by filling out an electronic form containing basic data about your car such as model, year, mileage, and type of transmission.
- Schedule an inspection appointment: An appointment for a free inspection of the car is scheduled at an accredited center, without needing to upload photos or documents in advance.
- Receive a price offer: After the inspection, you receive a formal offer from the “Sayara” team, with no obligation to accept it.
- Sign and receive the amount: If you agree on the price, the contract is electronically signed, the car is collected from your location, and the amount is transferred to your account immediately.
Why choose “Syarah”?
What sets “Syarah” apart is that it offers a completely different experience compared to traditional selling:
- No need for advertisements or contact with buyers.
- Free inspection of the car with no additional cost.
- The car is collected directly from your home.
- Complete ownership transfer and sale paperwork without visiting traffic.
- No negotiation or delay, just a formal and quick price offer.
- Customer trust and tangible results: over 800 cars have been purchased through Sayara.
In conclusion, successfully selling your car requires good preparation, knowledge of the market, and attention to all legal and technical details to ensure a smooth and safe transaction. Whether you choose traditional selling or specialized platforms like Sayara, ensure transparency and clarity at every step to avoid problems and expedite the sale process. By following the previous tips and guidelines, you can achieve the best price for your car with the least effort possible, receive your dues quickly and safely, and do not hesitate to use trusted platforms that provide you with full support and save you time.