Frequently asked questions

Interior Condition Ratings

"Very Good"

The interior is clean and well-maintained, with wear appropriate for the vehicle's age. For newer vehicles, this means minimal signs of use, such as no visible stains, tears, or fading in the upholstery. For older vehicles, some light wear may be acceptable as long as it is not excessive or damaging. Dashboard, controls, and carpets are intact and functional, with no strong odors present.

"Just Okay"

The interior shows moderate wear consistent with the vehicle's age. In newer vehicles, this might include small stains and fading in upholstery. For older vehicles, more noticeable wear, such as larger stains, cuts, and fading, may still fall into this category as long as the overall condition is functional and intact. Odors, such as smoke or pets, may be present but not overwhelming.

"Kind of Rough"

The interior is heavily worn or damaged beyond what is typical for the vehicle's age. For newer vehicles, this could mean large tears, severe stains, or broken components. For older vehicles, this might include excessive wear, odors, or damage that significantly detracts from usability or appearance.

Exterior Condition Ratings

"Very Good"

The exterior is in excellent condition for the vehicle's age. On a newer car, this means almost no noticeable blemishes—just minor surface scratches or chips. For an older vehicle, small dents or deeper scratches in the paint might still qualify as “Very Good”.

"Just Okay"

The exterior shows moderate wear consistent with the vehicle's age. On a newer car, this might include surface scratches, deep scratches shorter than a dollar bill, small dents, or minor fading. For older vehicles, more pronounced issues, like larger scratches or dents, could still fall into this category.

"Kind of Rough"

The exterior has significant damage that exceeds what would typically be expected for the vehicle's age. For newer vehicles, this might mean large dents, deep scratches, or peeling paint. For older vehicles, extensive rust, misaligned panels, or other major damage would fall into this category.

Tire Condition Ratings

"Like New"

Tread depth of 10/32" (7.9 mm) or more, no visible damage, ready for many miles.

"Okay"

Tread depth between 7/32" (5.5 mm) and 5/32" (4 mm), shows some wear but still good for driving.

"Bad"

Tread depth between 5/32" (4 mm) and 3/32" (2.4 mm), significant wear, replace soon.

"Poor"

Tread depth of 3/32" (2.4 mm) or less. Replace immediately for safety.

*Subject to in-store condition review.

The 'cash now' offer is valid for 7 days or up to 250 miles from the time of submission, whichever comes first.

We are open to purchasing a wide range of vehicles, as long as they can be driven, have a clean title, and are in overall good enough condition to have a means to sell them. Whether it’s a sedan, SUV, or truck we’re here to help. To determine if we can purchase your car, please reach out to us directly and provide details about your vehicle’s condition. Our team will be more than happy to assist!

No, not every vehicle qualifies. The eligibility for our "More Cash Later" option is subject to the discretion of our retail partners. They assess each vehicle based on their specific criteria for resale, which may include considerations beyond strict year or mileage limits. For more details, please speak with one of our agents who can provide further information and guidance.

In general we are unable to purchase vehicles with salvage, rebuilt, or branded titles. However, in some cases we may be able to help! Please give us a call to speak with an agent. (314) 455-8652

Yes, an accident or any Carfax blemish can impact your offer. This is because potential buyers consider Carfax history when making purchasing decisions. On our intake form, select "major accident" if multiple panels were damaged—a good rule of thumb is if the repairs exceeded $5,000. For fender benders, selecting "minor accident" should be fine. Deductions vary based on the vehicle type, value, and market conditions—Exotic vehicles are typically more affected by a Carfax blemish.

It’s a real cash offer based on the described condition!

If you think our website's questions overlooked something, please let us know in the comment section when submitting or while speaking with an agent. Note that uploaded photos are not factored into the automated online offer.

Just bring your vehicle to us and in most cases we’ll cut you a check on the spot after completing a rapid inspection to confirm the condition and vehicle details.

One of our friendly associates will reach out to schedule an intake appointment. Or you can call us at 314-455-8652 for immediate assistance.

Vehicle Title: Ensure you have the original document. Photocopies are not accepted. All non-TOD parties must be present.

Photo ID: We accept current government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license.

Vehicle Registration: If your car is registered outside of Missouri, please provide the registration document.

Key(s): If applicable, bring all sets of keys / key fobs for your car.

Notarized Lien Release: If your loan has been paid off but the lien is still indicated on the front of the title, provide a notarized lien release.

We use well-known appraisal tools like Kelley Blue Book, as well as the live retail market, to determine your vehicle’s worth.

Even with an existing loan, we can still purchase your vehicle! Our professional administrative staff handles all loan payoffs. At the time of sale, your SellMyCarSTL agent will call your lender to retrieve the “10-day payoff.” Depending on whether or not the loan balance is above or below the sale price will determine how we settle up on payment. If there is negative equity, it will be collected at the time of sale via debit/credit card.

Absolutely! We’re committed to considering the purchase of your car, even if it has an open recall. There are a few cases where we cannot make a purchase, as our main concern is safety—ensuring that the recall doesn’t jeopardize the well-being of our property or personnel. Examples include cases where there’s a critical safety issue, like an un-repaired airbag recall with no available remedy.

Yes, you may still be able to sell your car to SellMyCarSTL even if you have lost the title. However, this is subject to certain conditions. Please call to verify (314) 455-8652