The easiest way to discard your used car is by trading it in on another car but it isn't the most cost efficient way. To maximize your return it is best to sell your car yourself. This will however require additional work on your part.

The first thing you must do is to determine the value of your car and decide on a fair price. To help you determine this you can compare cars already for sale with the prices listed in your local newspaper classifieds or go online and visit Kelly Blue Book.

Next you should place an ad in your local newspapers and use free on-line classifieds sites in order to gain the most ad exposure. Your ad should list the year, model and body style, number of miles, engine size, and color. Always be honest and don't exaggerate the condition of your car. Buyers respond well to such phrases as; real clean, low mileage, one owner, excellent fuel economy, regular service records, and so on. Being honest and up front will make selling your car a pleasant experience. You could also place a "For Sale" sign in the window with your number on it.

It is important to make sure the car is cleaned and that the oil has been recently changed. There is nothing worse than having a prospective buyer check and find dirty oil in the motor. Make sure that you have all repair documentation on hand as well.

After your ads have been placed you will start to get calls. Be sure to offer as much detail about the car on the phone to prevent wasting your time showing it and by having someone travel to your location just to have them find out something about the car you could have easily mentioned before.

In no time you will sell your car, make sure you call your state Division of Motor Vehicles to determine the process for transferring the title to the new owner. The process usually consists of you signing and dating the title before you pass it on to the buyer and notifying the DMV of the transaction. To prevent additional processing time and paperwork make sure that the transfer process is followed correctly.

And finally, never let someone take your car alone. Always go with them on the test drive to prevent damage or theft. When finalizing the deal do not accept a personal check or release your car by only accepting a down payment but instead require cash or a certified bank check.