Trying to sell your car on Craigslist, but getting no serious buyers? Your listing might be the problem. A weak or vague car ad can scare away real buyers—or worse, attract scammers. In this guide, we’ll show you how to write a Craigslist car ad that builds trust, gets clicks, and helps you sell faster—without lowering your price.
1. Start with a Strong, Honest Title
Your title is what buyers see first. Make it clear, specific, and honest. Avoid spammy phrases like “MUST SELL NOW” or “TOO CHEAP TO LAST.”
Good examples:
- 2015 Honda Accord EX-L – Clean Title, 87k Miles
- 2012 Toyota Tacoma SR5 – 4WD, No Accidents
- 2018 Ford Escape SEL – One Owner, Great Condition
2. Include Clear, High-Quality Photos
Photos are the #1 trust signal. Include at least 8–12 pictures:
- Front, back, both sides
- Interior: dashboard, seats, controls, odometer
- Engine bay
- Tires & wheels
- VIN plate (optional)
Tip: Clean your car before taking photos, and shoot in daylight for best results.
3. List Key Specs Upfront
Buyers want the basics fast. Start your description with:
- Year, make, model, and trim
- Mileage
- Engine & transmission type
- Drive type (FWD, AWD, 4WD)
- Title status (clean, rebuilt, etc.)
- Price (and whether it’s firm or negotiable)
4. Be Honest About Condition
Trying to hide flaws will only waste your time. Buyers will find out eventually. Be upfront about:
- Any known mechanical issues
- Cosmetic flaws (scratches, dents)
- Check engine lights or recent repairs
Bonus: Showing transparency builds trust—and trust sells cars.
5. Add What Makes Your Car Stand Out
Highlight value-added details that matter to buyers:
- “One owner” or “Dealer-maintained”
- “Non-smoker” or “No pets” interior
- “New tires/brakes within last 6 months”
- “Recently detailed” or “Garage kept”
6. Avoid Red Flags That Sound Like Scams
Don’t write things scammers use, such as:
- “Selling for my sister/friend”
- “Car already shipped” or “eBay handles payment”
- “Won’t respond to calls—text/email only”
Solution: Be clear that you’re the owner and can meet in person. It reassures real buyers.
7. Set a Reasonable Price—and Explain It
Research your car’s fair market value using:
If you’re firm on price, say so. If you’re flexible, say “OBO” (or best offer). Example:
Priced at $9,500 based on KBB private-party value. Reasonable offers considered.
8. Provide Safe Contact and Meeting Info
Use a Google Voice number or Craigslist email relay to protect your privacy. Set expectations clearly:
- “Serious buyers only—no lowballers”
- “Available for test drives after 5pm weekdays”
- “Cash or cashier’s check only”
9. End with a Clear Call to Action
Tell the buyer what to do next. For example:
Call or text 555-123-4567 to schedule a test drive. Clean title in hand, ready to sell today.
Sample Ad Template
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited – AWD – Clean Title – $10,200 OBO Selling my well-maintained 2013 Outback. 112k miles, automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, heated leather seats, moonroof, Bluetooth audio. Clean title in hand, no accidents. Pros: - One-owner vehicle - Non-smoker, garage-kept - New tires (March) - Synthetic oil only Minor flaws: - Small scratch on rear bumper - TPMS sensor light is on (tire shop says sensor needs replacement) Priced below KBB private-party value. Ready to sell—cash or verified cashier’s check only. Text 555-987-6543 for more info or to schedule a test drive.
Final Thoughts: The Best Craigslist Ads Feel Real
A great Craigslist car ad is honest, complete, and easy to read. It gives serious buyers everything they need to make a decision—and filters out the rest. By following these steps, you’ll get more responses, better offers, and sell faster—with less stress.
Remember: You’re not just selling a car. You’re selling trust.