Support
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand you have questions—and possibly concerns. Here's everything you need to know about how we protect you and make selling effortless.
Safety & Privacy
Will strangers come to my house?
Never. Unlike Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, you'll never have unknown buyers visiting your home. Our team handles all showings at our secure facility, and you only meet your dedicated TrueAuto representative — a vetted professional who manages your entire transaction.
How do you verify buyers?
Every potential buyer is pre-qualified and verified before they can view any vehicle. We confirm identity, proof of funds, and purchase intent. You'll never deal with unserious buyers, unreasonable offers, or anyone who makes you uncomfortable.
Is my personal information protected?
Absolutely. Your contact information, address, and personal details are never shared with buyers. All communication goes through TrueAuto, and your information is never sold to third parties.
What if I don't feel comfortable at any point?
You're in control. You can pause or cancel the process at any time with no obligation. TrueAuto is here to advocate for you — if anything feels off, just say the word and we'll handle it.
How is payment handled securely?
All funds flow through TrueAuto as the licensed dealer of record and are transferred directly to your bank within 48 hours of sale completion. You'll never handle cash, checks, or awkward payment situations with buyers.
Rather hear it from a person? Call and ask us anything.
Selling Your Vehicle
Who will I actually be working with?
The founder. TrueAuto is deliberately small: when you call, Alex answers, and Alex personally manages your sale from valuation to the check. A small trusted crew helps with inspections, detailing, and photography, but your point of contact is always one person. No call centers, no handoffs, no 'your rep will get back to you.'
I'm selling a loved one's car. Can you help?
Yes, and you're not alone: cars from an estate, an inheritance, or a spouse's name come to us often. We'll walk you through exactly what's needed for the title transfer, handle the DMV side, and go at your pace. You don't need to know where anything is or how any of it works. If it's easier, we'll simply take the whole thing off your plate.
What if my car doesn't sell?
Then you owe nothing at all. There are no upfront costs and no fees unless your car actually sells. If it isn't moving, we'll tell you honestly why, and you can adjust the price, take it back, or have us bring you the best dealer offer instead. You're never locked in.
How does selling my car with TrueAuto work?
It's simple: Book a free consultation and we'll discuss your vehicle. Once you're ready, TrueAuto schedules a convenient time for our team to inspect your vehicle at your location. We handle everything from there — photography, listing, showings, and the sale. You stay informed at every step but never have to deal with buyers directly.
I don't know much about cars. Is that okay?
Absolutely. That's exactly why we exist. You don't need to know your vehicle's history, understand market values, or negotiate with buyers. TrueAuto handles all the technical details and explains everything in plain terms. Just tell us about your car, and we'll take it from there.
What if I don't know my VIN?
No problem. You can find your VIN on your registration, insurance card, or on a small plate visible through the bottom corner of your windshield on the driver's side. If you're still having trouble, just give us a call and we'll walk you through it—or we can look it up using your license plate.
How much does it cost to sell with TrueAuto?
Nothing upfront, ever, and the full fee schedule is published on our pricing page. In practice: a $30,000 sale costs $1,600, a $50,000 sale costs $2,800, and vehicles over $100,000 are a flat $5,500. The fee comes out of the sale only when your car actually sells. No hidden fees, no surprises, and we only succeed when you do.
How do you determine the value of my car?
We use real transaction data—what similar vehicles have actually sold for recently, not inflated asking prices. Combined with your vehicle's specific condition, mileage, and features, we provide an honest valuation you can trust.
What does the 150-point inspection cover?
We examine everything from engine performance to body condition and document the full picture so there are no surprises. You'll receive a complete report, and this transparency actually helps your car sell faster to serious buyers.
How long does it typically take to sell?
Most vehicles sell within 2-4 weeks. Our professional presentation, fair pricing, and network of verified buyers help vehicles move efficiently—much faster than the months of messages and no-shows typical of DIY selling.
What about all the paperwork?
We handle it all. Title transfer, bill of sale, DMV forms, and any other documentation required. TrueAuto prepares everything and walks you through any signatures needed. No confusing forms, no trips to the DMV.
Can I still drive my car while it's listed?
Yes, you can continue driving your vehicle. Just let us know if the mileage changes significantly, and we'll update the listing accordingly.
Sound like what you've been looking for? Start with a free valuation.
Buying a Vehicle
Why should I buy from TrueAuto?
Every vehicle on TrueAuto has been professionally inspected, detailed, and photographed. You receive complete transparency about the car's condition, fair market pricing with no haggling, and the confidence that comes from our verification process.
Are your prices negotiable?
Our prices are set at fair market value based on real transaction data. This means no games, no haggling, and no wondering if you're getting a good deal. What you see is what you pay.
What does 'TrueAuto Verified' mean?
TrueAuto Verified means the vehicle has passed our comprehensive 150-point inspection, has been professionally detailed, and all information has been verified. You can trust that the listing accurately represents the vehicle.
Can I see the inspection report?
Yes. Every listing includes access to the full inspection report. You can see exactly what our certified professionals found during their evaluation.
Do you offer financing?
We're working with lending partners to offer financing options. Contact us for current availability and to discuss what options might work for your situation.
What's your return policy?
On used vehicles under $40,000, California law lets you purchase a 2-day contract cancellation option, and we'll walk you through exactly how it works before you sign anything. Beyond that, every car comes with a full inspection report up front, so there are no surprises to return it over.
Want a car found, negotiated, and delivered for you?
General Questions
What areas do you serve?
TrueAuto serves the San Francisco Bay Area, with a focus on Silicon Valley and the Peninsula. If you're nearby but unsure, just ask—the answer is usually yes.
Can I speak to someone before getting started?
Of course. We know this is a significant decision. Call us or request a callback, and one of our team members will answer any questions you have—no pressure, no obligation. Many of our clients prefer to talk through the process before submitting their information online.
How is TrueAuto different from CarMax or Carvana?
Those services offer convenience but typically pay 20-30% below what your car actually sells for, because they need that spread to resell it. TrueAuto gets you fair market value while still handling everything for you. The difference is we sell your car to qualified buyers, not to ourselves at a wholesale discount.
Is TrueAuto right for me?
TrueAuto is ideal if you value your time, want fair market value without the DIY hassle, and prefer working with a professional rather than dealing with strangers. If you're looking for the absolute fastest cash offer (even at a significant discount) or enjoy negotiating and managing sales yourself, we may not be the best fit.
What if my car doesn't meet your minimum value?
Our full concierge service focuses on vehicles valued at $30,000 and above, where we can create the most value for you. Under $30,000, ask about the TrueAuto Fast Lane: we shop your car to dealers on your behalf and bring you the best offer, so you still skip every hassle.
Need More Help?
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help, and you'll always reach a person.