Selling Your Right-Hand Drive UK Registered Car to a UK-Based Person in the EU

Are you looking to sell your right-hand drive UK registered car to a UK-based individual currently residing in the EU, who plans to return to the UK?

Whether you’re upgrading to a new vehicle or simply looking to part ways with your current one, navigating this unique selling scenario requires careful consideration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully sell your right-hand drive UK registered car to a UK-based person in the EU.

Understanding the Market Dynamics:

While most countries in the EU predominantly use left-hand drive vehicles, there are still niche markets and communities of UK expats and enthusiasts who prefer right-hand drive cars. Selling your UK registered car to a UK-based person living in the EU who intends to return to the UK can be an attractive option for both parties.

According to data from the European Commission, there are approximately 1.2 million UK nationals living in the EU, many of whom may be interested in purchasing a right-hand drive car with plans to return to the UK in the future.

Legal Considerations:

Since both you (the seller) and the potential buyer are UK-based individuals, the legal considerations for selling the car remain largely unchanged from a domestic UK sale. However, it’s essential to ensure that all necessary paperwork and documentation are completed accurately to facilitate the smooth transfer of ownership.

The Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C) plays a crucial role in the selling process. As the seller, you must complete section 6 of the V5C and provide it to the buyer. The buyer will then need to complete their details in section 6 and send the updated V5C to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to transfer ownership officially.

Failure to update the V5C with the buyer’s details can lead to complications, such as liability for traffic offenses or parking fines incurred by the new owner. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that the V5C transfer is completed promptly and accurately.

Now, there is a risk that the buyer will not return to the UK and has given a bogus address to you on the V5C…. This was a concern for me, so I sighted the driver’s license to match the addresses. In the end, I figured that this risk is similar no matter who you sell to, you could be given a bogus address and the car used for whatever illegal activities…

Preparing Your Car for Sale:

Preparing your right-hand drive UK registered car for sale to a UK-based person in the EU follows the same steps as preparing for a domestic sale within the UK. Thoroughly clean and detail the car, address any mechanical issues, and gather all relevant documentation, including service history and MOT certificates.

Since the buyer intends to return to the UK, ensure that the car meets UK roadworthiness standards and emissions requirements to facilitate its registration upon return.

Determining the Selling Price:

The selling price of your right-hand drive UK registered car should be determined based on its market value, condition, mileage, and any additional features or upgrades it may have. Research similar listings and market trends to establish a fair and competitive price for your vehicle.

Given that the buyer intends to return to the UK, consider factors such as currency exchange rates and potential importation costs when negotiating the selling price.

Marketing Your Car:

Market your right-hand drive UK registered car to potential buyers through online platforms, classified ads, and social media channels popular among the UK expat community in the EU. Highlight the car’s UK registration and suitability for returning to the UK, emphasizing its familiarity and compatibility with British roads and driving regulations.

Navigating the Selling Process:

Arrange viewings and test drives with interested buyers, ensuring transparency about the car’s condition and history. Once a buyer is ready to proceed with the purchase, negotiate the terms of the sale and complete the necessary paperwork for the transfer of ownership.

Ensure that the buyer is aware of any additional steps or costs associated with importing the car back to the UK, such as vehicle inspection and registration fees.

Selling your right-hand drive UK registered car to a UK-based person in the EU who intends to return to the UK presents a unique opportunity to find a suitable buyer while facilitating their transition back home. By understanding the market dynamics, legal considerations, and practical steps involved in the selling process, you can successfully sell your car and help the buyer embark on their journey back to the UK. Happy selling!