Craigslist Cars & Trucks for Sale by Owner in California
Shopping for a used car in California? Craigslist has separate sites for each region, which makes it tedious to compare listings. Pick a city below or browse the live California listings to find cars and trucks sold by private owners.
Craigslist cars by city in California
Latest cars for sale in California
Live results from Craigslist listings nationwide. Click a listing to open the original ad.
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Buying a used car from a private seller in California
Title transfers in California are handled by the California DMV. Before you pay, check that the name on the title matches the seller's ID, that there is no lien listed, and that the VIN on the title matches the VIN on the dashboard and door jamb. Always get a written bill of sale with the date, price, VIN and both signatures.
In California, the seller is generally responsible for providing a valid smog certificate when selling most gasoline vehicles more than four model years old — ask for it before you pay. Coastal cars can have rust; inland cars suffer sun damage.
Rules and fees change; confirm current requirements with the California DMV before you buy.
Popular makes in California
- Used Ford
- Used Chevrolet
- Used Toyota
- Used Honda
- Used Nissan
- Used Jeep
- Used Dodge
- Used GMC
- Used Subaru
- Used Hyundai
- Used Kia
- Used BMW
Frequently asked questions
How do I transfer a car title in California?
In California, title transfers are handled by the California DMV. The seller signs the title over to you, and you title and register the vehicle in your name. Bring the signed title, a bill of sale, your ID and proof of insurance.
How can I search all Craigslist cars in California at once?
Use CraigsCars: it searches every Craigslist site at once, so you do not need to visit each California city page separately.