Sell My Junk Car for Cash in Bakersfield, CA with CarBidNow
In the heart of California, Bakersfield stands out not just as a hub for agriculture and energy but also as a burgeoning city with a rapidly growing population and a vibrant economic scene. As of the 2020 Census, Bakersfield boasts a population of 403,455, ranking it as the 47th-most populous city in the United States and the 9th in California. With a significant percentage of its population between the ages of 18 and 34 and an average household income of $88,190, Bakersfield emerges as a dynamic locale for both living and doing business.
However, the prosperity and growth in Bakersfield come with their own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to selling vehicles. For residents looking to sell their cars, traditional methods can be fraught with inconvenience, from the hassle of negotiating with local dealerships known for undervaluing cars to the complexity of private sales that often require endless meetings and paperwork.
Understanding the Bakersfield Market
Bakersfield’s unique demographic and economic characteristics shape its automotive market. The city’s youthful population and ongoing growth have created a robust demand for cars, making it an ideal time to sell—but finding the right buyer is often the biggest hurdle. In a city where business and office space remain affordable, and the workforce continues to expand, many are looking for quick and efficient ways to purchase vehicles, pushing sellers to seek out smarter, hassle-free selling options.
The city also hosts numerous cultural and recreational events, from drag racing at the Auto Club Famoso Raceway to the Scottish Games and various festivals, which can increase the seasonal demand for vehicles. This fluctuating market demand requires a selling approach that matches buyers efficiently and quickly with the cars they need.
The CarBidNow Advantage
For Bakersfield residents, CarBidNow offers a smooth and convenient solution to these challenges. By leveraging a proprietary algorithm that accurately assesses the value of cars based on their condition, age, and market demand, CarBidNow ensures that sellers receive offers that are often more competitive than those from local dealerships or other online platforms. This is particularly advantageous in a city like Bakersfield, where the vibrant economy and diverse population can make car values fluctuate more than in more static markets.
Moreover, CarBidNow caters to the entire spectrum of car sellers, whether your vehicle is the latest model in perfect condition or an older car that’s seen better days. Even for those with non-operable vehicles, CarBidNow provides a valuable service by offering to buy cars that are typically hard to sell, ensuring that every car owner in Bakersfield has the opportunity to receive a fair cash offer.
Streamlined Services Tailored for Bakersfield
Recognizing the logistical challenges in a sprawling city like Bakersfield, CarBidNow also simplifies the selling process by arranging towing services, often within 1–3 days of sale closure. This quick turnaround is essential in a busy city. It is especially beneficial for sellers who need to free up space quickly or who cannot drive their non-operable vehicles to a selling point.
Moreover, Bakersfield’s position as a significant hub for agriculture and energy production—sectors that often require quick asset liquidation for reinvestment—makes CarBidNow’s efficient selling process align perfectly with the city’s business rhythms. The company’s ability to offer instant cash offers and handle the towing and paperwork reduces the time and effort sellers would otherwise invest in the selling process.
Why Bakersfield Chooses CarBidNow
Bakersfield’s growing, dynamic nature demands a car-selling service that is equally dynamic and efficient. CarBidNow meets this need by providing Bakersfield residents with a reliable, quick, and competitively priced platform to sell their vehicles online. Whether you are a young professional looking to upgrade your car or a business needing to liquidate assets, CarBidNow provides an unmatched service that aligns with the pulse of Bakersfield—fast, efficient, and always forward-thinking.
Important Steps in Selling Your Car Online for Cash in Bakersfield, CA
Does and Don’t about Titles
- DON’T scribble or cross out to correct an error.
- DON’T write the incorrect mileage.
- DON’T write the incorrect name, if your vehicle is registered as John J. Smith sign the title as it appears on your registration.
- DO use blue or black ink when filling out the title.
- DO write legibly and as clear as possible .
Common Title mistakes when Selling Your Car in Bakersfield, CA
- Filling in the wrong area on a title
- Incorrect mileage written on the title
- Losing a title
Important Forms for Selling Your Car in Bakersfield, CA
Link for applying for a duplicate in Bakersfield, CA: REG 227, Application for Replacement or transfer of title
Power of attorney: Power of Attorney (REG 260) (ca.gov)
Bakersfield, CA DVM link locations: DMV Service Locations and Offices – Bakersfield, CA DMV
Smog vehicle emissions statement form: Smog vehicle emissions statement form- REG 139, Bakersfield, CA statement of fact form-REG 256, Statement of Facts (ca.gov)
Bakersfield, CA statement of fact form: Vehicle Emission System Statement (Smog) (ca.gov)
Statement to record ownership: Statement to records ownership/statement of error or erasure (REG 101) (ca.gov)
Statement of fact Form: Statement to records ownership/statement of error or erasure (REG 101) (ca.gov)
Lien Satisfied Form: REG 166, Lien Satisfied/Title Holder Release (ca.gov)
Notice of transfer form: REG 138, Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (ca.gov)
Affidavit of transfer form: REG 5 Affidavit for transfer without probate Bakersfield, CA titled vehicle or vessels only
Bill of sale form: REG 135, Bill of Sale (ca.gov)
Additional Information on Selling Your Car for Cash in Bakersfield, CA
- Registration info: You are required to submit a notice of transfer and release liability to the DMV within 10 days of selling the vehicle. This notifies the DMV that ownership has changed and protects you from liability for parking violations, traffic violations and civil litigation involving the vehicle.
- When to Cancel Insurance: Once the vehicle is picked up you can cancel the coverage because ownership has transferred at that point.
- Cleaning out vehicle: Before we pick up the vehicle remember to remove all personal items such as personal belongings, license plates, and park passes.
- Removing plates: Typically, No. Most vehicles have standard issued plates that will remain with the car when ownership is transferred. If the vehicle has a special interest or personalized license plate those would belong to the seller.
- Emissions: Most cars require a certificate from a smog testing station. When ownership is transferred of a gas powered vehicle that is 4 or less years old, a smog certification isn’t required, but there is a smog transfer fee collected from the new owner. When a vehicle is more than 4 years old or diesel powered vehicle that is 1998 year model or newer and has a GVW of 14,0000 pounds or less is sold, the seller must obtain a smog certification for the transfer unless biennial smog certification was obtained within the last 90 days. Most popular types of vehicles do not need to be smog tested include:
- 1975 and older year-model and gas-powered.
- 1997 and older year-model and diesel-powered.
- Electric-powered vehicles
- Natural-gas powered vehicles
- Motorcycles
- Vehicles which are less than four years old
- Sales Tax: Sales tax is due on original registration/transfer of vehicles purchased from someone other than a dealer, when selling a vehicle sales tax isn’t collected so this isn’t a fee a seller will be paying.
- Impoundments in Bakersfield
We can’t pick up from impound yards, but here’s how to get your car out of the impound so you can sell it to us in Bakersfield.
If you have a vehicle in the Bakersfield impound as the vehicle owner you have the right to request a hearing. You may request this either before or after you pay for storage. The hearing purpose is to determine if there was probable cause to impound the vehicle. See the link below to find out more: Abandoned Vehicle and Impounded Vehicle Questions – LAPD Online
- Bakersfield county DMV
Need to go to the DMV? The local Bakersfield DMV can assist with title transfers, new registration and more. Bakersfield – California DMV
- AVERAGE COST OF PARKING TICKET
The average cost of a parking ticket in Bakersfield is $40 and ranges from $35-65. See below where you can pay for your parking tickets!
Pay a Citation – LADOT (ladotparking.org)
- ONCE PLATE IS CHANGED, PARKING TICKETS GO AWAY
When selling a car in California, the plate will stay with the car even after you sell it. It’s important to remember to file a notice of transfer no more than 10 days after you sell the car so you won’t be liable for any parking tickets, traffic violations or civil litigation after the date of your vehicle has been sold. If you had any of those before the sale of your vehicle they will need to be paid before the sale can be completed to avoid any potential issues and legal troubles
Everything You Need to Know About Transferring Your Title in Bakersfield, CA
Below are the important items you need to know about preparing your title for transfer in Bakersfield, CA.
How to Prepare Your Title in Bakersfield, CA
How to get a Duplicate in Bakersfield, CA
How to Obtain a Lien Release in Bakersfield, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a car be parked on a residential street in Bakersfield, CA?
In Bakersfield, California, a car can be parked on a residential street for a maximum of 72 hours as per California Vehicle Code 22651(k). This statewide rule prevents vehicles from remaining in one spot on any city street for longer than three days. This regulation helps manage street parking availability and maintain orderly streets. Residents and visitors are encouraged to move their vehicles periodically to comply with this rule and avoid potential penalties.
What is a 30-day vehicle hold in California?
In California, a vehicle may be subjected to a 30-day impound hold under Vehicle Code Sections 14602.6 and 14602.7. This action is typically enforced when a vehicle is operated by someone who does not have a valid driver’s license or whose license has been suspended or revoked. The law aims to enhance road safety by temporarily removing the privilege to drive from individuals who do not comply with driver licensing laws, reducing the risk of accidents involving unlicensed drivers.
What is considered a utility vehicle in California?
In California, a utility vehicle is defined as an “Off-Road Utility Vehicle,” which includes vehicles equipped to handle rough terrain. These vehicles must have four or more wheels and provide seating (either bench or bucket type) for two or more occupants. They are also characterized by a steering wheel for navigation control. Typically, utility vehicles are designed for use in varied and challenging environments and are not primarily intended for highway use. This classification includes various types of recreational and work vehicles that can traverse different terrains.
What should I know about tolls in California?
California utilizes FasTrak, an electronic tolling system, for paying tolls on all tolled bridges, express lanes, and roads. It’s a convenient method, often required for toll payment, allowing for seamless travel across the state’s toll facilities. Drivers should consider obtaining a FasTrak transponder from the agency that operates the facility they most frequently use, as this will cover tolls statewide. Additionally, toll rates vary depending on vehicle type and the specific toll road or bridge used.
What do I need to do if I’ve lost my vehicle registration card?
If you’ve lost your vehicle registration card, you can request a duplicate from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. You will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and license plate number and pay a fee for the duplicate registration card.
What are the common parking colors and their meanings in California?
In California, colored curbs are used to indicate parking rules: Red curbs mean no stopping, standing, or parking at any time. Blue zones are reserved for handicapped parking. Yellow curbs indicate zones for loading and unloading passengers or freight. White curbs denote short-term passenger loading, and the driver must stay with the vehicle. Green curbs allow parking for a limited time, which is usually indicated on nearby signs or directly on the curb.
Can I renew my vehicle registration online in Bakersfield?
Yes, you can renew your vehicle registration online in Bakersfield through the California DMV website. You’ll need a valid credit or debit card or a checking account, along with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and proof of insurance if required. Make sure your address is current on the DMV records before proceeding. Online renewal is available unless your situation requires additional documentation, such as a smog certificate or proof of insurance that hasn’t been electronically reported to the DMV.
How do I handle a lost or damaged California Certificate of Ownership?
If your California Certificate of Ownership (Title) is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a replacement by submitting Form REG 227 (Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title). This form can be submitted to the DMV either by mail or in person. Ensure all the required sections are completed and include the appropriate fee for processing the duplicate title.
What should I do if my vehicle fails smog certification?
If your vehicle fails its smog certification in California, you have a few options to handle the situation. First, address any emissions-related issues identified during the test. Repairs must be carried out by a licensed repair station. After the necessary repairs, the vehicle needs to be retested. If cost is a concern, check if your vehicle’s emissions components are still under warranty, as they might cover some expenses. Additionally, California’s Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) may offer financial assistance for repairs or retirement of older, polluting vehicles for qualifying individuals. For detailed procedures and potential financial assistance, refer to the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) and local smog check stations.
What do I need to do if I’m moving out of state but my vehicle will remain registered in California?
If you’re moving out of state but your vehicle will remain registered in California, you must update your address with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 10 days of your move. This can be done online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Updating your address ensures that all correspondence, including renewal notices and any legal notifications, is sent to your new location. Keeping the vehicle registration in California requires adherence to state regulations, including smog certification if applicable.
What are the consequences of not paying parking citations in Bakersfield?
Not paying parking citations in Bakersfield can lead to several consequences. Unpaid tickets can result in additional late fees and penalties, increasing the original fine amount. If citations remain unpaid, it could lead to a hold on the renewal of your vehicle registration, making it illegal to drive the vehicle without proper registration. In severe cases, unpaid citations can result in the vehicle being towed or booted. It is important to address parking tickets promptly to avoid these escalated penalties and additional costs.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in a residential area in California?
In California, it is generally illegal to sleep in your car on neighborhood streets. Local ordinances may have specific rules regarding sleeping in vehicles on city streets, with certain exceptions possibly in place depending on the area. Before deciding to sleep in your car on any street, it is crucial to check for any street signs that might indicate restrictions or permissions relating to vehicle habitation. Compliance with these signs and local laws is essential to avoid legal issues. Always ensure that you are informed about the specific regulations in the area where you plan to stay overnight.
