Selling a car in the UK can feel like navigating a maze of options, each promising convenience, speed, or the best price. Two of the most prominent players in the online car-buying market are We Buy Any Car and Exchange My Car. Both platforms aim to simplify the car-selling process, but they take distinctly different approaches. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of these services, exploring their processes, costs, convenience, and customer experiences to help you decide which is the better choice for selling your car in 2025.
Overview of WeBuyAnyCar
WeBuyAnyCar, launched in 2006, was the UK’s first online car-buying service and has since become a household name. With over 500 physical branches across the UK, it’s built a reputation for speed and simplicity. The process starts with an online valuation tool where you input your car’s registration number, mileage, and condition details. This generates an instant valuation, valid for seven days, based on market data and the car’s specifics. If you accept the valuation, you book an appointment at a nearby branch, where a representative inspects your vehicle and provides a final offer. If agreed, you leave your car at the branch, and payment is processed, typically within four working days, though faster payment options are available for a fee.
WeBuyAnyCar’s strength lies in its accessibility and brand recognition. It buys a wide range of vehicles, including non-runners, cars on finance, and even those previously sold as salvage. However, the service comes with caveats. The initial online valuation could be higher than the final offer, as inspections may reveal issues like scratches or missing service history, leading to price reductions. Additionally, WeBuyAnyCar charges transaction fees, ranging from £49.99 for cars valued between £100 and £3,999, up to £124.99 for vehicles worth £20,000 or more. If you want faster payment, you’ll face additional fees: £24.75 for next-day payment or £29.75 for immediate payment within hours.
Customer reviews paint a mixed picture. With a Trustpilot rating of 4.7 based on over 284,000 reviews, many praise the service’s speed and ease. However, some users report frustration with lower-than-expected final offers and aggressive price negotiations during inspections. For example, one reviewer noted their offer was reduced by £600 due to minor cosmetic issues, while another sold their car for £8,300 through a competitor after WeBuyAnyCar offered £7,600.
Overview of Exchange My Car
Exchange My Car, launched in 2021, takes a different approach as a comparison platform rather than a direct buyer. Instead of purchasing cars itself, it connects sellers with a network of vetted car-buying companies across the UK (except Northern Ireland). You start by entering your car’s details online, and within seconds, the platform generates multiple offers from its partner buyers. These buyers specialise in various vehicle types, including electric cars, non-runners, high-performance vehicles, and those with mechanical issues. Once you choose the best offer, the buyer arranges free home collection, settles any outstanding finance, and processes instant payment via bank transfer—all at no cost to the seller.
The key selling point of Exchange My Car is its fee-free model. Unlike WeBuyAnyCar, it charges no administrative or early-payment fees, and its partnered buyers cover the entire process, from valuation to collection, at no extra cost. This transparency appeals to sellers looking to maximise their payout. Exchange My Car also emphasizes convenience, as you don’t need to drive to a drop-off point—buyers come to you, whether at home or work. The platform’s Trustpilot rating of 4.9, based on 122 reviews, reflects high customer satisfaction, with users praising the ease of getting competitive offers and the professionalism of partnered buyers. One reviewer highlighted selling their car within 24 hours, while another appreciated the lack of last-minute price haggling.
Comparing the Two Platforms
1. Valuation Process
- WeBuyAnyCar: Offers a single valuation based on your car’s details and market data. While quick, some previous customer reviews state that the initial quote can be adjusted downward after an in-person inspection, if issues like scratches or missing documentation are found. Sellers must be proactive in disclosing all faults to avoid surprises.
- Exchange My Car: Provides multiple offers from various buyers, with the aim of increasing the likelihood of a competitive price. The platform’s algorithm matches your car with buyers who specialise in its type or condition, potentially yielding better offers. Since offers are based on pre-confirmed vehicle details, final adjustments are uncommon if you’ve described the car accurately.
2. Convenience
- WeBuyAnyCar: Requires you to drive to one of its 500+ branches, which may be inconvenient depending on your location. You’ll also need to arrange your own transport home after dropping off the car. For non-runners, you must organise transport to the branch.
- Exchange My Car: Offers free home collection nationwide (except Northern Ireland), eliminating the need to travel. This is a significant advantage for busy sellers or those with non-running vehicles, as the buyer handles logistics.
3. Fees
- WeBuyAnyCar: Charges transaction fees based on the car’s value, starting at £49.99 and rising to £124.99 for higher-valued vehicles. Additional fees apply for faster payments, which can erode your final payout.
- Exchange My Car: Completely fee-free, with no charges for valuations, collections, or payments. This makes it a more cost-effective option, especially for higher-value cars where WeBuyAnyCar’s fees are steepest.
4. Payment Speed
- WeBuyAnyCar: Standard payment takes four working days, with faster options available for £24.75 (next-day) or £29.75 (same-day). No fees apply for cars valued under £500.
- Exchange My Car: Offers instant bank transfers as standard, processed before the buyer takes your car, at no additional cost. This ensures you get paid quickly without extra charges.
5. Vehicle Types
- WeBuyAnyCar: Buys a broad range of vehicles, including non-runners, salvage cars, and those on finance. However, offers for specialised or high-value cars may be less competitive due to its one-size-fits-all approach.
- Exchange My Car: Partners with specialist buyers for electric, hybrid, high-performance, and problem vehicles, potentially securing better offers for niche cars.
6. Customer Experience
- WeBuyAnyCar: Its long track record and extensive branch network make it a trusted choice, but some customers report feeling pressured during inspections, with offers reduced for minor issues. The service’s efficiency is a plus, but fees and price adjustments can sour the experience.
- Exchange My Car: Scores highly for transparency and ease, with customers appreciating the ability to compare offers and avoid haggling. The platform’s focus on vetted buyers ensures a professional process, though its newer status means a smaller review base.
Which Should You Choose?
If speed and familiarity are your priorities, WeBuyAnyCar’s widespread presence and straightforward process make it a reliable choice, especially if you’re near a branch and don’t mind potential fees. However, for sellers seeking a competitive price with minimal hassle, Exchange My Car stands out. Its comparison model delivers multiple competitive offers, free home collection, and instant payments without fees, making it ideal for those who want convenience and value. Customer reviews suggest Exchange My Car often secures high offers, particularly for specialised vehicles, and its fee-free approach ensures you keep more of the sale price.
Before deciding, consider getting quotes from both platforms to compare offers directly. Ensure you provide accurate details about your car’s condition to avoid surprises. If you value convenience and are selling a niche vehicle, Exchange My Car’s tailored approach and cost-free service make it a compelling option. For a quick, same-day sale and proximity to a branch, WeBuyAnyCar remains a solid option despite its fees.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities—whether it’s speed, price, or ease. By weighing these factors and comparing offers, you can drive away (or get picked up) with confidence and cash in hand.
