Dealer or private seller?

The differences between buying a car from a Swiss dealer and from a private seller: VAT, warranty, condition and paperwork.

Updated:

Both can be a good choice. The differences matter more when you are buying from abroad.

Buying from a dealer

  • VAT-registered dealers can sell for export without Swiss VAT, or refund it
  • The car is often prepared and freshly inspected
  • Sometimes a warranty, though a Swiss garage warranty is hard to use from abroad
  • Prices tend to be higher

Buying from a private seller

  • No VAT charged
  • Often lower prices and a clear history from one owner
  • Sold as seen, with very limited legal recourse
  • The seller may not have time for paperwork or answering questions

Our advice

Whichever you choose, have the car inspected before buying. With private sellers, it is essential.

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