Top 10 Sites to Buy Used Cars in Germany: Your Ultimate Guide for 2025
Are you in the market for a used car in Germany? Whether you're a local resident or an expat settling into life in this car-loving country, finding the right vehicle at the right price can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, Germany’s robust used car market offers plenty of options, and the internet makes it easier than ever to browse, compare, and buy. With so many websites out there, though, how do you know which ones are worth your time? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top 10 sites to buy used cars in Germany, based on their selection, usability, trustworthiness, and popularity as of February 24, 2025. I’ve spent hours researching and cross-checking these platforms to ensure you’re getting the best of the best. Plus, I’ll sprinkle in some tips to help you navigate the process like a pro. Ready to find your dream ride? Let’s dive in!
Why Buy a Used Car in Germany?
Germany is a global hub for automotive excellence, home to brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Audi. But even if you’re not splurging on a brand-new model, the used car market here is massive and well-regulated. Buying used can save you thousands of euros compared to purchasing new, especially since cars depreciate fastest in their first few years. Plus, Germany’s strict maintenance standards mean many second-hand vehicles are in excellent condition.
Whether you’re after a zippy compact for city driving or a sturdy SUV for exploring the Autobahn, online platforms make it simple to find what you need. But with so many choices, it’s key to stick to reputable sites. Below, I’ve ranked the top 10 based on user experience, inventory size, and features that matter most to buyers.
1. Mobile.de – Germany’s Largest Car Marketplace
Let’s kick things off with the heavyweight champion of German car sites: Mobile.de. If you’ve spent any time researching cars in Germany, you’ve likely stumbled across this platform. It’s the country’s biggest online vehicle marketplace, boasting over 1.2 million listings daily. That’s right—1.2 million! Whether you’re hunting for a used hatchback, a luxury sedan, or even a motorcycle, Mobile.de has it all.
What makes it stand out? The sheer variety. You’ll find everything from private sellers to dealerships offering used cars, new cars, and even “Jahreswagen” (vehicles less than a year old, often demo models). The site’s search filters are a dream—narrow down by make, model, price, mileage, and more. It’s available in multiple languages, including English, which is a lifesaver for expats. Plus, there’s a handy app for browsing on the go.
Pros: Massive inventory, detailed filters, multilingual support.
Cons: Can feel overwhelming for first-timers due to the volume of listings.
Best for: Anyone who wants endless options and doesn’t mind digging through listings.
2. AutoScout24.de – The European Car Giant
Next up is AutoScout24.de, a powerhouse not just in Germany but across Europe. With over 2 million vehicles listed (many from Germany), this site rivals Mobile.de in scope and popularity. It’s been around since 1998 and has earned a stellar reputation for its user-friendly interface and extensive database.
AutoScout24 shines with its intuitive design. You can filter by specifics like fuel type, transmission, or even environmental stickers (crucial for driving in Germany’s green zones). It also offers tools like car valuation and financing calculators, which help you budget smarter. The site supports 10 languages, making it accessible for non-German speakers. Oh, and if leasing interests you, AutoScout24 is one of the few platforms listing lease options.
Pros: Huge selection, easy navigation, extra tools like valuation.
Cons: Some listings lack English translations.
Best for: Buyers who value a polished experience and multilingual access.
3. eBay Kleinanzeigen – The One-Stop Classifieds Shop
If you’re open to buying from private sellers, eBay Kleinanzeigen is a goldmine. Think of it as Germany’s version of Craigslist, but cleaner and more focused. While it’s not exclusively for cars—you’ll find everything from furniture to apartments—it’s a popular spot for second-hand vehicles at competitive prices.
The appeal here is simplicity and affordability. Private sellers often list cars cheaper than dealerships, and you can negotiate directly. That said, you’ll need to be cautious—there’s no middleman to verify quality. The site is mostly in German, so a basic grasp of the language (or a translation tool) helps. Still, for budget-conscious buyers, it’s hard to beat.
Pros: Great deals, direct seller contact, no-frills platform.
Cons: German-only interface, higher risk with private sales.
Best for: Bargain hunters comfortable with DIY research.
4. 12Gebrauchtwagen.de – The Comparison King
Ever wish you could see listings from multiple sites in one place? Meet 12Gebrauchtwagen.de, a brilliant aggregator that pulls deals from Germany’s top car platforms, including Mobile.de and AutoScout24. With over 700,000 vehicles listed, it’s a time-saver for anyone who hates jumping between tabs.
This site is all about convenience. It compares prices across dealerships and platforms, helping you spot the best deal fast. Most listings come from commercial sellers, so you’re less likely to deal with sketchy private sales. The downside? It’s German-only, and the interface isn’t as sleek as some competitors. Still, for a quick overview of the market, it’s a gem.
Pros: Aggregates listings, focuses on dealerships, huge selection.
Cons: No English version, basic design.
Best for: Shoppers who want to compare prices effortlessly.
5. Heycar – Quality Over Quantity
For a more curated experience, check out Heycar. Launched in Germany by Volkswagen and Daimler, Heycar focuses on quality used cars—think vehicles under 8 years old with less than 150,000 km. Every car comes with a guarantee, which adds peace of mind that’s rare in the used car world.
Heycar’s stock hovers around 200,000 vehicles, smaller than Mobile.de or AutoScout24 but carefully vetted. The site’s filters are straightforward, and you can contact sellers directly. It also offers financing and warranty options, making it a solid pick for buyers who prioritize reliability over endless choice.
Pros: High-quality listings, guarantees included, sleek interface.
Cons: Smaller inventory, fewer budget options.
Best for: Buyers seeking well-maintained cars with extra assurance.
6. Sixt Car Sales – Dealership-Backed Dependability
If you’d rather buy from a trusted name, Sixt Car Sales is worth a look. Known for its car rental business, Sixt also sells its ex-rental fleet—typically young, low-mileage vehicles in great shape. These cars come with full service histories and a warranty, which is a big plus.
The site’s selection isn’t as vast as Mobile.de (think thousands, not millions), but the focus is on quality over quantity. You can buy online or visit one of their locations across Germany. Prices are transparent, and financing is available. It’s a hassle-free option for those who want a dealership experience without the haggling.
Pros: Reliable cars, warranties, easy online buying.
Cons: Limited selection, higher prices than private sales.
Best for: Buyers who value trust and convenience.
7. Webauto.de – The Dealership Network
Webauto.de has been connecting buyers with German dealerships since 1998. With over 300,000 vehicles from trusted sellers, it’s a solid mid-tier option. The site’s strength lies in its partnerships with dealerships, ensuring most cars come with service records and some level of assurance.
The interface is functional, if not flashy, with filters for price, mileage, and location. It’s German-only, which might deter non-speakers, but the focus on dealership stock makes it a safer bet than private-heavy platforms. It’s not as big as the top dogs, but it’s a reliable alternative.
Pros: Dealership focus, decent selection, straightforward site.
Cons: No English support, less variety than giants.
Best for: Buyers who prefer dealerships but want more options than Sixt.
8. Automobile.de – Simple and Effective
Owned by Mobile.de, Automobile.de is a streamlined alternative with a similar vibe. It lists around 1 million vehicles, pulling from the same massive pool as its parent site but with a slightly different layout. It’s less cluttered, which some users prefer.
The site offers standard filters and supports direct seller contact. It’s not as feature-rich as Mobile.de—no valuation tools or leasing options here—but it gets the job done. Like many German platforms, it’s primarily in German, though basic navigation is intuitive enough for non-speakers with a little effort.
Pros: Large inventory, simple design, tied to Mobile.de’s network.
Cons: Fewer features, German-only.
Best for: Fans of Mobile.de who want a less busy interface.
9. Kalaydo.de – The Local Classifieds Contender
Kalaydo.de is another classifieds site like eBay Kleinanzeigen, but with a regional twist. It’s popular in certain parts of Germany, especially for local deals. You’ll find used cars alongside other goods, often from private sellers looking to offload their vehicles quickly.
The car section isn’t as robust as dedicated platforms, but it’s a good spot for hidden gems. The site’s German-only, and the selection varies by area, so it’s not ideal for everyone. Still, if you’re near a Kalaydo hotspot (like North Rhine-Westphalia), it’s worth a peek.
Pros: Local deals, potential bargains, easy to use.
Cons: Smaller car focus, regional bias, no English.
Best for: Buyers in specific regions hunting for steals.
10. AUTO1.com – The Trade-In Twist
Rounding out the list is AUTO1.com, a platform aimed at dealers but accessible to savvy buyers too. It’s Europe’s largest wholesale used car marketplace, with over 30,000 inspected vehicles in stock. While it’s B2B-focused, individuals can sometimes snag deals through partnered sellers.
AUTO1’s cars are pre-inspected, and the buying process is fully digital—no physical auctions required. You’ll need to register and possibly work through a dealer, which adds a step, but the quality and transparency are top-notch. It’s not as beginner-friendly as others, but it’s a unique option.
Pros: Inspected cars, digital process, high volume.
Cons: Dealer-oriented, less direct for individuals.
Best for: Experienced buyers or those with dealer connections.
Tips for Buying a Used Car Online in Germany
Found a site you like? Great! Before you hit “buy,” here are some pointers to ensure a smooth purchase:
- Check the Maintenance Record: Look for “Checkheft gepflegt” (full service history). It’s a red flag if it’s missing.
- Verify the Emission Sticker: Most German cities require a green “Umweltplakette” for entry.
- Test Drive When Possible: Especially with private sellers—don’t skip this step.
- Research Prices: Use tools on AutoScout24 or Mobile.de to avoid overpaying.
- Know the Paperwork: You’ll need insurance and registration docs post-purchase—plan ahead.
Final Thoughts: Which Site Is Right for You?
Picking the best site depends on your needs. Want the biggest selection? Go for Mobile.de or AutoScout24.de. On a budget? Try eBay Kleinanzeigen. Prefer quality and guarantees? Heycar or Sixt Car Sales are your bets. For a one-stop comparison, 12Gebrauchtwagen.de can’t be beat.
Germany’s used car market is a treasure trove, and these platforms make it accessible no matter your budget or preference. So, fire up your browser, set your filters, and start shopping—you’re just a few clicks away from your next ride. Happy hunting!