If you’re thinking about selling a car in Hawaii, timing is everything. While many people focus on mileage, condition, and market demand, the seasons also play a big role in getting the best price for your vehicle. In Hawaiʻi, the Wet Season—typically running from November through March—can make a noticeable difference in how quickly and profitably you sell your car. The Impact of the Wet Season … [Read more...]
Oahu Parking Hacks: Save Time, Avoid Tickets, and Reduce Stress
If you live on Oahu — or are just visiting — you already know that parking can be one of the island’s biggest daily challenges. From Honolulu to Kapolei, finding a safe and convenient spot often feels like luck more than strategy. At Carmark Hawaii, we regularly hear stories from locals who spend more time circling for parking than actually driving! The good news? With a few smart parking hacks, … [Read more...]
Selling a Car in Hawaii with an Outstanding Loan: Is It Possible?
If you’re living in Hawaii and considering selling your car, you might be wondering: Can I sell my vehicle if I still owe money on it? The answer is yes, but the process is slightly more complex compared to selling a car you fully own. With Hawaii’s county-specific vehicle registration and title requirements, it’s important to know the right steps before listing your car. Understanding Your … [Read more...]
Why Cars Rust Faster in Hawai‘i (and What You Can Actually Do About It)
Living in paradise comes with a price—especially for your car. If you’ve owned a vehicle on Oʻahu (or anywhere in Hawai‘i) for more than a few years, you’ve probably noticed something strange: rust shows up faster here than it would in most mainland states. That’s not your imagination—and it can seriously affect your car’s appearance, safety, and resale value. Here’s why it happens—and what you … [Read more...]
Why Holding Onto an Unused Car in Hawai‘i Could Cost You—And Put You at Risk for Scams
We all know someone who has a car just sitting in the driveway. Maybe it’s an older vehicle that needs a little work, or maybe it’s a car you’ve been “meaning to sell” for months. It’s easy to put it off. But here on Oʻahu, letting a car sit unused can come with hidden costs—and even risks you may not expect. The Risk of Scams (and Safety) When You Finally Try to Sell Once you decide to sell your … [Read more...]
Hawaii DMV Faces Title Paper Shortage & Backlog
What’s happening Honolulu’s DMV is currently struggling with a backlog of several thousand title and registration requests—as of early July, there were around 6,200 to 8,000 pending applications, marking a 40% increase from earlier in the year. What’s causing it? Specialty title paper shortage: The DMV uses security-grade stock (watermarked, fiber-embedded) to produce official vehicle titles … [Read more...]
Smart Car Selling Options for Military Members: What You Need to Know Before Your Next PCS
As a member of the U.S. military, frequent relocations and Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders are simply part of life. While moving comes with many responsibilities, one major challenge military personnel often face is how to sell their used car quickly and hassle-free — especially in places like Hawaii, where timing and logistics matter. If you're preparing for your next PCS and wondering, … [Read more...]
How to Gather Paperwork for Selling Your Car in Hawaii
Selling your car can be a smooth and rewarding process—especially if you’re well-prepared with the right paperwork. Having everything in order not only protects you legally but also helps you complete the transaction faster, whether you’re selling privately or to a professional buyer like CarMark Hawaii. We buy vehicles with a clear title or with an active loan, and we offer instant cash offers … [Read more...]
How to Protect Yourself from Potential Risks When Selling Your Car
Selling your vehicle might be a wise financial decision, particularly if you are upgrading or cutting costs. However, it also opens the door to potential risks if you're not careful. From scams and fraud to safety concerns, the process involves several steps where things could go wrong. Knowing how to protect yourself while selling your vehicle is essential to ensure a smooth and secure … [Read more...]
What Affects the Resale Value of Your Car in Hawaii?
If you're planning to sell your vehicle in Hawaii, understanding what influences its resale value can help you get the best return. Whether you're upgrading to a newer model or downsizing for island living, several key factors impact how much your old car is worth when it's time to sell. Vehicle Condition The overall condition of your car is one of the most important factors. Cars that are … [Read more...]