Putting your car on the market can seem daunting. After all, there are many different aspects of selling that require preparation. Luckily, we’ve put together a quick guide of tips and tricks for getting your car ready for sale to help you through the process.
Clean Your Car Inside and Out
The first thing you need to do to prep your car for sale is thoroughly clean it inside and out. A careful handwash with a soft shimmy rag and a fresh coat of wax can make a world of difference. You’ll want to ensure that the inside is spotless as well. A lot goes into a complete detail job, including shampooing, vacuuming, window cleaning, and polishing. And while doing these things yourself is possible, it’s much easier to hire a professional. They can clean the grimy spaces you’re more likely to miss.
Fix Small Issues
When you’re attempting to sell or trade your car, you want to do everything you can to show the dealership that your vehicle is valuable and well-maintained. So, while you should probably leave things like engine or transmission repairs to the pros, it won’t hurt to fix small issues yourself. For instance, if you notice that your taillights need replacing or you’re low on wiper fluid, go ahead and take care of those things. It will make prepping your vehicle for a buyer much easier and more cost-effective.
Gather the Proper Documents
One of the many tips and tricks for getting your car ready for sale is to gather all of the documents you’ll need to have a smooth selling process. Some of these documents will include the car’s registration and service records. The latter will provide proof of regularly scheduled maintenance, which will help you retain more resale value for your vehicle. Additionally, you’ll want to collect any other extras, like owner’s manuals, DVDs, and spare keys.
Do an Inspection and Get a Rough Value Estimate
Finally, it’s also wise to inspect your car for blemishes and minor issues so that you can get a clear idea of how much resale value your vehicle will have once you sell it. Examine your vehicle for scratches, dents, or dings, and if you can buff them out, do so. After that, you’ll want to take it on a test drive, paying close attention to any noises or bumps you notice while on the road. Evaluating these things will help you land on a fair price and prepare you for negotiations with the dealership.
So, when it’s time to start prepping your vehicle for a sale or trade-in, we hope you consider some of our favorite tips and tricks for ensuring your car is ready to return to the market.
