But how can you make sure your vehicle sells for its best possible price? Here are a few ways you can make sure you’re selling your vehicle for the best value.
1. Repair any dents and dings
The four main causes of auto body damage include fender benders, negligence, weather, and high-speed collisions. Unfortunately, whether it was caused by hail or a rear-end collision, a dent in your vehicle can quickly bring down the value of your car.
This isn’t just because of aesthetics, either. Dents and dings can increase your vehicle’s risk of developing rust. That said, be sure to take your car into the shop to have these dents repaired before putting your car on the market.
2. Replace any damaged parts
Your car’s exterior isn’t the only thing that sustains damage over time. Take a look at your car’s seats and floors. Do they need more than a deep cleaning?
Fortunately, replacing damaged parts inside your vehicle isn’t too difficult. Polyurethane, which is a material made from two liquid components mixed during the Reaction Injection Molding (RIM) process, is used throughout your car in places like the foam in your seats, your bumper, and spoiler.
Just be sure that once you make the necessary repairs you don’t compromise those repairs by using your vehicle. Public transit is still a popular method of transportation; it was used 9.9 billion times in 2018 alone. If you can, use public transit to minimize the risk of undoing the repairs you’ve made, but if you need to use your car be sure to drive with caution and vacuum the interior regularly.
3. Figure out the value of your vehicle
Once you figure out the estimated value of your vehicle, you can make adjustments as necessary. The make, model, and mileage of your vehicle will each have an impact on your car’s estimated value.
You can use sources like Kelly Blue Book’s Get Your Blue Book Value page. Your car’s condition will also impact the value of your vehicle. If you’ve taken care of your car or if you’ve made the repairs listed above, your car’s condition may improve its overall value.
However, it’s important that you be as honest as possible when describing the condition of your vehicle. Buyers won’t be interested in a car that’s both overpriced and in bad condition. That said, even if you do need to sell your car, businesses like car buyers will pay for it even if it is in bad shape.
4. Remember to get the word out
If you put your vehicle out on the corner of your yard with a “for sale” sign, the only people who will see it are those who drive by your street. To maximize how many buyers you can reach, take good photos of your vehicle and post your car for sale online. About nine out of every 10 American adults use the Internet.
Consider using online marketplaces like Facebook, Craigslist, AutoTrader, Cars.com, and more. If you’re taking your vehicle to a dealership, be sure to do your research and check reviews from others who have traded in their vehicles in the past to make sure you’re getting a good deal.
Attention to detail is key when you’re getting your vehicle ready for sale. By following the tips above, you can be sure that you’re pricing your vehicle correctly and that your car will sell for the best possible price.
