Amy's Amazing Auto Service and Repair Blog

Important things you need before selling your car

by Derek Davidson

Letting go of one of your most priced possessions is no easy task. Apart from the emotional load of getting rid of a car you've had countless unforgettable moments with, there's also the legalities involved before giving away the car keys. So if you think it's time to let go of your vehicle, here are some of the major things you need to have and do for a smooth sale.

Get the paperwork ready

Don't wait till you get a buyer before you start thinking of the paperwork required. Gather all that you require way beforehand. Some of the most important paperwork include:

Maintenance records- These will show your buyer of the kind of services your vehicle has been through. If you don't have these records, then head to the mechanic that handled your car to get them.

A bill of sale- This documents simply states the terms and agreements particularly when a dispute occurs. It also includes the make and model of the car, its VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and purchase price.

Certificate of roadworthiness- The car roadworthy certificate is not a compulsory document, but it goes a long way in convincing your buyer that your vehicle is in good shape. It's given by a licenced vehicle tester and shows that the car is indeed roadworthy.

Release of liability- This document ensures that you don't get questioned when damages are incurred after the sale (before the new owner registers it).

Warranty- You should also get the warranty documents if present. This will also convince the buyer and facilitate a faster sale.

Prepare your car

You need to wash your car thoroughly, both the inside and outside. That's one of the surest ways to get the best deals for it. Give more focus on the carpets and seats because that's what attracts the buyers when they first look inside. Treat the leather is possible, and steam clean the interior to get rid of any odours that may be present.

After that, take a couple of photos and choose the best ones to display on your ad.

Have an ad

You shouldn't underestimate the power of a good ad. However, you need to be knowledgeable of your vehicle's details inside and out. Include details like the mileage, car condition, price and the VIN number. This is the number that the buyer can use to ask for a history report on it. You could also include any major modifications or upgrades that you've done on the car. These will help in making your car seem well taken care of, thereby sparking the interest of potential buyers.

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