Repairing Your Car

Three Things You Need To Do Before Putting Your Car Up For Sale

If you've recently decided the time has come to purchase a new vehicle, you're probably feeling excited and perhaps a bit sad at the same time. You may be excited because it's been a long time since you've had a new car, and maybe your current vehicle isn't as attractive or as reliable as it was in the past. However, you may also be experiencing a pang of sadness because the car you're driving now has been part of some of life's most important moments — maybe it's what you drove off to college, or maybe it's the car you bought to reward yourself after getting a sought-after job. Whatever the reason, you definitely want your current car to be in good hands after you pass it along — it's not ready for the junkyard yet. You probably also want to get the best possible price. Here's what you need to do to ensure that it gets snapped up by someone willing to pay a good price.

Have Basic Repair Work Done

Focus on visible issues such as broken taillights, small dents and dings, and burned-out bulbs. If the "check engine" light on the dash keeps coming on, ask your mechanic to investigate the situation before placing your vehicle on the market. Make sure that the hubcaps are all neat and clean and that they all match. 

Consider Small Cosmetic Upgrades 

Small, inexpensive upgrades make any car look more appealing to prospective buyers — and they also give the car a cared-for look. Small cosmetic upgrades to consider include new steering wheel covers, new floor mat, new seat coverings, interior dome lighting fixtures, new trunk liners, and new rearview mirrors. These are all items you can purchase from an auto supply retailer and can easily put in place yourself. 

Have the Car Professionally Detailed 

Having the vehicle professionally detailed will provide the extra layer of polish necessary to attract serious buyers. Auto detailing is basically a deep cleaning of both the exterior and exterior of the car designed to make the car look as good as possible. Interior detailing may involve removing upholstery stains, polishing non-porous surfaces, and thorough vacuuming using specialized equipment. Exterior detailing includes thoroughly cleaning and polishing all parts of the vehicle's exterior, including the chrome trim, tires, wheels, hood ornaments, and any other visible exterior components.  

Above all, have your paperwork for the vehicle in perfect order to facilitate a quick, seamless sale. 


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