How long have you been driving your car? Is it still roadworthy? If you are driving an old car, you should expect issues to come your way now and then. It is not surprising if you end up spending a big chunk of money paying for parts and services. Selling your car is one of the best solutions that will put an end to your headache. You do not have to worry because you have several options how to get rid of your old car the right way. Here are some helpful tips to get you started.
Do some research
Instead of going straight to a used car dealer, it would be best to do some research. You need to have an idea about the current value of your car. Car sellers usually price the vehicle based on the following criteria: brand, model, and condition. Once you have determined your car’s market value, you should increase this by ten to fifteen percent, so it will be easier for you to negotiate the sale with interested buyers.
Prepare all the necessary paperwork
Being a responsible owner means that you should have all the paperwork ready in case you find a buyer for your car. You will need the following.
- Official receipt
- Registration
- Proof of ownership
- Owner’s manual
- Service records
- Insurance
- Warranty (if applicable)
Remember that some buyers will ask for the complete car documents when they buy. If you are unsure, visit your local DMV for more inquires.
Make sure the vehicle is clean and presentable
Potential buyers are going to inspect the car inside and out. Bring it to the nearest carwash to make it look fresh. Apply a thin coat of wax to make the car look shiny and appealing. To get rid of any unpleasant smells, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda and leave it for twenty-four hours.
Visit your trusted mechanic
Even if you are selling an old vehicle, you need to make sure that it is in good running condition. Have a mechanic perform a routine check-up to test the oil, engine, brakes, suspension, and wheel alignment. Make any potential buyer feel that it is safe to drive a used car as long as it is well taken care of. In case the vehicle has existing problems, it is best to be honest with your buyer.
Let people know that you are selling your car
You can find more prospects if you decide to advertise it via the Internet. You can take advantage of social media because most people love spending their time online. Also, a lot of them do research using the Internet before making a significant purchase.
Lastly, if you think that your car no longer has a market value, you can still sell it at your local junk shop so they can recycle it into something more worthwhile. Companies like Evergreen Junk Removal Service can help you haul your old vehicle from your garage without having to worry about anything.