Bought a New Car but Can't Seem to Sell the Old One? Try Our 8-Point Checklist!

1. Declutter Your Car

Remove all personal items from your car, including CDs, tissue boxes, and sweet wrappers. A clutter-free car allows potential buyers to envision themselves as the new owner. According to a study by the University of Michigan, a clean and organized car can increase its perceived value by up to 10% (source).

2. Clean Thoroughly

Polish all the glass, dust the dashboard, and vacuum the mats and upholstery. If your car has rubber mats, give them a blast with a pressure washer. For cars under two years old, consider repairing any bumps and scrapes. Fix any broken lights or mirrors to ensure your car looks well-maintained.

3. Tidy the Trunk

Empty out the trunk and vacuum it thoroughly. Clean any stains with a carpet cleaner. Ensure the spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated. Stow the jack and wheel brace correctly, and check that the toolkit is complete.

4. Eliminate Odors

If you're a smoker, empty and wash the ashtrays. Remove pet hair from the seats if you have pets. Use an air freshener to keep the car smelling fresh. Clean any spillages with a domestic carpet cleaner to remove any lingering odors.

5. Check the Engine

Ensure everything under the hood is tidy and that the engine runs quietly. Tighten any squeaky fan belts and make sure the bonnet stay is present and clips in place. Check the oil, screen washer water, and coolant levels, and top up as necessary. Avoid steam cleaning the engine, as it can create suspicion among buyers.

6. Inspect the Electrics

Make sure all the car's electrics are working properly. Replace any broken bulbs and ensure all lights function correctly. Faulty electrics can be a major turn-off for potential buyers.

7. Organize Documents

Gather all the car's documents in one place, including the owner's handbook, service book, V5 registration document, MOT certificate (if the car is over three years old), and any invoices for repair work. This shows potential buyers that you have taken good care of the car.

8. Know Its True Value

Don't accept the first offer that comes along. Research your car's true resale value using online resources like Parkers and AutoTrader. You can also check the latest blue book for accurate pricing. Look at similar cars in the classifieds to see what other owners are asking for their vehicles.

Interesting Stats

• According to a study by iSeeCars, the average time it takes to sell a used car is 34.6 days (source).
• Cars that are well-maintained and have a complete service history can sell for up to 20% more than those without (source).

By following this 8-point checklist, you'll increase your chances of selling your old car quickly and at a good price. Good luck!