What's Your Car Worth

One of the first things to do is find out what your car is worth, based on its age, mileage and condition. Value your car now free of charge

Selling Methods

The options are pretty simple and basically fall into three categories. If you plan to buy from a dealer, chances are you will probably end up trading in your old car, simply because it is the most convenient way of getting rid of the old banger. But if you're not happy with the price offered, then perhaps a private sale is the best way. Obviously it involves more work on your part and at least a couple of weekends waiting for the phone to ring, but it can mean a much better price.

The third option is to put the car into one of the many public auctions on consignment but, as many of the buyers are either dealers or private punters looking for a bargain, you're not likely to get much more than by trading directly with a dealer.

Looking Good

You don't see cleaners slaving away daily on car lots for their health. Dealers know there is nothing like a shiny surface, jet-black tyres and a freshly detailed interior to hide the shortcomings of a used car. And the same holds true if you are selling privately.

Making sure the car is clean is the first priority, and while a basic wash will do the job, there is nothing like attention to detail. Plenty of car detailers will do an exterior wash and polish, interior valet and engine steam-clean by hand to get the car looking like new, but be prepared to pay at least $100 for a full service.

A wax and polish can make a startling difference to the paintwork but unless you are prepared to put in long hours and have access to power tools for final buffing, it is often worth having it done professionally as the process will mask minor scratches and dents.

The same goes for the interior, as the application of good-quality plastic and vinyl treatments can return the car to near-showroom condition, while an engine steam-clean removes not only years of built-up grime but can also remove the evidence of minor fluid leakages. Ways to Wash

Advertising

When it comes to advertising, the best places are the newspaper classifieds and bigger motoring websites, while a clear sign in the windows of your car can't hurt either.

In your ad, make sure that you don't lie about the cars condition but do include all the plus points such as 1 owner, always garaged etc. Buyers love photos so try to include as many as you can.

The great thing about advertising on the web is that you can include lots of pictures of your car. You can place an ad on drive.com.au until your car is sold. You can also advertise in The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Find out more

Getting an Offer

Always get the contact details of anyone that is coming to see your car. Once they are there, check that they are insured to drive it and indeed that they have a drivers license before they take it for a test drive. Never let anyone drive your car without you in it.

Be prepared to negotiate when you do start talking dollars and always price your car a bit higher than the lowest figure you are prepared to accept so that there is room for this. We all love to feel like we have got a bargain when buying something!

Even once you have takena deposit, do not hand over the car or paperwork until the car has been fully paid for. For high value cars you may prefer to receive a bank cheque.

The content of this guide is courtesy of :
The Sydney Morning Herald, The Sun Herald, The Age, The Financial Review