Used Cars

Getting your used car ready for sale: pt 2 - mechanics

Last month we looked at how getting the marigolds on and using some elbow grease can help you getter a better price when selling a used car.

But what about the guts of the vehicle? Let's face it – everyone loves to look under the bonnet and pretend they know something when buying a car – even if they're clueless!

The first thing to point out is that a lot of minor mechanical issues can be sorted out yourself – with a little car knowledge. However, most of the following issues won't cost too much if you do need to use a mechanic, and addressing them could add £100s to the value of your vehicle.

Now, open up that bonnet.

Some people will steam clean their engines. To be honest – this usually isn't necessary. In fact, older cars might be damaged after steam cleaning. Better to simply pay attention to any dirty or grimy areas with a sponge and clean water.

As for the oil – change it.

This is something that can be done yourself – if you know what you're doing. However, it's usually a cheap operation at the garage.

In some cases your car will sound a lot better with new oil – and that can add lots to your sale price. Serious buyers will often check the oil. If it's a gloopy mess, it shows the car hasn't been cared for.

Check the screenwash and antifreeze – are both full and the nozzles clean? If the antifreeze levels are very low, then it could be you have a leak. As far as the other fluids go, make sure that the brake and power steering fluids are correctly filled.

All of these fluids can have a serious affect on how your car runs. The smoother it runs – the better price you're likely to get. While you're at it, fill up the petrol tank. Always helps to have some in there for test drives!

Although not part of the engine mechanics, it's always useful to go through a list of the functions and features that could be broken, including:

- Door locks
- Windscreen wipers
- Cigarette lighter
- Radio
- Dashboard lights
- Seatbelts and seatbelt clips
- Lights and indicators
- Window buttons and the windows themselves
- Seats and the seat controls
- Interior lights – including glove box lights

Once you've gone through these areas, replacing bulbs etc as required, it's time to check the tires.

Consult the manual (or in some cases the radial of the tire) to see that you're at the optimum pressure. Having them at the correct pressure ensures a smoother ride – which again reflects well on the vehicle.

If your car shudders a little at cruising speed, you may need the wheels balanced. Similarly, if your treads are well worn, you could replace the tires – though there's no guarantee that this will result in a significantly higher sale price.

As always, if you're thinking “sell used car” give Sell Car UK a call for the fairest quote and the fastest pick-up.

Next month – dents and dings: how to get rid of them without spending a fortune.