Selling your car: Tips for a quick sale and the best price

Published on 28 November, 2021

Overview

As used vehicle prices soar, we share our tips on how to get the most for your motor

Getting the price right

When you sell your car, it’s important to set a reasonable price. Set it too high and you will turn buyers away; if it is too low, you may lose out on a good deal, so it’s important to strike the right balance.

Always remember to leave room for negotiation with a potential buyer. Online car selling sites help you get an idea of the average price, but it’s important to search online for cars of the same age, condition, mileage and those with similar extras.

Often, seasonal fluctuations can influence prices. An oversupply of convertibles on sale in summer will lower selling prices. Similarly, the threat of a bad winter can mean demand for 4x4s will soar.

Ensure your car is ready to be sold

Restoring your car to its former glory is key to getting the best price. Time takes its toll, and everything from people to pets leaves an indelible mark on your once-pristine vehicle. A thorough wash, wax and polish will make a huge difference to your paintwork. Make sure the interior is as spotless as the paintwork on the outside. Clean the seats, vacuum the carpet and polish the dashboard. Make it look and feel like a well-cared-for car.

Should I do repair work on it?

How much repair work you do before you sell your car depends on whether you decide to trade it in at a dealership, or sell it privately. If you are bringing your car to a dealership, there is no need to repair any minor paintwork damage or simple mechanical faults.

Generally, dealerships prefer to do repairs themselves. There is also no need to get new tyres or have the car serviced. If selling privately, however, it’s all about your car’s kerb appeal — so fix any obvious problems, including paint chips or minor body damage. Also ensure everything is in working order, including your car’s headlights and brake lights.

What paperwork do I need?

It’s important to keep on top of the admin when you sell your car. Ensure all the car’s paperwork is to hand, including the handbook, service book, Vehicle Registration Certificate or logbook and all the NCT certificates. Ideally, you should also include any repair and maintenance documents and any relevant warranties.

Where can I sell my car?

Selling a car to a dealer

The simplest way to sell your car is to trade it in when buying a new or used car from a dealer. However, the age of your car will determine how viable this is. If your car is older than the stock generally held at the dealerships, it is unlikely the dealer will be keen to take it.

Selling a car privately

If you sell your car privately, often you’ll get more money. However, it also is a lot more hassle than going to a dealer. You will need to advertise your car on a site such as Cars Ireland, Carzone or DoneDeal. Unfortunately, you may have to deal with some time-wasters and you have no guarantee of a sale.

Selling a car at auction

Auctioning your car is a quick and relatively fuss-free way to sell. When setting the reserve price, the minimum amount you are willing to accept, you should factor in the fees that you’ll have to pay the auction house. It is also important to remember there is no guarantee your car will reach its reserve price.