Is one of your new year resolutions to replace your current vehicle? Before you list it online or drive to a dealership that accepts trade-ins for used cars, do your due diligence to ensure a fair price. Below is a helpful guide to help you get your car or SUV ready to sell, and how to earn the highest price possible.

A Quick Guide to Selling Used Cars

Preparing the Car

Have your current vehicle thoroughly inspected before attempting to sell it. A complete mechanical inspection will shed light on any problems you may not be aware of, which will often impact the sale amount. For smaller repairs or replacements, it may be valuable for you to cover these costs now, rather than allowing them to impact the amount you receive from potential buyers. Be sure to collect all mechanic records you have in case the buyer or dealership wants to see your vehicle’s maintenance history. 

Additionally, you may have the vehicle professionally detailed before attempting to sell it. While this does require an upfront investment on your part, the process will make the interior and exterior increasingly desirable to potential buyers, who are more inclined to purchase from someone who has continued to take great care of their car throughout its life span.  

Earn a Fair Competitive Price

Before speaking to anyone about selling your car, it’s recommended to input your vehicle information into an industry-trusted site, such as Kelly Blue Book. Their online resource allows you to view the current retail value of your specific used car based on its features, mileage, prior accidents, etc. The free reporting tool also includes a range for the least to most you may be able to get for your used vehicle, which can be a helpful tool when it comes to negotiations.

If it’s the right time to sell your used car, consider the local used car dealership, Express Motors. Based in Dayton, OH, and serving drivers in the surrounding areas, they accept vehicle trade-ins for used cars and SUVs. They also have an extensive selection of pre-owned vehicles for sale, which is updated weekly and always selected with quality, safety, and affordability in mind. To determine how much your current vehicle may be worth, utilize Express Motors’ convenient online trade-in calculator. To learn more about their current inventory of used cars or to discuss your trade-in, give them a call directly at (937) 223-2277.