How to Prepare Your Car for Sale and Get the Best Price

Every day I see the difference presentation makes. Two similar cars can get very different offers just because one has been prepared properly. You don’t need to spend a fortune. You just need to spend in the right places.

1. Clean it properly, or have it detailed

A professional detail is one of the best things you can spend money on before a sale. A clean engine bay, spotless interior, fresh-smelling cabin and glossy paint tell a buyer the car has been looked after. Pay attention to the areas buyers notice: seats, carpets, the boot, door jambs, wheels and headlights.

If you are keeping the car a while longer, consider protecting the paint first. Read is ceramic coating worth it?

2. Fix the small things

Replace blown bulbs, worn wiper blades and missing caps. Touch up small stone chips and have minor scuffs repaired if it is cheap to do. These small faults make buyers wonder what else has been neglected. Big mechanical or panel repairs are different. Get a quote and think about whether it will really add that much to the price.

3. Get your paperwork together

• The service book and receipts.
• Both keys.
• The owner’s manuals.
• Receipts for tyres, brakes and major work.
• A payout letter from your lender if you still have finance. Read selling a car with finance owing.

In Queensland you also need a current safety certificate to sell a registered light vehicle. Read our safety certificate guide and the selling paperwork step by step.

4. Take good photos

Photograph the car after it has been cleaned, in soft, even light, with a plain background. Take the front three-quarter, side, rear, interior, dashboard with the odometer, boot and wheels. Be honest about any damage and show it. It saves time with buyers who would walk away later anyway.

5. Price it realistically

Look at similar cars currently for sale, with similar kilometres, condition and specification. Overpricing usually means the car sits for weeks and ends up selling for less. Read what sets your car’s value.

6. Or let us do it for you

If you would rather not do the preparation, photos, advertising and buyers yourself, consignment is worth considering. Our launch package includes professional detailing, photography and advertising, and we handle the buyers. Or, for speed, we can make a direct offer.

Quick answers

Is it worth detailing a car before selling?

Usually, yes. A professional detail is relatively inexpensive and makes the car look better in photos and in person.

Should I fix scratches before selling my car?

Fix small, cheap things. For bigger repairs, compare the cost with how much it is likely to add to the price.

Do I need a safety certificate to sell a car in Queensland?

Yes, to sell a registered light vehicle you need a current safety certificate.

What documents do I need to sell my car?

The service history, keys, manuals, a safety certificate, and a payout letter if there is finance owing.

Selling your car in Brisbane?

See consignment, a direct sale or a trade-in.