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Top 6 tips for selling a car

Last updated on June 9, 2022
Selling a car can be stressful. To make the process as easy as possible, we’re sharing our top tips for how to sell a car privately.

 6 tips for selling a car

1. Prepare your car and make sure it’s at its best

When selling your car, make it as appealing as possible for buyers. Clean your car thoroughly, both inside and out. If it’s been a while since the last clean, consider having it detailed and polished by a professional.

So your car performs at its best during any test drives, carsguide recommends you inflate your tyres to the recommended air pressure, complete a wheel alignment and get the wheels balanced.

If you’re selling a car and keeping the number plates, you’ll need to:

  • Contact your state road authority to cancel the registration of those number plates, and
  • Register new number plates to attach to the car you’re selling.

2. Create a great ad

Create a great ad to help your car stand out from others on the market. Include a precise description of your car, with details of important information such as model, year, and any extras or modifications. Invest the time to take high quality photos, to show off your car in the best light.

3.  Set the right price, but be prepared to be flexible

Do your research, and set an appropriate market price for your car.

In general, the higher your price, the more time it will take to sell. Beware, many car buyers expect to negotiate, so you may have to settle for a little less than you advertised.

4. Get your paperwork in order

Different states and territories require different paperwork for selling a car, so check what’s required in your location. Common documents include service logbooks, current registrations, and warranty information. Some states and territories also require a safety inspection by a mechanic, such as a roadworthy certificate  in VIC, QLD and ACT.

Make sure you let your car insurance provider know that you’ve sold your vehicle.

5. Do your due diligence on the buyer

When arranging an inspection, ask for the buyer’s details including name, phone number, and if possible, address and driver’s licence number.

Before finalising the sale, ask for a second form of identification and always obtain payment in full before you hand over the keys.

6. Prepare for a test drive

One of our top tips for buyers is to always test drive the car – as a seller, you’ll need to accommodate test drives in a way that is safe for you and your car.

If a potential buyer wants to test drive your car, make sure to record their licence details before you start. You should also contact your insurer or check your car insurance Product Disclosure Statement to make sure your car is covered if a potential buyer takes it for a spin. Always accompany the buyer on the test drive. Going along for the ride is also a great way to explain your car’s features and answer the buyer’s questions.

Lastly, help look after your own safety by starting and ending the test drive in a public location during daylight hours.

In the market again for a car? Check out our Top 6 tips for buying a car.

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Disclaimer

This article has been prepared by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 (“Allianz”). In some cases, information has been provided to us by third parties and while that information is believed to be accurate and reliable, its accuracy is not guaranteed in any way. 

Any opinions expressed constitute our views at the time of issue and are subject to change. Neither Allianz, nor its employees or directors give any warranty of accuracy or accept responsibility for any loss or liability incurred by you in respect of any error, omission or misrepresentation in this article.

 

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