Top Tips for Selling Your Car

Get Your Car Looking Its Best

  • Give it a deep clean: A clean car, inside and out, makes a genuine difference to first impressions. The boot and windows count too — they're the bits people forget.
  • Fix the small stuff: Sort the minor scuffs, scratches and stray warning lights. Small fixes tend to pay for themselves in how the car comes across.
  • Gather your documents: Dig out the V5C logbook, service history and MOT certificate. Having it all to hand signals you're organised, and buyers notice.

Be Honest

  • Take clear photos: Pick a spot with decent light and shoot the car from every angle, interior included. Don't hide the blemishes — a buyer will find them anyway, and it's better they come from you than become a reason to knock down the price.
  • Write an honest description: Lead with the good bits, but be upfront about the flaws. Honesty is what builds trust, and trust is what closes the deal.

Negotiate with Confidence

  • Know your bottom line: Decide the lowest price you'll accept before anyone makes an offer, and keep it to yourself. If a bid comes in under that, you'll know where you stand.
  • Stay friendly but firm: Being pleasant costs nothing, and neither does holding your ground. You know your car better than anyone in the conversation.
  • Be ready for offers: Some haggling is normal — it's part of the process, not a sign of bad faith. If an offer's too low, say so politely and explain why your price is fair.
  • Don't rush: If an offer doesn't sit right, thank the buyer and take your time. Walking away sometimes leads somewhere better.

Sort the paperwork

  • Put it in writing: Once you've agreed a price, confirm the details in writing. It keeps things clear for both sides and saves any "I thought we said" later.
  • Transfer ownership: Complete the V5C and hand the new owner the green 'new keeper' slip. Tell the DVLA you've sold it — you can do this online, and your car tax will be cancelled or refunded automatically if you've paid in advance.
  • Cancel your insurance: Once the sale's done and the new owner drives off, the car's their responsibility. Cancel your cover, and check whether your insurer refunds the unused part of your term — some do, which you can put towards your next car.