Man fixing the car before selling it

Whenever you want to sell a used car for cash, thoughts like, “Should I service my car before selling it?” Or “Should I fix my car before selling it to a dealer?” come to mind. Cleaning your automobile, touching up the paint on the outside, and inspecting for scratches can increase the trade-in value of your vehicle. On the other hand, major problems should be left alone unless you want to spend more money on repairs than you would get back when you trade in your automobile. You need all the valuable information you can get to make the right decision regarding fixing your car before selling. Learn more on the dos and don’ts of trading in your car.

What I Shouldn’t Fix in My Car Before Selling It?

Selling a used car for cash that has had major repairs can be tricky, and you’ll need to compare the pros and cons before deciding whether to fix it before selling. On the other hand, you may acquire more money for it by doing some repairs. But also, you should know that fixing up a car can be expensive, and the repairs’ costs may exceed the vehicle’s value.  If you’re wondering, “should I fix my car before selling?” AutoGeeks suggests avoiding expensive repairs for three reasons:
  1. Depending on the dealership, they may not thoroughly examine your vehicle before completing the trade-in; therefore, the cost of these repairs may not be deducted from your trade-in price.

  2. Dealerships offer the experience and resources to quickly and effectively repair severe defects at a considerably cheaper cost than you would pay out of pocket. This is how dealerships earn money by purchasing and reselling old automobiles.

  3. Major repairs will be costly, reducing the return from a trade-in. Replacing significant parts such as the engine, transmission, brakes, or suspension won’t necessarily increase the value of your car by much. In some cases, it may even decrease the value because buyers are wary of pre-owned vehicles that have had major work done on them. 

Understanding what repairs you shouldn’t be doing before trading in your car can save time and money while still getting the best value for your vehicle. Make sure to always consult a certified mechanic before undertaking any repairs, and be sure to research the estimated value of your car before making any decisions. When it comes to repairing your car, it’s best to use quality parts and materials. An excellent option to consider is AutoGeeks, a company that offers aftermarket parts designed to meet or exceed the original manufacturer’s specifications. We provide great value and reliability, so you can be sure your car will be in great shape when you trade it in. Another tip when trading in your car is to ensure all documents are in order. You will need to have proof of purchase for the vehicle, as well as any repair documents. Be sure to have all the documents you need before bringing the car in for a trade-in, as it will help you get the best value for your vehicle.

What Should I Fix in My Car Before Trading It In?

Man in Black Crew Neck T-Shirt Fixing a Car for Trade In When trading in or selling used cars for cash, one should first answer the question, “should I fix my car before selling.” This is because there are many factors to consider when deciding whether or not you should fix it before doing so. On the other hand, you might be tempted to sell it as-is and get a quick cash injection; but you should know that fixing common costly repairs can spike its value and make it attractive to potential buyers. Even drivers who want the most terrific bargain on their automobile may think, “Should I fix my car before trading it in since there are so many disadvantages to completing repairs on my own?” You should know that fixing certain parts will boost your car’s resale value. While you may make modest, minor tweaks to your automobile to retain or boost its trade-in value, dealerships sometimes reduce the value of the money they will spend on reconditioning in the event of serious concerns that aren’t visible. Examine this short list of things you may do to get your automobile in fantastic condition before trading it in at AutoGeeks:
  • Check the fluids (brake and transmission), oil, radiator, and windshield washer – make sure they’re all up to date, so the dealer knows you’ve been doing essential maintenance.

  • Check the headlights to ensure they are operating correctly, and replace them if necessary.

  • Repair any scratches – if the damages are minimal, you may attempt to remove them yourself.

  • Wash the vehicle: Whether you do it yourself or hire an expert, you must wash the car to remove any stains and markings.

  • Wax your automobile – you should wax it to make it shine after cleaning it.

  • Clean the interior – remove any waste and personal objects, and clean the windows and carpets.

You should also ensure that your car’s features are in working order. This means checking the car’s lights, brakes, tires, and other systems. You should also ensure that all your service records are up to date. Providing proof of regular maintenance will show potential buyers that you took care of your vehicle, which may help you get a better price. Additionally, you should clean your car’s interior and exterior to give it a fresh look and smell. Finally, if it is affordable for you, it may be worth investing in some accessories to boost the value of your car. Accessories like seat covers, floor mats, and even a new stereo can go a long way in helping your vehicle stand out during resale. Having a well-maintained car is also likely to be more reliable for the buyer, which could make the buyer more likely to pay a higher price for it. Additionally, if you’re trading in your car, the dealership may be willing to offer you a higher trade-in value if you have recently fixed any major issues. This could be a great way to make a few extra bucks when getting rid of your old car. By taking the time to properly fix up your car before trading it in, you can ensure that you get the best value possible when selling your vehicle. With some preparation, you can maximize the value of your car and get the best deal possible when trading it in. It’s also always best to shop around and get multiple quotes before committing to any repairs.

Can I Sell a Damaged Car?

Mercedes Keys You may still sell your old car for cash if you are truthful with the buyer. You could receive less than $5000 for it, but that money can go into a new vehicle.  The good news – and the essence of this automobile sales scheme – is that not all car faults are major concerns. Minor maintenance and simple repair work may often significantly increase the worth of your car in the eyes of a prospective buyer. However, you must be careful not to overestimate the car’s worth when describing it or making promises. Dishonesty can backfire and cost you far more money than you could potentially make from a sale. Instead, be honest and upfront with potential buyers, and if you’re unable to answer their questions, then you may want to take your car in for a professional inspection. That way, the buyer will have all the information about the vehicle before making an offer.

Trade-In Your Car to Auto Geeks Today

Another great way to make sure your car is in its best condition when you go to sell it is by using AutoGeeks. AutoGeeks offers a comprehensive car repair and maintenance service that can assist you with all your car needs. So whether you want your car serviced, or detailed, or want some general repairs, AutoGeeks has you covered. They even offer an auto appraisal service, so you can get an idea of what your car is worth before selling it. With AutoGeeks, you can be sure your vehicle will look its best before it goes on the market. If you decide to sell your old car for cash, you’ll want to ensure you set a realistic price for it. You don’t want to try to get top dollar for a vehicle that has been damaged or needs repairs. Set a fair price, and let potential buyers know about any possible issues with the car upfront. That way, all parties involved are on the same page, and you can agree without surprises.

Final Words

The most crucial thing in trading in your car is to be informed and prepared. Knowing the market value of your vehicle and researching potential trade-in offers can help you always get the best deals available.  Taking the time to fix any minor damage, completing regular maintenance tasks, and providing detailed service records can also increase the likelihood of a successful sale. Ultimately, if you plan ahead and know your rights as a seller, you’ll be in a more profitable position to make the most out of your car trade-in. So keep these dos and don’ts in mind, and you are well on your way to a successful sale. If you’re ready to sell, Auto Geeks will offer you the best market rate for your car.