Be Smart With Cars

Getting the best price for your used car will require you to do some research, and to get your car in good shape so that you can receive as close to your asking price as possible. The amount that you will receive for your car will also depend on whether you plan to trade it in for a different car, or sell it yourself in the private market.

How to determine your car's value

There are multiple online sources that provide tools to place a value on your car. These services will present a value for your car as a trade-in, and as a private sale. These values are determined by several factors, including:

• Your area. Cars are priced and valued differently in various areas of the country.
• Mileage. High mileage means lesser value.
• Physical condition. Scratches, dents, and dings will lower a car's value even though they don't affect the mechanical operation. Buyers want to drive a car that looks new, or is at least without battle scars.
• Make and model. Some cars brands are known for reliability, others for safety or performance features. Each of these factors can affect the value of your car.
• Options and amenities. Factory-installed options such as all-wheel drive or heated seats can enhance a car's resale value.

If you intend to sell your car, you may also check classified ads online for similar cars for sale in your area. Prices for some cars may vary at different times because of reasons that are unrelated to the specific car model. Seasonal vehicles, such as convertibles, sell for a better price in the spring or summer, while all-wheel drive cars will command a better price as winter snow approaches.

Gas prices are also a determining factor. When gas prices are low, larger cars sell for a better price, while high gas prices are good for selling a compact or hybrid car.

Preparing your car to be sold

When you determine your asking price, you should do everything possible to repair any defects that may give potential buyers reason to ask for a lower price. Cosmetic defects are important to correct, because most car buyers want a purchase a car that looks new.

You may consider getting your car detailed by a professional. If not, clean the car thoroughly inside and out, shine the tires with tire gloss, and remove personal items from the vehicle before showing it to prospective customers. Potential buyers should be able to envision themselves as the owner of the car, and that is more difficult when signs of your ownership are scattered throughout the car.

Cars are more than just modes of transportation in America. They are an extension of the driver, and even your unwanted car has the potential to produce love at first sight when it is presented in its best light to the right buyer.