Simple Checks Before Selling Your Car: Your Pre-Sale Car Care List
Selling your car doesn’t have to be stressful. A little preparation before you hand over the keys can make the whole process smoother - and in some cases, help you get a better price. Whether you’re selling privately or trading it in, these quick checks will help you finish strong and show your car in its best light.
1. Check Your Tyres and Wheels
Your tyres say a lot about how well a car’s been cared for. Make sure they’re properly inflated, the tread is legal (at least 1.6mm), and there’s no obvious cracking or bulging. Clean the wheels if you can - a quick wash can make a tired car look fresher instantly.
If you’re unsure about what good tyre care looks like, we’ve already covered it in our guide to why tyre maintenance matters.
2. Take a Few Honest Photos
Good photos help you get accurate quotes and avoid awkward questions later. Take clear pictures from all angles, including the inside, and make sure the lighting’s decent. You don’t need filters or fancy shots - just honest images that show the true condition of your car.
3. Declutter and Clean - Inside and Out
You don’t need to pay for a professional valet, but giving the car a decent clean makes a huge difference. Clear out personal items, old receipts, takeaway cups, and anything in the boot you’ve forgotten about. Then give the outside a quick wash - it doesn’t have to shine like new, just look cared for.
If you’re wondering which products are worth buying, take a look at our piece on the needs, wants, and overhyped car cleaning products.
4. Top Up Your Fluids
Check the oil, coolant, screenwash, and brake fluid. These are simple things that take minutes to do but leave a good impression - especially if someone’s inspecting or test-starting the car. Even if your car’s going to a buyer like Cash For Cars, it’s always good practice to hand it over in working order.
5. Get Your Paperwork in Order
Before you arrange collection or sale, gather everything you’ll need:
- Your V5C logbook (the registration document)
- MOT certificate
- Service history or receipts
- A valid form of ID
Lost something? The DVLA can issue replacements for most documents, but it’s best to sort that early so it doesn’t delay your sale.
6. Test the Battery
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for last-minute selling stress. If your car’s been parked for a while, start it up and let it run for a few minutes. If it struggles, consider jump-starting it or replacing the battery before you sell. It’s a small effort that can make handover day go far more smoothly.
Our article on car battery basics can help you spot the early warning signs.
7. Remove Extras and Personal Data
Before you sell, disconnect any devices and clear personal info:
- Wipe your sat-nav or infotainment system data.
- Remove dash cams, chargers, and mounts.
- Take off private plates if you’re keeping them.
It’s a simple step, but it protects your privacy and makes life easier for the next owner.
Ready to Sell?
Once you’ve ticked off your list, your car’s ready to go - clean, prepared, and problem-free. Whether it’s a runner, non-runner, or simply time for an upgrade, Cash For Cars makes the next step easy.
Get a quick, no-obligation quote today and see how much your car could be worth.