Preparing Your Vehicle for Sale
When it’s time for your classic vehicle to go to a new owner and you have entrusted a dealer or auction to handle the sale, what can you do to help ensure it gets top dollar and there are no problems when you drop it off?
The most obvious thing to do is a thorough wash and detail. Not just a quick wash in the driveway, but one that focuses not only on the exterior, but the wheels, undercarriage, trunk, interior and very importantly the engine compartment. Nothing spoils a beautifully detailed vehicle than to open the hood and see grease, oil, dust and dirt. Yes, it’s a little bit of work, but important in the overall presentation. Make sure on the way to drop off the car it doesn’t get additional dirt on it after all of that hard work. Remove any unnecessary items from the car, especially the old plastic trophies you won at the local car show. Nobody wants those!
When is the last time you checked to see if your title matches the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on your vehicle? Is the VIN on the vehicle a proper manufacturers VIN plate or something someone had made at the local engraving shop? Both very important as most dealers or auctions won’t take a vehicle with an incorrect title or without a proper VIN plate. Some VIN numbers are very difficult to see as they may have been stamped on the frame and the VIN may be covered by years of grease or even worse, covered by a new fender or aftermarket part. Both can be fixed, but it certainly slows the process. Where’s that garage door opener and EZ Pass? Probably right above you where you left them (don’t forget your sunglasses too).
Does your vehicle have wheel locks? Make sure the lug remover is in the vehicle so that doesn’t hang up the new buyer. Any paperwork, receipts, factory documents are important to the new owner, and you should make an effort to locate them and include with sale. Write down everything you know about the history and components of the car. A description that says, “red with a 4-speed” is not enough and neither is “the car speaks for itself”, it doesn’t! Following these simple guidelines will make the process much smoother and allow you to get top dollar for your classic vehicle while someone else does all the work.
Provided complements of Classic Auto Mall. Located in Central PA less than two hours away from most Collector Car Guide readers, Classic Auto Mall showcases a variety of classic and specialty vehicles of various makes and models. Visit www.ClassicAutoMall.com or call 888-227-0914 to schedule a free tour today.
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