Simple tips can increase car value by £2,800

A car expert has shared nine simple tips for drivers to increase the selling price of their cars. These suggestions, which can often be completed in just a few minutes, could help boost a vehicle's value by thousands of pounds. According to Auto Express, cleaning the car, making minor repairs, and locating important documents can raise the average selling price by £2,800. For instance, a well-maintained Ford Puma ST-Line may have a trade value of £11,550, while a car in poorer condition could be worth £9,200—a difference of £2,350. First impressions matter, so taking some time to clean your car can significantly impact potential buyers. Experts suggest that presenting a clean vehicle can prevent a drop in value of around 10-20%. A thorough cleaning may cost about £100 and take over an hour. Another helpful tip is to get a valid MOT. This can reassure buyers of the car’s condition and may increase its price by over £200. A fresh MOT typically costs about £54. For electric vehicles, providing a State of Health report for the battery can add an estimated £500. This report helps buyers gauge the battery's status. Addressing visible damage, like scuffed wheels, can also improve the car’s appeal. Properly fixing these issues might add more than £100 to the sale price. Having both keys for the car is important. Buyers expect at least two keys, and losing one can lead to a significant reduction in the car's value, with replacements costing up to £1,100. Gathering all necessary paperwork, especially the V5C registration document, can enhance the sale price. Failing to provide this document could delay the selling process by up to 25 days. A full service history can also increase a car's value by over £1,200. Buyers prefer seeing documented service history when making a purchase. Lastly, fixing a chipped windscreen is crucial too. Repairs cost between £50 and £120, but neglecting this damage could reduce the car's value by more than £1,000. When selling a car, taking good quality pictures is essential. Clear images showing both the interior and exterior can attract more potential buyers and help secure the best price.