Editor's Note: This is the second in a series of five articles designed to help answer questions and guide users through the process of selling a car or truck on Vehix. Please be sure to check out all five articles, including the final installment on some of the many scams and other frauds found in the online marketplace. Familiarizing yourself with the process and the risks involved are your best protection and the best way to ensure a successful deal.
Going in for an "auto physical"
As we mentioned at the end of our first article, it's important to be honest and upfront when selling your car. Some states and localities have lemon laws that can extend to private party sales. To make sure no one ends up accusing you of selling them a bill of goods, it's in your own interest to have your vehicle thoroughly checked out, ideally by a dealer, or at least by a certified mechanic to know what you're selling. Get a printed list of all potential problems and issues, no matter how small or large, as well as a diagnostic report for all your car or truck's systems – a long column of 'OK's can help motivate an uncertain buyer.
Also take a close look at that CARFAX report that you were smart enough to pull on your vehicle after reading our recommendations in our first article. The report will tell you about recalls, major accidents and other important information. Remember, a potential buyer can access this report, too – so if you can prove you've addressed any of the issues it reveals, or if there are no issues to reveal, it will go a long way to earning the buyer's trust and cash.