Before you put an ad in the local paper, a magazine or the internet, think about the price. What you ask for the car will be down to the mileage, age and condition. A car price guide will help you set a ballpark figure, bearing in mind that most buyers will want to negociate.

How you choose to sell your car depends on the model – you may opt for an ad in the local paper or if your car is a classic or specialist model, in a niche magazine or website. To maximise the price you can ask for your car, address any problems such as leaks beforehand, and make sure the car is clean and tidy.

If there's only a short time before the MOT ends, have another done as long as it won't cost you too much - a car with a new MOT will attract more buyers. Be upfront about any engine or bodywork problems, have the MOT certificate and registration documents handy. Bear in mind that the market for cars is usually more buoyant in spring and summer than the winter.

Wise Words

Draft your advert first. The basic facts any buyer will want are:

1. Model
2. Engine size
3. Year
4. Mileage
5. Colour
6. Condition
7. Service history

If you've had the car from new, mention that as knowing that a car has only had one careful owner is always a plus point.