Do provide as much detail about the car's past as you can. Keep receipts for work carried out, MoT certificates and service records, and have them to hand.
Do make sure your vehicle meets basic levels of roadworthiness. If your vehicle is seriously defective and unroadworthy, you may be committing an offence.
Do provide a "sold as seen, tried and approved without guarantee" receipt (remember no wording on the receipt is foolproof).
Do ensure the DVLA is told that the vehicle has changed hands – otherwise future convictions and offences will be traced to you:
- Recently issued vehicle registration documents require both parties to sign and complete the form; whether or not you have this version you should make sure the DVLA is informed.
- Ask for ID to prove the buyer is who they say they are.
- Check that test drivers are covered by either your insurance policy or the potential buyer's. You could be prosecuted for permitting uninsured use of your car.
- Always accompany any potential buyers on a test drive.
Do prepare your car for sale; see that the bodywork is clean, and that the interior is reasonably tidy.
Do price your vehicle realistically – especially if you want a quick sale. Check car magazines and price guides; see what other sellers are asking for the same model.
Don't make false or reckless claims about your vehicle (especially in an advertisement):
- Keep to the facts that will most interest potential buyers: "First to see will buy" adds little and convinces few.
- If you're selling a car for spares only, or which requires substantial repairs, include this information as part of the written receipt when you sell.
Don't allow uninsured or unaccompanied test drives:
- Check that test drives are covered by either your insurance policy or the potential buyer's. You could be prosecuted for permitting uninsured use of your car.
- Always accompany any potential buyers on a test drive.
Don't sell a car that is subject to a hire-purchase or conditional sale agreement, unless you have the finance company's permission.
Don't let anyone drive your car away until you are satisfied you have been or will be paid in full.
