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How do I sell a car that needs repairs?
I bought a car years ago that I have slowly been fixing but I no longer have the time to work on it. I’ve done most of the repairs myself, and have all the parts, but want to sell it. How can I sell this car even though it needs repairs?
Jack Walsh · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Much like yourself, not every person looking to buy a car is looking for a vehicle in peak condition and some are looking for a project vehicle or to purchase a vehicle for parts. To sell a car that you know needs repairs you should do the following:
- Be honest about the fact the car needs repairs and, if possible, inform the buyer of exactly what needs to be done. It may be a smart idea to have it looked over by a mechanic and get an expert opinion before selling.
- Stay organized and keep a running list of what you have already fixed, what needs to be fixed, and what parts you currently have for the repairs
- Be prepared to negotiate and don’t overprice the vehicle. The market for vehicles needing repairs is different than the market for running vehicles and the cost of repairs, and time required, should be factored into your asking price.
- Consider selling the vehicle for parts if a mechanic says it is not worth repairing or you are struggling to find a buyer
- Sell the vehicle to a salvage yard or junkyard if you are looking to quickly get rid of it or are struggling to find any buyers
If you decide not to sell or have another project vehicle you’ve recently fixed up, don’t forget to register and insure the vehicle before hitting the road. You can download the
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