Fix car before attempting to sell?
bryceray1121
11-18-2010, 09:55 AM
I'm getting ready to sell a car for the first time. The car I am going to be selling is a 1997 4-door Chevy Blazer. I have 2 main questions before beginning this process. The vehicle has 2 main problems with it which are both fixable. I am debating as to whether or not fixing prior to selling would be a good or bad thing (return on investment).
Problems:
Cracked Windshield (Quoted 165 to fix).
Dead Heat Fan Motor (Quoted 165 to fix).
If I fix these problems do you think I will get a better price for the vehicle (which offsets the price of the fix)? or should I try to sell it as is?
My second question. Based on your opinion of whether or not it should be fixed first. What is a good goal for the selling price of this vehicle?
A little more info about it:
Well-kept interior
Exterior has some small scratches. The trim is missing off the drivers door (I still have the trim and could attempt to reattach it if you think it will add value).
Green 4-door
Rear Wiper
4WD
Automatic
New tires in front, rear tires in good condition
Rear bench seat folds down (splits in 2).
Roof rack
AM/FM radio and Cassette
Automatic Windows and Locks
Cruise Control
Passed inspection 3 months ago.
Approximately 161k miles.
Thanks for our help and let me know if I can provide you with any additional information.
Problems:
Cracked Windshield (Quoted 165 to fix).
Dead Heat Fan Motor (Quoted 165 to fix).
If I fix these problems do you think I will get a better price for the vehicle (which offsets the price of the fix)? or should I try to sell it as is?
My second question. Based on your opinion of whether or not it should be fixed first. What is a good goal for the selling price of this vehicle?
A little more info about it:
Well-kept interior
Exterior has some small scratches. The trim is missing off the drivers door (I still have the trim and could attempt to reattach it if you think it will add value).
Green 4-door
Rear Wiper
4WD
Automatic
New tires in front, rear tires in good condition
Rear bench seat folds down (splits in 2).
Roof rack
AM/FM radio and Cassette
Automatic Windows and Locks
Cruise Control
Passed inspection 3 months ago.
Approximately 161k miles.
Thanks for our help and let me know if I can provide you with any additional information.
Ray paulsen
11-24-2010, 09:52 PM
If you were to trade with a dealer I suggest you don't fix anything.
Selling private, tell buyer you will fix the Windshield and fan motor at an added cost of $$$,,, it really comes down to the negotiation stage, personally I would not pre - fix.
Yes , attempt to attach the trim and buy a good quality rubbing compound for the scratches,,, if the scratches are fine buy a Fine grit compound, if scratches are a little deeper medium to coarse quality, to get a better understanding how this works http://www.usedcartips.org/dents.html
As for selling price,,, being a 4WD, and in good condition with only windshield and fan motor need fixing,,, I will peg it at somewhere between $3 - $3,500 for private sale.
PS,,, IMO,,, to a dealer your vehicle "as is" right now is worth about $1500. fix the issues you mentioned " don't " it will still be around $1500. value for a dealer.
Selling private, tell buyer you will fix the Windshield and fan motor at an added cost of $$$,,, it really comes down to the negotiation stage, personally I would not pre - fix.
Yes , attempt to attach the trim and buy a good quality rubbing compound for the scratches,,, if the scratches are fine buy a Fine grit compound, if scratches are a little deeper medium to coarse quality, to get a better understanding how this works http://www.usedcartips.org/dents.html
As for selling price,,, being a 4WD, and in good condition with only windshield and fan motor need fixing,,, I will peg it at somewhere between $3 - $3,500 for private sale.
PS,,, IMO,,, to a dealer your vehicle "as is" right now is worth about $1500. fix the issues you mentioned " don't " it will still be around $1500. value for a dealer.
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