One of the most common enquiries I receive is from the mystified car seller. They have a perfectly good car, perhaps not a desirable brand, or slightly high mileage, and a dealer just won’t offer them anything like what its worth. So what do you do?
The best way to deal with this is to sell it privately. This is also the right place for a savvy car buyer to look. Some cars are more suited to buying privately than others and here are three to think about.
Renault Clio
Attractive styling, economical new 'mini' turbo engines give good MPG and power. Fantastic value across the range with a versatile range of options and specifications.
Most economical: 1.5 dCi
Best used deal: 1.2 TCE
Why buy or sell privately? Small cars hold a premium at dealers, but you don’t get that in a part exchange. A good spec small car will sell fast privately for more.
UsedCarExpert .com fault checks: N/A
Used Car Expert price magazine: A 2007 1.2 TCE with average mileage of 10,000 can be found for around £8,000.
Ford Mondeo
One of the best used family cars ever made which is getting even cheaper since the arrival of the new model. Loads of space inside, good to drive, safe and even the basic LX has all you will ever need.
Most economical: 2.0 TDCi 46 mpg
Best used deal: 1.8 petrol
Why buy or sell privately? There are so many available at dealers, you never get a good part exchange price. Good condition cars will achieve top price privately.
UsedCarExpert .com fault checks: 18
Used Car Expert price magazine: The old shape, 2007 registered 1.8 petrol with average miles of 18,000 will be less than £6,700.
Saab 9-3
Distinctive and fashionable styling without being controversial. Like its predecessor the 9-3 has an excellent balance of performance refinement handling and comfort.
Most economical: 1.9 TiD 50mpg
Best used deal: 1.8 or 2.0t petrol engines
Why buy or sell privately? Saabs used prices are very weak. The only way to get a good price is to cut out middle-men. Private cars can be in better condition than ex-fleet cars.
UsedCarExpert .com fault checks: 12
Used Car Expert price magazine: A 2007 1.8t with average mileage of 6,300 will be just £10,000 at a dealer. As low as £8,000 in some private sales.