1. Do not strip parts yourself
Pulling the battery, wheels or stereo before sale almost always costs you more than the parts are worth separately — buyers price completeness.
2. Send good photos
Clear photos of all four sides, the interior, engine bay and odometer let the buyer quote confidently. Uncertainty pushes offers down; good information pushes them up.
3. Be honest about the condition
Mention the blown head gasket upfront. Buyers find out anyway, and honest sellers get firm quotes that do not shrink at pickup.
4. Have your paperwork ready
Photo ID and proof of ownership speed everything up and signal a straightforward sale.
5. Mention anything valuable
New tyres, a recent battery, alloy wheels, a tow bar, a near-new engine — list them. These details genuinely raise offers.
6. Sell sooner, not later
A car sitting on the lawn loses value: batteries die, seals perish, rust spreads, and tyres deflate. The best price for a dead car is usually this month.
7. Get a written quote
A quote in writing (even a text or email) removes haggling at the gate. It takes one form and two minutes to get yours.