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Selling Tips
10 Steps to Selling Your Car
Step 8: Handling Complications
By Philip Reed, Senior Consumer Advice Editor
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In some cases, you might reach an agreement with a buyer that is contingent on performing repair work on the car. This can lead to misunderstandings down the line, so avoid this if you can. The best thing to do is have your car in good running order while being fully aware of any necessary repairs. If you state clearly in your ads that the car is being sold "as is," you can refer to this statement when it's time to close the deal.
Still, a trip to the prospective buyer's mechanic might turn up a new question about the car's condition. What to do?
This must be handled on a case-by-case basis. If the repair is needed, and you trust the mechanic's assessment, you could propose reducing the agreed-upon price by all, or part, of the amount for the repair. If the repair is questionable, but the buyer is insistent, split the difference, or have the car taken to your mechanic for further evaluation.
Remember, the older the car, the more a mechanic is likely to find. At some point, you have to draw the line. You may have to say to the buyer, "True, this work could be done. But the car drives well as it is. And the proposed repair isn't addressing a safety concern." After all, a used car — particularly an elderly one — isn't expected to be perfect.
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