Car sellers losing up to £500

New research from Manheim Auctions has found that motorists can be out of pocket to as much as £500 when it comes to selling their car - simply because they don't prepare their car before they sell.

Damaged alloy wheels and headlights can reduce a car’s value by £150, while cracked windscreens and poorly presented carpets and seats devalue a car by as much £350.

Minor bodywork damage can also cost as much as £250 per panel.

Less surprising, however, is the news that a typical three year old car without full documentation and no service history could cost the owner between £200 and £500 at the point of sale.

Manheim has made the call to make motorists realise the importance of getting the best price for their cars.

With the government set to announce spending cuts that will hit British motorists hard, now is the time to act.

‘It’s imperative that motorists do everything they can to maximise what their car is worth,’ said Craig Mailey, client services & marketing director, Manheim Auctions.