Should I get my car detailed if I’m selling it? We don’t blame you for asking that question in the current used car market!
Why are used car prices so strong?
Used car prices are still high, and some might say inflated. Mostly, this is due to the supply chain disruption. Firstly caused by COVID and, more lately, the war in Ukraine. Many manufacturers purchase their vehicle wiring looms from factories in Ukraine. Plus, Russia and Ukraine produce fifty per cent of the world’s neon gas. The production of computer chips and electric car batteries relies on this gas. So, we may continue to see the effects for some time.
Because manufacturers can’t make cars quickly enough, the used car market has seen prices increase massively. If you’re in a position to sell a vehicle and don’t have to buy a new one quickly (manufacturers are quoting beyond a twelve-month wait for some new cars), then you can take advantage of this situation.
It is, of course, difficult to predict what will happen in the foreseeable future. Supply isn’t likely to improve. That said, with everyone squeezed by high inflation and ever-increasing living costs (especially fuel), the talk of potential recession might start pushing the prices back down next year.
So, if you’re considering selling a car, especially something economical to run, you might consider doing it sooner to take advantage of the market.

Should I get my car detailed if I’m selling?
So, now back to the original question – Should I get my car detailed if I’m selling it?
Even in the current market, presenting your car at its best will always help you attain the highest price and leave you in a strong position to negotiate. Depending on your vehicle’s current condition, there are a couple of detailing options to help you achieve this.
- Gloss Enhancement Detail – VIEW DETAILS
- Signature Clean – VIEW DETAILS
Where to sell:
Once you’ve invested in some detailing, it’s time to list your car. And there seem to be many ways to sell your car at the moment!
If you’ve got a middle-of-the-road, 2-5-year-old, mainstream car that has been well looked after, the likes of We Buy Any Car or Motorway can offer a great, hassle-free and safe solution.
After getting a quote online, WBAC will ask you to attend a local centre for one of their operatives to scrutinise the car. And I can almost guarantee that they will find something to knock money off for! Don’t take it personally.
Be honest and realistic about its condition; you might not be fussed about the scrape on the bumper, but they’ll deduct something for it.
Have a fair price in mind that you’re willing to let the car go for. As long as they come in above that, you can walk away with the money. The benefit, of course, is that you won’t have to deal with selling to random members of the public.
Motorway were a great option for my father. They have an excellent website. It guides you through taking a series of pictures of your car from different aspects. You receive offers from dealers who want to buy it. Be honest and transparent about the car; if service history is missing, you must tell them. If it makes a loud knocking noise when you start it, tell them. Once you’re happy with a bid, they arrange the car collection from you at home and pay you via bank transfer.
If you’re thinking of selling a used car and would like to get the best price possible, we can help. Call our Hampshire detailing studio to discuss options.