With any used car, particularly classics, it’s absolutely the buyer’s responsibility to verify that the condition of the car is worth the purchase price. We recommend that buyers have the car inspected by a reputable mechanic BEFORE they purchase it. However, as a responsible seller, there are certain car parts that you may want to replace, or at the very least have inspected, before attempting to sell your car. Some of these are parts that, if neglected, could put the buyer at risk of getting in an accident, but some might just help your sale if the prospective buyer knows they don’t have to worry about them. If you’re getting ready to sell your car, take a look at:

1. The Brakes

Front and rear brakes should definitely be inspected prior to selling. If your brakes are in adequate condition, with good life left on the pads, there’s no need to do any repairs. However, if the brake pads are nearing the end of their life, it’s a good idea to replace the brakes before your try to sell the car. Brake jobs are relatively inexpensive, and if you’re a DIYer, you might be able to do the job yourself.

2. The Battery

Car batteries usually last three to five years, depending on mileage, maintenance, and even seasonal temperatures. Make sure your battery is in good condition before attempting to sell. Most auto parts stores will perform a free check, or you can buy a cheap multimeter to check it yourself. Replacing the battery is an easy and cheap fix that gives the buyer one less thing to worry about.

3. Tires

Tires that have worn down tread can easily put the buyer at risk of being stranded on the side of the road. But, beyond that, they can be pricey depending on your make/model. If you don’t replace the tires, be prepared to come down on your asking price. Need help finding the right tires for your classic car? We’ve got several wheel and tire vendors at every Pomona Swap Meet, including the likes of Lucas Classic Tires.

4. Spark Plugs

You want your car to fire up on the first time when a buyer takes it for a test drive. Spark plugs can last anywhere from 20,000 miles to 100,000 miles, depending on the type of plug. When was the last time you changed your plugs? If it’s time for a change, or even close to time, this is usually an easy upgrade that you can do yourself. Of course, if you’re replacing the spark plugs, you’ll also want to inspect the spark plug wires, and you may want to replace those, too. Again, a relatively easy and inexpensive job, but something else that you can list when selling your car to make it stand out.

5. Belts

Serpentine belts are generally designed to last around 75,000 miles and timing belts will generally last around 100,000 miles. These are things that knowledgeable buyers will ask about when purchasing a used vehicle, and if you have receipts to show that the work was done on schedule, it will definitely help your sale.

Of course, if you have parts for your car that haven’t been installed yet, list those in your ad, too. Buyers appreciate a seller that took proper car of their car.

If you have questions about buying or selling your classic car, or if you want to find out more about the Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show, feel free to contact us or come on down to the next show!