Car selling advice

Selling a car can seem daunting. You want to get the best price you can, without waiting months to sell or getting ripped off in the process.

What's more, cars offered for sale are occasionally targeted by thieves. It's convenient for them because they can use car adverts to locate vehicles they're interested in, then take advantage of a seller who is eager to please - either by stealing the car while on a test drive, or paying with a fake bank draft or cheque.

But don't be intimidated - thefts are relatively rare and if you follow our step-by-step guide, you'll find it easier to locate a reliable buyer for your car.

1. Advertise your car carefully. The fewer telephone numbers you use, the better. Some buyers may regard a landline number as being more reassuring - also include the best times to call in your advert. Get all the documentation ready before you start selling, and make sure you've updated your cars information on Stop Car Crime.

2. Be wary of giving out information on the phone. Most buyers will want to see the car before talking about the details, so don't offer unnecessary information about yourself or the vehicle. Only give out the registration number if you can't avoid it - and don't supply any other information, like the vehicle identification number, until the buyer comes to see the car.

3. Be sensible when you show the car. Try to do this in daytime, have someone with you and accompany the buyer on any test drive. Make sure there's petrol in the tank (so you don't have to stop to fill up) and keep the keys on you except on the test drive. If you are threatened in any way (highly unlikely), don't try and resist - even the most expensive cars aren't worth risking injury over.

4. Once you've agreed a price, use a safe method of payment. A bank draft or building society cheque is best. Ask if you can go to the bank with the buyer, so you know it's genuine - if your car is stolen using a forged draft or cheque, your insurance won't pay out. Alternatively, you can use a bank transfer - the faster payments scheme means many transactions now complete instantly.

5. It can be wise to take a deposit. This gives you the security of having some of the money and offers reassurance the buyer is genuine. But never take a deposit over the phone or online - some criminals just want to get hold of your bank details. When the deposit is paid, give the buyer a clear receipt stating the car's make and model, registration number, the agreed price, deposit paid and balance due.

6. Complete the transaction at the right time. Try to close the deal when the banks are open (most crooks using forged cheques will want to pay in the evening) - and go straight to your bank with the payment. You can phone the seller's bank to make sure any cheque you're being offered is genuine. If being paid by cash, carefully examine some randomly selected notes.

7. Don't hand over the keys or any documents until you're completely happy. This sounds obvious, but it's easy to be taken in by a convincing criminal, especially if they've been the model of a buyer while looking at your car and negotiating. Don't be swayed by your feelings: having the cash in your hands is what matters.

It's not often most people carry out a transaction worth thousands of pounds with a stranger, and it's therefore natural to be a bit nervous. But don't be too worried. Selling a car privately is usually a trouble-free experience.

And remember: there are other options. You can trade your car in, sell it outright to a dealership, use an auctioneer - or find a friend or family member who's looking for a new motor. Whichever method you choose, good luck!

What next?

• Register your car with Stop Car Crime or update the details in our database.
  
• Buying a car too? Read our tips on buying a secondhand motor