How to Write an Effective Used Car Ad

By eHow Cars Editor

Rate: (5 Ratings)

Be honest, describe the car accurately, and keep it short.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Newspaper
  • Notebooks
  • Pens

Step1
Give the car's year, make and model.
Step2
Note the car's current mileage.
Step3
Describe the car's condition in a word or two. "Reliable" indicates exactly that; "clean" means no dents and good interior. "Running project" or "mechanic's special" means it needs restoration but has potential, "beater" means a jalopy reliable for neighborhood driving. "Beautiful" means exceptionally clean and appealing. Be creative but clear.
Step4
State if the car has always been garaged.
Step5
Identify recent repairs or overhauls: new clutch, 6,000 miles on rebuilt engine, new tires, tune-up every 3,000 miles.
Step6
Identify any cosmetic details, negative or positive: no dents, dent in left front fender, new paint, upholstery worn, new red paint.
Step7
If you are the first or second owner, state that.
Step8
State color.
Step9
State any interesting details that might drive up the price: convertible, roomy, rare.
Step10
Name a price. If the price is negotiable, add "b/o," meaning "or best offer."
Step11
If you do not want to bargain, add "firm," as in "$1,800 firm."
Step12
Give a phone number where you can be reached and a time when you will be there.
Step13
See the eHow entitled, "How to Read Used Car Classified Ads" and "How to Sell Your Used Car."

Tips & Warnings

  • Don't understate damage or overstate positives. Heightened expectations mean a lower final sale price.
  • If you have anything major to declare about the car, such as the need for a new transmission, say that in the ad. It's going to come out, so it might as well screen out those for whom it's a deal breaker up front.

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 We got many more responses to our online car ad when we revealed a little about ourselves as the car's owners. We reported truthfully how much we loved the car and why were selling it. I think buyers like to know they are dealing with real people.

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eHow Article:  How to Write an Effective Used Car Ad

eHow Cars Editor

eHow Cars Editor

Category: Cars

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