Guide
Checklist: how to prepare your car for sale
Short answer
Before you list the car: clean it inside and out, document its condition and known faults, gather the service book, receipts and all keys, check the inspection status, set a price based on comparable cars and take daylight photos from every angle. A well-prepared car usually sells faster and for a better price.
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How thoroughly should I clean the car?
Enough for the car to look cared for, both in the photos and at the viewing.
- Wash the outside, including rims and wheel arches
- Vacuum mats and seats and wipe all surfaces
- Clean the windows inside and out
- Empty the glovebox, door pockets and boot
- Consider a professional valet if the car is very dirty
How do I document condition and faults?
Go over the car and note and photograph everything you find – scratches, dents, stains, warning lights and noises.
It builds the buyer's trust and protects you, because as the seller you are responsible for faults you knew about but did not disclose.
- Photograph all damage
- Note warning lights and known technical problems
- Check that all lights and indicators work
- Check tread depth and tyre pressure
Which documents do I need ready?
The registration certificate, the service book, the latest inspection report, receipts for work done, the owner's manual and all keys.
The registration certificate is needed for the ownership transfer. State in the listing exactly how many keys come with the car.
Do I need to have the car inspected before selling?
No, there is no requirement. But check when the next inspection is due: plenty of time left makes the car more attractive, and if it is close it may pay to do it first.
A voluntary condition test at an inspection company gives the buyer an independent statement of the car's condition and can shorten the time to sell. You can check the inspection status with Transportstyrelsen.
How do I set the price?
Compare with cars of the same make, model, model year and mileage, and expect the final price to be 5–15% below the asking price.
Build in three to five percent of room to negotiate. A price just under the market brings more enquiries than one above it. See What is my car worth?.
How do I take good listing photos?
Shoot outdoors in daylight from every angle, with clear photos of the interior and of any damage.
- Avoid shooting straight into the sun
- Front, rear, both sides, and three-quarter views from front and rear
- Driver's seat, back seat, dashboard and boot
- Clear photos of damage – better to show than to hide
- A photo of the service book if it is well kept
How do I know I am ready to list the car?
You are ready when every item below is ticked off.
- Car cleaned inside and out
- Damage photographed and documented
- Registration certificate at hand
- Service book and receipts gathered
- Inspection status checked
- Condition test done (optional)
- Price set from comparable cars
- Listing photos taken in good light
- Purchase agreement ready to fill in
Frequently asked questions
Is a professional valet worth it?
Should I mention small faults in the listing?
What is a condition test?
Does the service history have to be complete?
Do I need the purchase agreement before I list the car?
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This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Rules, fees and e-services can change – always check current details with the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen), the Swedish Consumer Agency (Konsumentverket) or your bank.
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