Decide why the vehicle no longer fits
Record whether the issue is its type, price bracket, age, preparation requirement or time in stock. Keep this separate from any actual vehicle defect. Your options might include keeping it, carrying out preparation or offering it to another dealer. Compare likely costs and practical constraints; none of those routes guarantees a better result.
Prepare one consistent vehicle record
Record the registration, exact make and model, variant, fuel, transmission, mileage, number of keys and location. Add your asking price and the VAT treatment to be confirmed on the invoice. Describe who is authorised to sell the vehicle and flag outstanding finance for discussion before any transaction. Keep private customer documents out of an initial enquiry.
Make known faults and evidence easy to review
List warning lights, starting or running problems, damage, tyre condition and any diagnosis already obtained. Distinguish a confirmed fault from something not yet investigated. Describe the actual service records available and any gaps. Record MOT expiry and advisories, but do not describe an MOT as proof of overall mechanical condition.
Photograph a useful condition pack
Take clear photographs of the front, rear, both sides, each wheel, cabin, dashboard mileage and visible defects. Add close-ups of damage with a wider image showing its location. Use the current vehicle, not library images, and avoid hiding condition with editing. Redact unrelated personal information in paperwork before sharing it through an agreed channel.
Compare an offer with the complete disposal arrangement
Ask whether a proposed price is provisional, what inspection conditions apply and who pays for movement. Confirm collection timing, documentation, any agreed deductions and payment arrangements in writing. A headline offer alone does not describe the entire transaction. Trusted Motors considers enquiries individually and does not undertake to buy every vehicle.
Close the handover carefully
Confirm the buyer’s business details and the final agreement. Verify unexpected payment-instruction changes using a known telephone number. Confirm cleared funds through your own bank rather than relying on a screenshot. Keep a record of the keys, documents, mileage and condition at collection, and follow the applicable vehicle-transfer process.
Further information
Rules and individual circumstances can change. Check official guidance and obtain professional advice where needed.