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Arrange a mechanical service. Service should include:

Ensure that all tyres are inflated to the correct pressure - including the spare in the boot! If you are using nitrogen then only top up using nitrogen [defined by a red valve cap] and do not use the standard air at a Service Station.

Use an engine bay cleaner followed by a low-volume high-pressure water spray to thoroughly clean the engine compartment. Make sure that you do not direct the water into electronic components or electric connections, fuse boxes, etc. Run the engine immediately following the cleaning and preferably drive for at least 20 kms. Don't forget to clean the engine bay surrounds, the firewall, and the under-surface of the bonnet.

If the under-surface of the vehicle is dirty or muddy beyond the "norm" then use the facilities of the nearest commercial car-wash to pressure-clean the underbody.

If you have adhesive vinyl signage (or adhesive stickers) on your car carefully remove them so that the underlying paint is not scratched or damaged. The use of hot air from a hairdryer is often beneficial. Be careful using a thumbnail to lift the adhesive edge as even this can cause scratching. Use a light cutting-back polish on the areas under the sticker as the paint may have experienced a slight colour change due to the chemical reaction with the adhesive. There may even be a noticeable "bleaching" zone around the signage which will need to be gently and carefully cut back to blend with the remaining paintwork.

Thoroughly wash, dry, and polish the vehicle. Include all door openings and door edges. Make sure that there is no "carry-over" polish dust on the outer glass surfaces of the windows and that they are clean and buffed,

If the windscreen wipers "smear" the screen or are badly deteriorated then insert replacement rubbers. These can usually be purchased at any motor "supermarket" and are cheap to buy. Don't be talked into buying replacement holders or arms. They can cost the earth!

Take great care to thoroughly clean the wheels. Make sure that all brake pad dust is removed - especially with alloy wheels. Clean the tyres with a quality cleaner, then dry with a soft clean cloth. Preferably do not use tyre "paint" as this can cheapen the vehicle's appearance.

Vacuum the interior, including under all seats and the surface of the upholstery. Remove any litter, especially from the rear-base of seats, holding pockets, and cigarette trays. Seats can also be cleaned using an upholstery cleaner appropriate to the materials present.

If you're a smoker pay particular attention to the ash trays and ensure that the vehicle is well ventilated and deodorised. This is essential if you wish to sell the vehicle to a non-smoker!

Ensure that there are no damp spots in the interior.

Clean all dash surfaces with a clean moist rag and wipe with a suitable "surface restorer" if needed.

Clean all interior glass surfaces including sun-roof if present.

Remove all non-standard items from the boot. Ensure supplied tool kit, jack, and spare wheel are present. Thoroughly clean the boot interior and ensure there is nothing to squeak or rattle.

If you have added "extras" to the vehicle it will help to provide a written list and evidence, particularly if these modifications or additions can not be easily seen or detected.

If you keep a record of services and repairs/replacements (even fuel usage) make sure these are available for viewing by a buyer. With newer vehicles the owner's Manual and Service Logbook are essential. Older vehicles will benefit from a written record of replacements or repairs, including dates carried out.

Special vehicles, particularly high-performance, may be provided with certification. It is important to provide this for inspection by a potential buyer. If your vehicle has a monetary value because of a specific "history" then evidence of this is essential.

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