How to Write a Used Car Ad
- 1). Gather vehicle information, such as the original window sticker (if you have it), title and any maintenance records. Make sure that your vehicle is ready for sale by locating the paperwork needed for selling, including the title and a lien release, if needed. Title information shows the vehicles VIN number, color and weight classification, which might come in handy if selling a truck. The original window sticker will break down all the options that came standard in the car and will also include any add-ons or special packages that the car has.
- 2). Determine what other vehicles in the area are selling for and what condition the vehicles are in. If you find that you have lower-than-average miles on your car, you should advertise it. You may also find that your vehicle is an uncommon color, has hard-to-get options or is in better body shape than others. These should not only become useful selling tools but should also give you a good idea of what price is fair for your vehicle.
- 3). Begin the ad or header with the year, make and model information. You may put in something unique about your vehicle after the initial description based on what information you gathered when you reviewed other similar vehicles for sale. State that the vehicle is 4x4 (four-wheel drive) or AWD (all-wheel drive) if this a selling point. "Low miles," rare color," "dealer maintained," "excellent condition" and "original owner" are all positive statements that will draw reader attention. You may also put the price in the header if you'd like.
- 4). Continue throughout the body of the ad explaining the important mechanical facts and features that your vehicle has. State the specific model information, engine size and transmission information (manual or automatic), including how many speeds the transmission has. Next, state features, such as alloy wheels, sunroof, stereo information, leather and heated seats.
- 5). Describe the overall mechanical condition of the vehicle. Use terms like "new brakes," "tires replaced within last 5,000 miles" and "all service records available," where applicable. Be honest. If your vehicle needs work, this is a good area to state so.
- 6). Add pictures to your used car advertisement. This is very important, as many people will skip over an ad without pictures. Make sure the vehicle is clean before taking pictures. The more pictures you can include, the more interest you will gain from shoppers.
