How to prepare a car for sale? Guide
In order to increase the chances of selling a used car, it is worth working on its appearance. We suggest how to do it.
Of course, a lot depends on the condition of the car. It is clear that on an old, badly damaged paintwork, the effect of a shiny, ideal body cannot be achieved, and a leaking engine without the help of a mechanic will not be transformed into a fully functional one without the help of a magician. . But in the case of a serviceable, but slightly dirty and running machine, the situation is much simpler.
First, the body
A characteristic feature of automotive paint is that over time it loses its luster and color. Changeable weather, sandy brushes at an automatic car wash, and inappropriate makeup are just some of the dangers lurking in a shiny body. The effect is such that after 3-4 years of intensive driving, even after washing, the car does not look as great as immediately after leaving the car dealership. However, a dull surface is easy to restore.
Paint Loss Repair – Check What You Can Repair Yourself
1. Glitter polish
In the case of younger vehicles, a simple light abrasive paste or lotion will usually suffice. Before polishing the car, of course, you need to thoroughly wash it, preferably with lukewarm water using a good shampoo. To avoid scratching the bodywork, we suggest washing off dust and sand with a high pressure cleaner or garden hose. Only then will you be able to deal with more stubborn dirt. It is best to clean them with a soft bristle brush. Thoroughly rinse the washed car body, and then remove water from it with a rubber squeegee. However, before polishing, the varnish should be thoroughly wiped off. Preferably leather suede.
We proceed to polishing the body prepared in this way. Rub the varnish with a layer of paste or milk with a soft cloth. A flannel diaper is perfect for this, which you can buy for a few zlotys in baby and baby stores. The method of polishing depends on the type of product, milk is usually immediately polished to a shine. In turn, we apply the paste on the body, but only after a while we polish it, removing the resulting layer of paste. When polishing the car body, be careful not to stain black, rubber and plastic parts with milk. The cost of the procedure is about PLN 10-15 for a paste and PLN 5-7 for a diaper. Good quality shampoo with wax - about PLN 15-20, brush with natural bristles - about PLN 20, leather suede - about PLN 25-30.
2. Polishing machine at the painter
If homemade varnish cannot be glossy, ask a varnisher for help. The latter, using a professional polishing paste and a grinder with a special, soft nozzle, will erase the matte layer. This procedure costs about 150-300 zł.
3. Black plastic
A relatively easy task, but with excellent effect, is also the maintenance of black, rubber and plastic body parts. Automotive stores have special sprays based on silicone and various types of oils that lubricate plastics. On a thoroughly washed and dried bumper, strip or sealant, it is enough to apply a thin layer of such a preparation, and then wipe it with a lint-free cloth. A package of such a spray, sufficient for the entire car, costs about PLN 15-25 (depending on the manufacturer).
