Thousands of drivers are looking to the used car market for their next vehicle in a bid to save money as searches for 'used car dealer near me' have surged recently. But while finding a local dealer is the first step, walking onto the forecourt unprepared can be a costly mistake, leading to expensive repair bills or even fines.

Thankfully, to help you navigate the market and drive away with a reliable bargain, experts at Vertu Motors have shared this essential five-point checklist to improve your car ahead of a sale. A video guide, shared on TikTok recently by the motoring experts breaks down the key areas that add the most value, showing that small efforts can lead to a significantly higher return.

Vertu Motors said: "Want to get more money when it's time to sell your car? Here's how to boost its value."

Stay on top of your regular maintenance

The motoring experts insist you keep your service history up to date. Keeping an up-to-date service book is one of the most effective ways to build buyer trust and justify a higher asking price.

Mileage is a key indicator of a car's life, but a low number doesn't always mean a good deal. A car with high mileage that has been meticulously serviced can be a far better buy than a low-mileage model that's been neglected.

"Getting this right means you could bag a bargain and avoid a vehicle plagued with expensive wear-and-tear issues," added Vertu Motors.

Giving it a proper clean

Ensuring your car looks brand new, even though it isn't, can be essential in selling your vehicle. The motoring experts added: "A proper clean can make a huge difference. First impressions matter. Fix up those scratches, swap out old matts, maybe even refresh the trim."

Check for mismatched paint colours or uneven panel gaps, which suggest a past accident. While a few scratches can be a useful bargaining tool to knock hundreds off the price.

"Small upgrades can make a big impact," added Vertu Motors. Modern touches and technology are bound to impress too.

Change your tyres, batteries and breaks

You do not need to be a certified mechanic to know whether a used car is worth the asking price, it is just a case of making some simple checks before purchasing. First, you want to check the engine for any leaks, as well as the oil level and condition of the head gasket.

It is important to check the tyres. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, and anything less could be a serious mistake. Driving with illegal tyres can land you with a crippling fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points per tyre.

Vertu Motors said: "Keep in mind that if you are shopping in a car dealership showroom, all these checks should already be done for you, and you should be offered a test drive as standard."

Check the smaller details

Some things may seem minor, but these are often the most important factors that should affect your decision when buying a used car. Things like a spare key, a locking wheel nut and foot mats are good indicators of how much a car has been cared for.

Not only is having a spare key and locking wheel nut convenient, it makes selling a car much easier down the line as buyers often want the assurance of a spare, and do not want to foot the costly bill of getting a replica.

Take good pictures of your car

To build buyers' trust, good pictures are essential. Vertu Motors said: "Presentation matters. Take bright, clear pictures and be honest in your listing. It builds credibility and save time."