Many people don't realize that making automotive repairs to their car can significantly increase its value. I know that when I look for a used car or truck, I'm looking for one that is in good running condition.

Yes, there are those who are looking for cars that need repair, but those people are few and they are not willing to pay much for a car that needs repair. Most of these people are junk dealers who are selling parts off of used cars because they can bring more money by selling the parts that are in good condition.

To emphasize my point about a well maintained car bringing more money, all you have to do is look through the classifieds in your local newspaper or in online classifieds. Look at the prices of identical cars that are in good condition. Then check all of the prices of the identical cars that are in mediocre or run down condition.

A car that is less appealing to the eyes or ears will not bring much money, if any at all. It's hard enough to sell a car that is in good condition for what it is worth.

Not only is it hard to get the value out of a good running car that is appealing to the eyes, but the depreciation is also against you. A new car will depreciate as soon as you drive it off the lot. By the time you get home with a new car, the value has dropped a couple of thousand dollars.

After looking through the classifieds at the same type of cars and comparing the value, it will be easy to understand why a well maintained car will bring more money. This is extra money that can be put into a new car or a newer used car. It can be bought at a bargain which can give you an extremely low payment.

Oh, I almost forgot this point. A well maintained car will also sell faster than a mediocre car that is in need of minor repairs. Most people will not even consider looking at a car that is in need of repair. If you don't believe me, just try listing a car that needs repair and see who is interested.

To learn about what you can do to sell your car and pocket the money instead of giving it to a car dealer by trading, check out my website at www.how-to-sell-used-car.com