How to Write an Ad to Sell a Vehicle

1. List the basic features of your car, and, if necessary, search online sources to obtain your vehicle's specifications. AutoTrader reminds you to list information, such as the vehicle's year, make, model and whether or not you are the original owner, and then add more details.
2. Review the car owner's manual or obtain additional information from Internet sites to verify details about the car. Websites have information about specific interior and exterior features and mechanical details about your model.
3. Prepare the first draft of your ad. Write down the correct make, year, model, sub model and color. Be sure you have the correct sub model, especially if it's not mounted on the car's body. For example, Mercedes-Benz, 1992, 300E, 2.6, Gold. The sub model for this car is 2.6.
4. Access the website for your car's make and model to find the exact name of the color. If the name of your car's color is unrecognizable, make a parenthetical note with a common name of a color. For instance, the Mercedes color Metallic Capri Blue can be described as 'Navy blue' in parentheses. Note the interior color as well.
5. Revise your draft to add more basic information and details about your car. Include the current mileage, condition and how long you have owned it. Use words and phrases such as 'excellent,' 'pristine,' 'needs body work' or 'transmission needed' to describe the condition of your car. Be specific and honest in your ad.
6. State why you're selling the vehicle. If it's true, assure buyers that you're not selling the car because there's something wrong with it. If there is something wrong, indicate this where you describe the car's condition.
7. Add something that appeals to the personal side of a business transaction. If spring is around the corner and you're selling a convertible, mention that it's fun for sunny days. If it's an SUV in the winter, describe how well the four-wheel drive handles icy roads.
8. State your asking price for the car. If you are willing to negotiate, use the acronym 'OBO' after your price, as in '$4,000 OBO,' which indicates 'or best offer.' If you are not willing to negotiate the price of your car, state that the price is 'firm.'