Should Seller Make Repairs Pointed Out By Buyer?

[CJ from Granite Bay, CA]

If you are selling a used car and the potential buyer wants your car inspected by their mechanic, at their expense. Should you make the repairs, which are normal wear and tear, prior to the sale of the auto that their mechanic pointed out? The car that is being sold is 10 years old, good exterior and paint, good to excellent interior, sound engine/transmission, mechanically sound, low mileage for the age of the auto and has many extras ie., custom wheels/tires, custom stereo and sound system.

What is your opinion?

[Dave C.]

That's a pretty interesting question CJ!! I have sold only one used car, and the guy's mechanic pointed out shot wheel bearings, and it needed new front rotors. I basically deducted the cost of repairs from the selling price. I suggest getting an estimate for the repairs from you mechanic, and negotiating this into the selling price. So in answer to your oringinal question, yes I would either have the repairs made, or take money off from the final selling price.

[Guess My Name]

You are under no obligation to repair anything. The buyer may want a price deduction but you can always negotiate like when buying a house. Negotiate on price or just wait for another buyer.

All depends on sell price and repair costs. I would not get it fix because he could leave you hanging, unless you get purchase agreement up front. Your best bet would be to reduce your sell price by some amount but not the full repair amount. Other wise I he could find all sorts of things wrong to the point where you owe him money to take it off your hands.

Remember to State "As Is"!

Used cars are just that used and problems are expected.

Good Luck!

[Don2000g]

Two very interesting perspectives. I would probably fall into Dave's mode of thinking though. If its something serious, then negotiate a bit but don't deduct the entire price for the part and or labor.