How to Sell a Minivan With Transmission Problems
An owner who wants to sell a minivan that has transmission problems may have to be willing to accept a price that is below book value. The book value is how many buyers and sellers determine the fair price for a vehicle. Since the owner has a minivan that is not in good condition, a buyer will want to pay less than the fair market price of the van.
- Take your minivan to a transmission specialist to see how much the repairs will cost. A buyer will want an estimate of the repair costs before making you an offer on your van. Once you know the cost of the transmission repairs, decide if you want to have the work done before trying to sell the vehicle.
- Determine the book value of your minivan to set the asking price. Use a search engine to help you find the value of your van. Look for the “Retail” book value, then subtract the cost of the transmission repairs to arrive at the asking price.
- Advertise your minivan for sale. Place an ad in the classified section of your local newspaper that lists the asking price. Also put in the ad that the van has transmission problems, so you do not waste time taking calls from buyers who may not make you an offer once they find out the van needs work.
- Sell your minivan at an auto auction if you do not receive any acceptable offers from private buyers. Contact an auction in your area to find out the procedure for including your van in the next auction. Set a minimum price for the minivan and see if any bidders come close to your asking price.
- Lower your asking price if you are still unable to find any buyers for your minivan. You may want to consider fixing the transmission if you cannot get your asking price. You can also try selling the vehicle to a used car lot or wholesaler, if you are willing to accept a price that is below the book value.