Auto Trader NZ
Published 16 May 2025
Looking to sell your car? How you list it online can make or break the sale, and directly affect how much you walk away with. When using Autotrader, a well-crafted listing can help you sell faster and for more money.
Here are the top tips to nail your car listing:
1. Use a Strong, Clear Title
Your title is the first thing buyers see, so make it count. When listing, make sure all the car details are entered and correct.
Top Tip: make sure the year, make, model, variant, doors, and engine are correct
2. Take High-Quality Photos
Photos make or break your listing. Think of them as your car’s CV.
📸 Take at least 10–15 clear photos, including:
- Front, rear, both sides
- Interior (dashboard, seats, boot)
- Engine bay
- Odometer
- Any damage (be honest!)
Photo tips:
- Use natural light
- Avoid cluttered backgrounds
- Clean your car before taking pics
See more on how to take the best photos of your car.
3. Write a Clear, Honest Description
Your goal is to build trust and interest. Include:
- Make, model, year
- Fuel type (Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid, EV)
- WOF and rego status
- Service history
- Any recent repairs or upgrades
- Known issues (buyers appreciate honesty)
Example snippet:
“Selling our reliable 2015 Toyota Corolla GX. 1 NZ owner, always serviced on time, 115,000 km. Recently replaced tyres and battery. No accidents. WOF until Jan 2026.”
4. Highlight What Makes Your Car Stand Out
If your car has any extras or unique features, shout about them.
🔧 Features to mention:
- Reversing camera
- Bluetooth / Apple CarPlay
- Tow bar
- Roof racks
- New tyres
- Leather seats
- Hybrid efficiency
Even small upgrades can justify a higher price if presented well.
Top Tip: Using a premium listing can bring in over 4 X more listing views!
5. Be Honest About Flaws
Trying to hide damage or faults can backfire. Buyers appreciate transparency.
If there’s a scratch, a worn tire, or a noisy AC, mention it upfront. Buyers will respect your honesty and be more willing to work with you.
Top Tip: Honest sellers are more likely to close a sale when a buyer come to view.
6. Set a Smart Asking Price
Check what similar cars are listed and selling for in NZ:
- Search on Auto Trader for similar vehicles and see what they are selling for.
- Consider mileage, location, and season (SUVs sell well in winter!)
Top Tip:✅ Price slightly above your minimum to allow room for negotiation.
7. Respond Quickly to Enquiries
Once your listing is live, be ready:
- Respond promptly to messages
- Be polite and clear
- Have answers ready for common questions like “Is it still available?”, “What’s your lowest price?”, and “Can I view it this weekend?”
Top Tip: Reply to the interested buyer that day, if you leave it longer than a 24-hour window. There is a strong chance this buyer has gone elsewhere.
Ready to sell? List your car for FREE at the link below!
Final Thought
The better your listing, the better your chances of attracting serious buyers and getting the best price. Treat it like a sales pitch: be clear, honest, and detailed. With the right prep and a smart approach, you’ll be handing over the keys (and cashing in) in no time.
