1. Describe symptoms, not a guessed diagnosis

“Engine failure” can mean anything from an electrical starting problem to serious internal damage. State what happened before the car stopped, whether the problem appeared suddenly and when it last drove normally.

If a garage has inspected the vehicle, copy the diagnosis or fault codes accurately. Do not present an assumption from a dashboard light or online forum as a confirmed fault.

2. Information that improves the valuation

A concise timeline is more useful than a long general description. Include the details you already know without repeatedly testing the car.

The location matters too. State whether the wheels turn, the steering unlocks and a transporter can reach the vehicle.

  • Does the engine crank and start?
  • Does it remain running or stop immediately?
  • Were there warning lights, overheating or loss of power?
  • Was there smoke, an unusual smell, noise or visible fluid?
  • Is there a garage report, fault code or recent repair invoice?
  • Where is the car parked and how can it be accessed?

3. Know when to stop trying to start it

If there is smoke, a strong fuel smell, substantial fluid loss, overheating or a harsh mechanical noise, switch the engine off and do not keep restarting it for a video or valuation.

Do not drive a car whose condition may be unsafe. Photos and the last observed symptoms are enough to begin an assessment, while collection can be planned for the car’s current condition.

4. Compare repair with an as-is offer

Consider diagnosis, parts, labour, transport, possible hidden damage and your time—not only the price of the first suspected component. A dismantled engine or incomplete repair can create extra cost and uncertainty.

Getting an offer for the present condition gives you a concrete alternative. It does not oblige you to sell, but it helps show whether repairing the vehicle is economically sensible.

5. Prepare photos, documents and access

Photograph the whole car, dashboard, engine bay from a safe position, visible leaks or damage and the route to the vehicle. Do not touch hot components or crawl beneath an insecure car.

Prepare the registration document, keys and any service information. Record the known symptoms or diagnosis in the sale contract, and state whether the car starts, rolls, brakes and can be put in neutral.