So how do you guys deal with the defects in buying and selling a used car? I understand any scratch or dent that can be observed a few feet away are considered major defects. But what about those that cannot be easily observed unless your eye balls are less than 1 feet away. Would you just do not bother it granted it is a used car?

 

I'm not sure what you're asking. What do you mean by "deal with the defects"?
A scratch or dent is not a defect in my mind. It's a blemish or damage or part of the normal or abused wear and tear of a car. A defect to me would some sort of manufactures defect...

I'll take a stab at what you're driving at. If I was selling a car I'd get it in as good presentable condition as I could. I'd buff out as best I could any scratches etc. Mind you - most vehicles on the used market are in poor condition to my standards so if I were looking at a used car that had swirls and some minor scratches that were only visible 1 foot away I'd know I could probably chase those out with a good buffing and it would not bother me - I'd in fact EXPECT to see those kind of blemishes on a used car and if I didn't then it may be an indication of how the car was cared for by the present owner.

I hope that answers your question?

 

You are right that I have used the word "defect" incorrectly. It should have been "damage" or "wearing".

 

You need to be more transparent about what you are asking. Are you asking what to disclose in an ad for selling your used car?

Definitely disclose known mechanical and any possible safety issues. To do otherwise is immoral and potentially illegal.

As for anything cosmetic, its true if you point out every little imperfection, it might keep some buyers away. On the other hand, some buyers will appreciate the openness, and realize you are not hidong anything.

You definitely don't want people coming to see a car, and being disappointed and being upset they bothered to come see it.

For a car like the S, buyers may be coming from far away. So don't make them waste a trip.

Instead of pointing out every little imperfection, you could instead explain what impression the car will give. Like it looks great from 5 feet away. Some minor wear and tear, what you'd expect for a car of this age and mileage. That sort of thing.

Pictures of course are worth 1k words...