Since the end of 2024, the average price of a used car has fallen by 4.7% making sellers have to work harder to secure good returns. Now, motorists are being urged to carry out one simple step before putting their vehicles on the market - a deep thorough interior clean. The task which was once seen as a bonus is now being called a "necessity" by those in the industry, who are claiming that a clean inside is the key to to achieving top market value.

According to the UK car buying platform, BigWantsYourCar.com, the appearance of a car as well as how it "feels" has the power to significantly impact how much a buyer is willing to pay, regardless of the mileage or how old it is. Yet the interior remains one of the "most overlooked" parts by those selling their cars.

A spokeperson for BigWantsYourCar.com said: "We've seen countless examples where two cars come in - same make, model, mileage - and the cleaner, better-presented vehicle fetches considerably more, sometimes by as much as £1,500 to £2,000. That difference often comes down to how it looks and smells when the door is opened."

According to the compnay buyers are no longer just persuaded to purchase a used car due to the technical details and service history, but now it is also about how the vehicle makes them feel.

An interior that is "clean" and "inviting" gives the impression that the car has been properly maintained and cared for. "Buyers want to picture themselves driving the car - not cleaning it. If they get in and find crumbs in the cup holders, mud on the floor mats, or pet hair on the seats, they're already mentally knocking money off the asking price.

"It sends the message that the car hasn't been looked after, even if it has," the spokeperson added.

Motorists are recommened to invest in a "light" valet service or taking time out to give the car a deep clean. The company also advised paying close attention to vacuuming the seats and floors, wiping down surfaces, removing personal items, and adding a neutral air freshener.

Whatever option is decided, one thing the experts emphasis is that spending a fortune on getting cars clean is not necessary, and they also highlighted that the same rules apply if you're selling the car online or part-ezchaning it at a dealership.

The extra attention to detail will allow sellers to justify the higher asking price while giving buyers assurance in the deal.