Used car sellers lose out on thousands by forgetting to include this

A has recommended that always include one item that can help to increase popularity and value.

With average prices on the falling, it is vital that drivers thinking about buying a new model do everything they can to boost the value of their old one.

Darren Miller from the vehicle buying service suggested that one of the most effective ways of increasing how much a used car is worth is by making sure its .

He explained: "A car's service history is a key factor in determining its resale value. Vehicels with a detailed service history, indicating regular maintenance at prescribed intervals, typically sell for more and reassure potential buyers about the vehicle's condition and reliability.

"This detailed record significantly boosts a car's market appeal by confirming its good condition."

A vehicle's service history is a collection of documents, such as previous MOT results and repair bills, that can help to show how a vehicle has been treated over the years.

Generally, vehicles that are advertised with a 'full service history' (sometimes referred to as 'FSH') are worth more, with buyers taking less of a risk on their next vehicle.

By spending a few minutes collecting any documents that relate to the vehicle or printing out invoices and MOT results, motorists could increase their car's value by up to thousands of pounds.

Darren warned that an incomplete or missing service history is often seen as a red flag to potential buyers, who have less of an understanding of how the car was treated over previous years.

He added: "Cars with incomplete service histories often raise concerns for prospective buyers, suggesting possible hidden issues from inconsistent maintenance.

"This uncertainty can reduce buyer interest and offers, ultimately lowering the vehicle's selling price. Maintaining a complete and up-to-date service record is key to preserving the car's value."

In addition to keeping historical documents about the car, Darren advised all drivers to stick to the servicing intervals recommended by the manufacturer to get a premium price when they want to sell their vehicle.

He continued: "Regular servicing is important even if you plan to sell your car soon. It keeps the car running smoothly, maintains fuel efficiency, and reduces wear and tear.

"Routine checks, such as those on brake fluid, tyre pressures, and light functions, are vital for safety and legality, helping to avoid fines. Thorough maintenance recorded in your vehicle's logbook can greatly increase your car's resale value."