Build a complete vehicle preparation budget covering inspection, mechanical work, MOT, tyres, cosmetics, valeting, selling costs and contingency.
Written and reviewed by FlipTrack Editorial Team
Record evidence and cost for every relevant line
| Area | Check | Budget evidence |
|---|---|---|
| MOT and advisories | Current status, expiry, failures and recurring items | Test price plus written remedial estimate |
| Tyres and brakes | Tread, age, damage, discs, pads and warnings | Fitted prices for the correct specification |
| Engine and cooling | Leaks, fluids, warning lights, timing and service items | Diagnosis, parts and labour quote |
| Transmission and clutch | Operation, noises, judder and service history | Specialist diagnosis when symptoms exist |
| Steering and suspension | Play, noise, alignment and uneven tyre wear | Inspection and itemised quote |
| Electrical and emissions | Battery, lights, equipment, DPF or emissions warnings | Diagnostic evidence, not a guess |
Illustrative example using identified work
| Preparation item | Allowance |
|---|---|
| Inspection, history and diagnostics | £70 |
| Service and MOT | £180 |
| Two tyres fitted | £170 |
| Front brake work | £210 |
| Minor body and wheel correction | £190 |
| Valet and advertising | £95 |
| Contingency | £250 |
| Total preparation and selling allowance | £1,165 |
These numbers demonstrate the method and are not standard UK prices. Use current local quotes for the exact vehicle. Keep contingency separate so known work and remaining uncertainty stay visible.
Subtract the complete preparation allowance, other deal costs, contingency and required projected profit from a supported sale price. The result is the maximum purchase price. Recalculate whenever evidence or a quote changes.
What car preparation costs should I include?
Include inspection, checks, MOT work, servicing, tyres, brakes, repairs, cosmetics, valeting, advertising, transport and contingency.
How much contingency should I add?
Base it on age, evidence quality, fault complexity and downside. Undiagnosed major faults require diagnosis, not a larger guess.
Should preparation costs be included in ROI?
Yes. ROI should use total cost, including attributable preparation and selling expenditure.
When should I update the preparation budget?
Update it whenever an inspection, diagnosis, quote or completed job changes the expected total.
Create the preparation plan in FlipTrack, attach evidence, assign allowances and keep projected profit current as quotes and costs arrive.
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