Devoted to the auto industry – builders to enthusiasts

America Online was the first e-mail provider for the masses, and I've had an AOL account for about 20 years. In its early years, I contributed often to Bicycling Online via its partnership with AOL.

In its various configurations and as other providers have become more en vogue, I've maintained the same AOL account, but I use it infrequently.

In recent months, however, I've returned to AOL for one specific particular reason — its automotive content.

New car reviews, industry news, expert analysis, advice — it's all there.

Plenty of other car site and blogs (including Automill.com) provide great content But AOL is big is on lists and its descriptions are geared toward the everyday car driver, not automotive experts.

In one recent article, author Christopher Neigher writes and informatiive piece on tips for selling a used car.

Here are the five tips and an author's comment for each tip:

1.Clean up your car, both inside and out.

The car needs to look good (inside and out) and it should even smell good, or at least not smell bad. Think of it this way: People are trying to visualize your car as their car.

2. Get all the official paperwork organized.

Contact your state's DMV or hop onto their Web site to find out exactly what you'll need to switch everything over legally.

3. Prove that you took good care of the car.

f you have documentation of major and minor repairs on the vehicle, you can prove two things to potential buyers: The vehicle they're considering purchasing has been properly maintained, and documented maintenance usually means less money for repairs later.

4. Watch how you drive, this won't be your car much longer.

If you're advertising your car while you're driving it around town you should be mindful of how you're driving. If a potential buyer sees you cut someone off, drive erratically or simply drive to fast, they may be less likely to call.

5. Be honest.

Know what your car is worth as well and what you're willing to sell it for. In some cases, the buyer may want to take the car to his mechanic to have it checked out. Don't take this as an insult; most people don't like making a big purchase without an expert opinion.

What do Automill.com readers think about this post?

To read new car reviews, visit my site, www.theweeklydriver.com.