Used car sellers could be forced to splash out £200 to secure sales of their second-hand petrol or diesel vehicle if they fail to do one thing before putting it on the market, warns specialists.

Cleaning a car or keeping it in a well-preserved condition could be vital with potential buyers likely to judge a vehicle on first impressions.

A used car which is in gleaming condition is more likely to be snapped up than a vehicle which is a bit battered around the edges.

Motorists should regularly clean and maintain their vehicle to preserve its value through their ownership, making it easier when it comes to selling the model.

However, those who have let things go will have to splash out for professional detailing to avoid being left behind.

Steven Edwards, editor at second-hand marketplace MOTORS, stressed those who java “overlooked” cleaning will have to pay out more.

He explained: “A gleaming, showroom-ready motor will give buyers that new car feeling and demonstrate that your vehicle has been well maintained, increasing the price potential buyers are willing to pay.

“Before putting your car up for sale, give its interior and exterior (including wheels) a good spruce with professional detailing or, if you plan to tackle the job yourself, car-specific cleaning products.

“Make sure to double-check hidden areas like under seats, doors and glove compartments to remove any of your personal belongings and lingering bits of rubbish.

"While buyers know they’re purchasing a used car no one wants to buy a vehicle that looks like it’s still being used by someone else.

“With car detailing costing between £80 to £200 on average, you can expect to lose out on this amount at the very least should you overlook the importance of thoroughly cleaning your car before listing it.”

BookMyGarage, the leading online comparison site for service and repairs, claimed motorists had to wait for ideal conditions to get started.

They warned cleaning a car on a hot day isn’t the best option as sunlight can dry soap before it can be wiped down, leading to streaks on the bodywork.

They also stress it is better to wait until any wet weather has cleared so that water spots can also be removed quickly.