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What does mint condition mean?

I inherited my great-uncle’s car, which he rarely drove. I was going to list it as “very good” condition because there’s a fairly deep scratch on the back bumper, but my wife says I should list it as “mint condition” because the miles are so low and the interior—and rest of the exterior—is flawless. What does mint condition mean?

avatar
Rachel Rigolino · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Ah—this is quite a debatable topic! Purists might argue that mint means just off the assembly line new. However, unless you’re buying a brand new car from the dealer—or a car that was never driven—it would be difficult for any used car to meet that definition.
Here are some indications that a car is in mint or excellent condition:
  • Looks new; free of visible defects
  • No mechanical problems
  • Never been in accident or had body work done
  • Clean title
Only about 5% of vehicles can actually be classified as mint.
Here’s an idea: to avoid misleading any potential buyers, advertise the car as almost mint, and when posting photos, include a photograph of the scratched bumper. Chances are the scratch won’t take off too much from your selling price.
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