Key Takeaways:
- A little planning may help to get a better return on your automobile.
- Dents, scratches, and other blemishes can depreciate a vehicle’s resale value.
- Additionally, driving safely may help keep your automobile’s value high over time.
- Premium models and SUVs tend to retain their value high.
- White or silver colors have better resale value.
- Avoid rusting by regularly washing and waxing your car.
- Be sure to keep up with scheduled tune-ups to maintain the longevity of your car.
- Mike Patton Auto Group offers car maintenance and repair services to customers in Hogansville, GA, and the surrounding areas.
It’s no secret that maintaining your car in good condition can help to retain its resale value down the line. But where to start – especially when it comes to those little details that can make a big difference. Mike Patton Auto Group has put together a list of fourteen tips for you to follow to ensure your car holds its value and doesn’t end up on the chopping block prematurely. Keep reading for all the info!
14 Tips for Retaining Your Car’s Resale Value
Follow these fourteen suggestions to get the highest refund when selling your automobile.
1. Regular Cleaning
Making a habit of frequent car cleaning from the inside out is essential to retain its resale value. It will protect the finish from damage caused by dirt, pollen, and other debris. Additionally, be sure to wash off any salt or chemicals that could potentially corrode the bodywork.
2. Avoid Dings and Scratches
Another way to keep your car looking new is to avoid those pesky little dings and scratches. Park it in well-lit areas and away from trees, bushes, and other potential hazards. And if you find yourself with a minor blemish on your paintwork, be sure to touch it up as soon as possible – otherwise, it could rust or lead to further damage down the line.
3. Regular Car Servicing
Regular car servicing is also essential. It means regularly checking the oil, tire pressure, and other fluid levels. It will help prevent breakdowns and ensure that your car runs as efficiently as possible, saving you money in the long run.
4. Avoid Accidents
Of course, avoiding accidents is one of the best ways to retain your car’s resale value. Drive carefully and be mindful of your surroundings. If you have an accident, make sure you get it repaired professionally, so there’s no lasting damage.
5. Choose the Right Model
When buying a vehicle, please choose a model with a solid reputation for keeping its value. Some models have much demand on the market and retain their value better than others, so it’s worth doing your homework before purchasing. In general, premium automobiles and SUVs tend to keep their weight better than economy cars.
6. Don’t Modify Your Car
To retain your car’s resale value, it’s best to avoid any modification. It includes adding aftermarket parts or painting the exterior. These modifications can lower your car’s resale value, so try not to do them if possible.
Choosing carefully while customizing your car is critical since some modifications may lower the value of your automobile. Installing a raucous music system or adding massive spoilers, for example, may make your vehicle less appealing to potential purchasers searching for a quieter car.
7. Maintain Your Car Records
Buyers will likely pay more for your car if you provide routine maintenance and repair records. These documents will illustrate to potential buyers how well you have treated the vehicle, making it easier for them to trust that the car has been taken care of.
Knowing the car’s history is crucial when selling your used vehicle. It covers things like whether it has ever been in an accident or if any mechanical problems need to be addressed. Although Carfax covers that aspect, you should have your own history in the form of receipts & cards to better corroborate your service records. The more information you have about your automobile’s past, the easier it will be to sell it at a higher price.
8. Avoid Rust
Rust slowly eats away any vehicle’s exterior and interior over time. Therefore, take precautionary measures to avoid rust and its destructive effects. If you live in a cold area with harsh winters, wash your car regularly to remove salt deposits that may cause rust.
You can also undercoat your vehicle with a rust-proof spray to prevent salt deposits from accumulating on the frame and underside of the quarter panels and fenders. People can also purchase commercial jets that protect their automobiles throughout the year.
9. Drive Carefully
The way you handle your car on the road has a direct effect on its worth. By driving smoothly, without quick starts and stops or hard corners, you can make your car’s engine and brakes last longer. It will keep its resale value high. In addition, careful driving prevents accidents, which often substantially damage a vehicle and devalue it instantly.
Also, check out our blog on safe driving in torrential rain to protect your car from water damage.
10. Choose Your Color Carefully
If you’re trying to pick a color for your new car that will help retain its value, stick with white or silver. Popular colors tend to hold their value better than other colors, like red or yellow.
11. Get Regular Inspections
Regular maintenance is vital to keep your car’s value high, but another way to do this is by getting regular inspections. It means taking your vehicle in for a checkup every few months to ensure everything is working correctly. You’ll also save money over time by catching any potential problems early on.
12. Store It Properly
If you don’t plan on driving your car for a while, store it properly to retain its resale value. It means keeping it in a garage or covered parking spot as much as possible because exposure to the elements can cause damage that will reduce the value of your vehicle.
13. Don’t Smoke
If you smoke, avoid smoking in your car since the smoke may discolor the upholstery and leave a distinct odor. If you must smoke in your automobile, open the windows before shutting them to allow the smoke to go out.
14. Sell It at the Right Time
Timing is crucial to receive the optimal amount of money for your car. Automobiles tend to devalue rapidly in the initial years after purchase, so selling sooner rather than later will likely result in a better return.
Need Car Maintenance Services in Hogansville, GA? No Problem!
At Mike Patton Auto Group, serving Hogansville, GA, we know your time is essential. That’s why we offer online scheduling for our car maintenance services. Plus, we’re qualified and experienced in servicing all vehicle makes and models. So, don’t hesitate to contact us today or browse our website to learn more about what we can do for you!
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