We’ve stated before that a vehicle is the most significant investment one can make next to buying a home. That said, it’s important to take care of your investment to not only ensure its quality and drivability, but its resale value as well. Yes, we know you probably love your car, but are you going to drive that thing forever? Probably not. And unless you score an awesome Showcase from “The Price Is Right,” you’re going to trade in your vehicle eventually. Here are a few tips on how to get the most value from your car when the time comes:
DO Keep it Clean
Most people associate cleanliness with care, even mistakenly so at times. Regardless, the more time you spend keeping your car “picked up” — i.e. taking out the trash, vacuuming, washing the windows — the more you’ll receive when either selling or trading in your car. Extra points if you regularly wash and wax your vehicle!
DON’T Customize Your Ride!
It can be tempting to make your vehicle…well…more “you,” but if you want to get the most out of your car when you sell it, studies have shown you should back off. Customizing your car vehicle can actually decrease its value if you go too crazy. However, if you MUST change something, stick to the wheels or the stereo system, as these parts can be easily put back in when it’s time to sell/trade in. Our mechanics will tell you this can improve your car’s resell value.
DO Follow the Maintenance Schedule (and keep the receipts!)
Not only is this the best way to save money in the long run, but it will show you’ve done all you can to take care of your vehicle. Imagine this situation: when you’re selling your car and a potential buyer asks about a certain part or repair, BOOM: you’ve got the proof right there! If you don’t have a preventive maintenance plan, stop by our auto repair shop to get one set up today!
DON’T Crash!
Easier said than done, right? Occasionally it’s impossible to predict or avoid accidents, but sometimes even the smallest dings and dents will stay with you, decreasing the value of your car when you resell it. We don’t have any advice further than what you already know. Go the speed limit, look both ways, come to complete stops…you know what to do. Should you get in an accident, however, talk to our mechanics about what you can do to get your car back to what it was.
These tips barely scratch the surface when it comes to retaining your car’s value. If you need help, stop by our auto repair shop in American Fork, World Class Auto Repair, for more advice!