Taking steps today to maintain your car’s value will reward you financially in the future if you decide to sell or trade it in. Automobiles depreciate at different rates, and are dependent upon many things such as: who manufactured it, how reliable it is, and how much demand there is to own one. As you can see these things are inherent and there is nothing you can do to change that. But there are many things you do have control over that can increase or decrease the value of your vehicle. The choice is yours.
Things that will increase value :)
Cleaning and waxing
Keep it clean, inside and out. Wash when needed to keep contaminants off of the paint. Vacuum and shampoo the interior as needed to keep it looking new.
Protect the paint by waxing as required. Water should bead up on the surface, if not, it’s time to wax.
Routine maintenance and records
Maintaining your car as stated in the owner’s manual and keeping detailed records will always increase the value of a used car.
Drive less
Low miles will increase value, having miles in excess of 15,000 per year will surely decrease the value.
Things that will decrease value :(
Eating in your car
Your car isn’t a restaurant, eating and drinking will lead to stains and odors that can’t be removed.
Accidents
Drive safely, damage to your car, even if repaired correctly, will lower its value.
Smoking in your car
Besides burn holes in the interior, the smoke odor is almost impossible to remove completely. This is a sure turn-off to a prospective buyer who doesn’t smoke.
Pets in your car
The most common travel companions are dogs. But they can scratch interior surfaces, rip upholstery, leave unpleasant odors, and shed hair, which is extremely difficult to remove from carpet.
I’ve always taken very good care of the cars, trucks, boats, and motorcycles I have owned. They always sell for top market value. The extra work put into maintaining and taking care of them is well worth it.
Contact us with any questions or comments, we would love to hear from you.
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