There may come a time when you must sell or trade in your vehicle so that you can switch to a newer model. When this time comes, you’ll want to get as much money from our old vehicle as you can to put toward the new one. With this in mind, we’ve made a guide on how to increase the value of your car.
1. Maintain It
One of the best things you can do for yourself as well as for your car’s future owner is to keep up on maintenance. The more wear and tear your car sustains, the more its value will drop. Therefore, it’s essential that you continuously maintain the integrity of your car. This includes regularly changing the fluids, replacing parts as needed, and taking the vehicle to the mechanic if you suspect anything is amiss.
2. Clean It
Both the cleanliness and appearance of your car are extremely important. You should regularly clean the inside as well as the outside of your car regularly. This not only keeps our car looking nice, but also helps prevent unnecessary damage due to the environment. For example, allowing outside elements such as road salt to eat into the structure of your vehicle can cause rust and corrosion.
3. Don’t Skimp on Parts
When you replace parts with generic ones, you lessen the value of your car. For example, if you’re replacing your wheels, it’s better to source OEM replacements as opposed to a set that can be used on any model of vehicle.
4. Document Everything
The more proof you have of your car’s history, the better. You should document every time you bring in your car for repairs, replace its parts, or update its body. Keep any receipts you receive as well as the vehicle’s original paperwork.
5. Mind the Weather
Detrimental weather conditionals can shorten the lifespan of your car if you don’t take the correct preventative measures. Try to keep your car in a garage in intensely hot or cold weather. You should also be sure to adjust your driving techniques as the weather changes.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.