There are a lot of ways you can decrease your car’s value without meaning to. Making modifications or neglecting repairs can have a major impact on how much your car is worth. Avoid these 10 things to help your car keep its value:
1. Smoking in the car:
Cigarette smoke is incredibly pungent and can linger long after you’ve smoked. Not only is it unpleasant for anyone who has to ride in your car, but it can also permanently damage the upholstery and interior trim.
2. Putting bumper stickers on car:
Bumper stickers may express your personality or show support for a cause, but they can also decrease the value of your car.
3. Making aftermarket modifications:
Aftermarket modifications are any changes that you make to your car that are not part of the original factory specifications. These can include things like painting the car or adding spoilers or other body modifications.
4. Tinting your windows:
Tinted windows may look cool and keep the sun out of your eyes, but they can also bubble and blister over time. Tint laws also vary by state and what’s legal in your state might not be legal in surrounding states, limiting resale potential.
5. Not keeping up with regular service:
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your car running properly and preventing expensive repairs down the road. Be sure to keep up with oil changes, tire rotations, and other scheduled servicing. Keep all of your receipts and records in a safe place so you can show potential buyers that you have taken good care of the car.
6. Putting too much mileage on it:
The more miles you put on your car, the lower its value will be. If you must drive long distances, try to carpool or rent a car when possible to keep the mileage down.
7. Letting the car build up dirt:
A clean car is more appealing to potential buyers than a dirty one. Be sure to wash and wax your car regularly to keep it looking its best. If you live in a cold climate, be sure to remove any salt or other road debris that could damage the paint.
8. Letting the interior become damaged:
The interior of your car is just as important as the exterior when it comes to resale value. Be careful not to spill food or drinks and keep the upholstery free of stains and tears.
9. Waiting too long to trade:
It’s generally best to trade in your car every few years if you want to get the most money for it. After a few years, cars start to lose their value quickly. If you wait too long to trade, you may not get as much money for your car as you could have.
10. Not getting scratches and dents repaired:
Scratches and dents can make your car look old and neglected. Be sure to repair any damage as soon as possible so it doesn’t affect the resale value of your car. Colors on Parade is your go-to resource for mobile scratch and dent repair that won’t break the bank and can often be completed in one day.
Many of these issues to avoid come down to simple neglect. Neglecting to keep up on your maintenance or neglecting to repair damages can severely impact your car’s value. Also making modifications is a big no if you want to maintain value. Now that you know what to avoid, you can help your car keep its value up until you’re ready to sell or trade.