If you’re looking to maintain your car’s value, there are a few key things you can do. While it’s true that cars depreciate in value, there are things you can do to help slow that depreciation and help maintain your car’s value. Let’s look at the top tips for maintaining your car’s value.
Keep it Clean – The first tip is to keep it clean. A dirty car shows signs of neglect and will be worth less than a well-maintained one. Regularly washing and vacuuming your car will help keep it looking its best.
Repair Scratches and Dents – You should also avoid scratches and dents as much as possible. If you do incur scratches and dents, have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid allowing rust to form. Rust is much more costly to repair than the original scratches and dents.
Regularly Service Your Car – It’s also important to keep your car serviced regularly. A well-maintained engine is worth more than a neglected one. Make sure to change the oil and filters as prescribed by the manufacturer, and have any other necessary repairs done.
Keep Mileage Low – Cars with lower mileage are worth more at trade-in than cars with higher mileage. If you have a big road trip coming up, consider renting a vehicle for the trip to avoid putting that mileage (and wear and tear) on your vehicle.
Avoid Damage to the Wheels – We know those curbs seem to come up out of nowhere. However, damage to the wheels impacts your car’s value so do your best to avoid bumping those curbs and keep your wheels looking newer.
Use Floor Mats – Always use your floor mats. If you can get all-weather mats, even better. Protecting the carpeting on the floor helps maintain your resale value.
Headlight Restoration – Finally, consider headlight restoration. Cloudy or yellowed headlights can significantly lower your car’s value. A professional headlight restoration can make them look like new and increase the car’s resale value.
Even though cars depreciate in value, you should still think of your vehicle as an investment. By following these tips, you can maintain your car’s value and get the most out of your investment.