A car’s resale value is determined by various factors, which mainly include its make and model, color (or the rarity of it), the vehicle’s history (of breakdowns and road mishaps), and its present condition. While most of these aspects are not alterable, one can always find ways to improve their car’s condition. There are a few other key tips that help one understand how to increase a car’s resale value.
Keep the car clean
The appearance of a car plays a major role in determining its resale value since it gives a first impression of its overall condition. This is why a simple way to prepare the car for sale and maximize its value is to wash it thoroughly and make it look shiny. After washing with soap and water, one can also consider waxing the vehicle’s exterior to protect its shine from further wear.
Along with the exterior, one would also need to keep the car’s interior clean since the vehicle will be looked at inside and out at the time of sale. A stained dashboard and dirty floors can leave a bad impression about the car’s condition, negatively affecting its resale value.
Repair cosmetic damages
As long as a car looks attractive, it will make a good first impression on the dealer or the buyer, which will help boost its value. So, any cosmetic damages that a car may have, such as dents or scratches on the exterior, would be among the first few things to fix before selling the car. This is also a simple way to make the vehicle look newer before selling.
Ensure regular maintenance
Moving on from the car’s appearance, one would need to shift their focus to its functioning and mechanical condition since it directly impacts the vehicle’s performance. So, for obvious reasons, an improper mechanical condition could have a worse impact on the car’s value. One of the simplest ways to improve a car’s mechanical and functional performance is to ensure regular maintenance. All car manufacturers suggest a maintenance or service schedule, which car owners can find in the manual. Sticking to this schedule and taking the car to the service station as recommended will ensure all car components are in good shape.
Even at the time of selling the vehicle, it is crucial to get it checked by a professional mechanic before approaching a dealer. The mechanic will be able to assess if there are any broken parts or underlying problems that need fixing. Getting a final mechanical assessment and required repairs is one of the easiest car maintenance tips to improve its resale value.
Drive carefully
Responsible and careful driving is something that one should practice all the time. But when planning to sell it, this tip can go a long way in preventing any further wear and tear of the components from improper usage. Some essential safe-driving practices that can help in this matter include avoiding potholes and uneven roads, limiting excessive use of accelerator and brake pedals (especially no rapid acceleration and sudden braking), and avoiding unnecessary revving up of the engine. Likewise, to prevent any damage to the paint and exterior, it is advisable to avoid parking or going through narrow spaces. These tips can help one get the highest possible price for their car.
Save the records of all repairs and maintenance
Since a car’s history greatly impacts its resale value, maintaining all its documents and records can help sellers. With adequate documentation and records, the current car owners will be able to present proof of the car having a clean history, meaning that the car has not been involved in any road mishaps, has not sustained flood damage, etc. Along with that, one will also be able to present details on the regular maintenance of the car, which will further help boost the car’s value before selling.
Keep the upholstery safe from pets
Keeping the interiors in good condition is also essential to maintain a good resale value of the car. So, when planning to sell a car, pet owners should keep its upholstery safe from pets. Scratches or stains caused by pets can severely ruin the car seats. To avoid such mishaps, consider holding pets carefully when traveling with them in the car.
Avoid eating or drinking in the car
Another tip to keep the upholstery clean and in good condition is to avoid activities such as eating and drinking in the car. No matter how careful one is with their food and drinks, there’s always a possibility of spillages. This can quickly stain seats, carpets, and upholstery and even lead to unpleasant odors. These potential long-term damages are best avoided to retain a good resale value of the car.
Avoid unnecessary modifications
Even though aftermarket modifications can improve a car’s performance, they are not always welcomed by all buyers. In some cases, upgrades, such as custom exhaust systems, lowered suspensions, or non-standard wheels, can turn away potential buyers who prefer a more original or factory-standard vehicle.
