Buying a car is a big step for most people. Whether you’ve got a brand-new supercar or a used, more family-friendly vehicle, it pays to take good care of it to maximize your investment. In this guide, we’ll share some simple ways to retain your car’s value and boost saleability.
Drive carefully
It may sound boring, especially if you’ve got a shiny new car with a powerful engine you’re eager to test out, but driving carefully is one of the most effective ways to maintain optimum vehicle condition. Being gentle when it comes to changing gears and braking can help to reduce the risk of wear and tear. It’s also beneficial to keep the vehicle clean, avoid driving too fast, going too close to other cars and steer clear of tight parking spaces. Being careful can prolong the lifespan of your car while also increasing saleability and lowering the risk of losing money when you sell.
Get issues checked out as early as possible
As car owners, we all dread paying for repairs. It’s no secret that costs can spiral quickly. This is why it’s so important to get minor problems checked out as early as possible. Minor faults can develop rapidly, causing more damage and increasing repair bills. If you have concerns, there are lights on the dashboard, or you’ve noticed abnormal sounds or odors, look for a local body shop. Read verified reviews, ask people you know for recommendations and compare quotes. The sooner you address small problems, the lower the risk of them turning into bigger issues that are more expensive to fix.
Check your service history is up to date
One of the first things prospective buyers will ask when they enquire about a car for sale is whether the service history is complete and up to date. Regular servicing is a simple, effective way to protect against problems and repairs and maintain high levels of performance and optimum safety. If you don’t service your vehicle in line with manufacturer recommendations, the risk of repairs will increase and the car won’t be as attractive to potential buyers.
Find a safe place to park
Keeping your vehicle in a safe place is an excellent way to protect against wear and tear, lower the risk of scratches and scrapes, and prolong its life expectancy. If you don’t have a garage at home, you could consider adding one or explore options, such as building a carport, converting a large shed or outbuilding or using a car cover. It’s particularly beneficial to find a secure, dry place to park during the winter months if you live in an area that experiences extreme weather.
When you buy a car, it’s understandable to want it to hold its value. If you’re keen to make as much money as possible when you sell, following simple steps can make a big difference. Examples include driving carefully, fixing minor issues promptly, checking your service history is up to date, and keeping your car in a safe, secure place.
