The average driver changes their car every few years, either because they want a newer, more feature-rich model or because they have a growing family to support and need more seats! This means that the market for quality used cars is flooded with current models, all of which are in good condition and still have a long lifespan.
If you’re looking to resell your car, there are things you can do to increase its value. Here are our top five tips for increasing your car’s resale value.
Keep A Complete Maintenance History
Just like a piece of art, one of the most important aspects of a quality used car is its provenance, in this case, its service history. The more complete your car’s service history is, the better, as it will show potential buyers that the vehicle has been well cared for and regularly maintained throughout its life. Gaps in service history can be problematic and immediately mean some loss of value. So, make sure you have all paperwork stamped by the dealer, especially during the warranty period.
Taking out an extended warranty on your car can also show potential buyers that you have valued the car and taken good care of it, even beyond the usual manufacturer’s warranty period.
Regular Car Maintenance
A clean car is attractive to potential buyers, so you should have your car cleaned inside and out on a regular basis. Waxing may be tedious, but it preserves the life of the paint (which can be severely damaged over time in very hot climates). Don’t forget to clean under the car as well – places like the wheel wells can accumulate a lot of mud and dirt, while a clean engine compartment also shows that you care about the heart of the car as well. If you have kids, covers on the seats can prevent sticky fingers from staining the fabric and devaluing the car.
Keep It Simple
It may seem counterintuitive, but a pimped-out car can actually devalue it in the marketplace. Alloy wheels and engine modifications may look and sound cool, but if you’re trying to sell it, they can turn off potential buyers. The same goes for paint – garish colors tend to distract customers, so stick to factory colors that blend in, not neon yellow patches or bright pink stripes!
If Something Goes Wrong, Fix It!
A burned-out light bulb might be fixed in five minutes, but if something isn’t working right on a vehicle, it will raise doubts in the buyer’s mind, and they’ll wonder, “What else is wrong with the car?” Make sure everything from the license plate lights to the glove box latch is working properly before listing your car for sale.
Sell Through a Dealership
Long gone are the days when dealerships offered you your car well below market value. These days, reputable dealers know that quality used cars are attractive to customers, and they’ll gladly buy your used car. Not only will you get a fair market value, but it’s much faster, so you don’t have to waste time and money on advertising. You also get cash right away, or if your car is in really good condition, you can use it as a trade-in for a newer model. Get your car regularly checked up by Gargash Auto. This inspection may prove to be the easiest and fastest way to get the best price for your car, and maybe get a newer model at the same time!
