Tips to Maximize the Resale Value of Your Car

If I had a dollar for each time I was asked the magical question, “How can I maximize the resale value of my car?” I would be a wealthy man. Given the number of variables involved, there just isn’t a simple answer and no hard and fast rule to follow. If however, you are considering selling or trading in your car at some point down the road the following car care tips will help to get the most out of your car while you're driving it while preserving its value until it's time to pass it on to a new owner.

1. Conduct scheduled car maintenance. Each car comes with an owner's manual that includes recommended vehicle maintenance. This auto servicing includes oil and filter changes, tire rotation, fluid changes, and much more. Stick with the manufacturer's recommended maintenance for your vehicle. 

2. Compile your vehicle's service history. Keep all service records no matter how minor. Having a complete history of your car's maintenance provides tremendous incentive to a potential buyer. 

3. Keep your car protected. Protect your car's exterior by avoiding parking under trees, especially in the spring and fall seasons. Sap, berries, leaves, nuts, and gifts from birdies can be nearly impossible to wash off and can ruin the clear coat if neglected. 

4. Apply some tender loving elbow grease. Hand wash and wax your car regularly. If you must take it to the car wash, brushless is better. Vacuum the interior, dust the dashboard, and clean the windows (especially if you have pets and kids riding with you). These measures will not only attract potential buyers when the time's right, but also increase the enjoyment of driving your car until the day you turn over the title.

5. No, not that slurpy! Protect your car's interior by saying "no" to syrupy and sticky drinks and messy crackers! Remaining guarded about food and drink in your car will prolong the life of its interior. Your loving attention to detail will pay off in the long run and will not go unnoticed by a potential buyer.

6. Watch your mileage. Drivers typically rack up somewhere between 20,000 and 25,000 kilometers per year. Although driving 20,000 kilometers annually may not be possible for everyone, the closer you are to the annual average the greater the resale value.

7. Consider "For Sale By Owner." Selling your car directly to a private individual can be financially rewarding. With a little research and access to the internet you could receive significantly more than what the dealership’s offering.

Although maintaining your car is a long term commitment, don't feel discouraged if you haven't been following these suggestions. After all, it's never too late to start. These precautions will not only help to preserve the value of your current car but, if followed, will help you take better care for your next vehicle.