When you sign those papers to get your vehicle, you’ve purchased an investment. You should be proud of this investment, and take care of it as it was most likely very expensive. However, it should also be in the back of your mind that you are probably not going to drive this car for the rest of your life. That said, it’s important for you to retain your vehicle’s resale value so when you do trade it in, you’ll get the most out of it. Here are a few tips from your local Corpus Christi Mechanic on retaining resale value:
Keep it Clean!
People associate cleanliness with care, especially when looking for a new vehicle. The more you keep up with your vehicle’s cleanliness—i.e. trash, windows, vacuuming—the more you’ll receive when either selling or trading in your vehicle. Your local Corpus Christi Auto Repair shop also suggests taking your vehicle through the car wash every two weeks!
DON’T Customize Your Ride!
Yeah, it can be tempting to make your vehicle more “you,” but if you truly want the best value for your car when you trade it in, your local Corpus Christi Car Repair facility suggests backing off. Reason being, customizing your vehicle can actually decrease its value if you go too crazy! If you absolutely MUST customize something, it is recommended that you change out either the wheels or the stereo. Make sure you keep the old parts, though, as it’s wise to put them back in when you want to sell the car.
DON’T Crash it!
Yeah, your local Corpus Christi Mechanic knows this is easier said than done, but it’s time you know the facts. A car crash will stay with your vehicle the rest of its existence, regardless of the repairs you’ve had on it. Ever heard of Carfax? Companies like these keep track of dings and fender benders, thus decreasing the value of your vehicle when it’s time to sell or trade it in. We know you know how to be safe—go the speed limit, come to complete stops, look both ways…you know the drill.
Follow the Maintenance Schedule—and Keep the Receipts!
Far and away, the best thing you can do to retain your vehicle’s value is to have a preventive maintenance plan at your reliable Corpus Christi TX Auto Repair shop. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it will show you’ve done everything you can to take care of vehicle while you’ve had it. Imagine this situation: a potential buyer asks about a certain repair on your vehicle, and BOOM: You’ve got the papers right there, cause you’ve kept your receipts for every visit!
If you want more tips on how to retain your vehicle’s value, don’t hesitate to talk to an ASE-Certified technician at a local Corpus Christi Car Repair shop like Dub’s Garage or call (361) 444-1355.