Value depreciation is inherent to automobiles. Due to wear and tear, the more a vehicle is used the quicker it loses its value. However, there are ways to slow the rate that your vehicle depreciates. Driving safely, regular maintenance, and generous care can go a long way to preserving the value of your vehicle over time. Read more to find out what you can do to maximize your resale value.
Drive safely
Driving Safely is the single most effective way to protect your vehicle’s value. Obviously, vehicle accidents are a quick way to decrease your vehicle’s worth, but poor operation can also cause significant damage to both internal and external components. Some common causes of damage caused by unsafe driving includes:
- Improper gear shifting/selection
- Overloading your vehicle
- Leaving your foot on the clutch pedal while driving
- Hitting the curb when parking
- Braking aggressively
- Hitting potholes
Improper clutch and transmission operation causes significant internal damage to your drive train, while overloading, curbing, braking, and potholes will greatly decrease the lifespan of wear items. These are just a few of many bad driving habits that may slowly be causing damage to you car. Consider researching proper driving techniques, or even taking a driving course to have an expert point out your bad habits. Proper operation can drastically preserve your vehicle’s value, and has the potential to save you thousands in repair costs.
Mechanical Maintenance
Unless it’s with a Hefeweizen, nobody wants a lemon. Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your vehicle running smooth and extending its lifespan. Regular oil changes are the most important maintenance point, but there are a number of components that need to be inspected and replaced regularly.
Keep records of all the vehicle’s maintenance and repairs for bonus points when you sell—there’s no better way to prove that you’re a considerate vehicle owner. Most vehicle warranties also include clauses that require strict adherence to maintenance intervals.So protect your investment, and take the time to perform maintenance.
Care & Repair
In addition to regular maintenance, try your best to treat your vehicle well. Park it indoors if possible, and keep it clean and waxed to prevent paint fading and body rust. Keeping a clean interior limits potential for stained carpets and prematurely worn upholstery.
When it comes to repairs, don’t procrastinate! Broken components are often inexpensive to repair, but can cause significant damage to the rest of the vehicle if they aren’t addressed promptly.
Follow these tips to increase the value of your vehicle, and earn thousands more when you resell. If you prefer leaving vehicle care to professionals, the expert service technicians at Go Auto Leduc’s Wash ‘N Go offer a wide range of services including maintenance, detailing, and mechanical repair. If you are planning to sell your vehicle, consider booking a free appraisal at any of our Go Auto Outlet locations; in Edmonton, Leduc, or Red Deer.