5 Tips to Retain your Vehicle’s Resale Value

The used car market is HOT right now, hotter than we’ve ever seen, and dealers are purchasing well-maintained vehicles at record high prices.

Here are 5 tips from the experts at Loudon Motors Ford to retain your vehicle’s value.

Keep these in mind as you drive so that you can get top dollar for your trade in or sell it for the most amount of money when the time comes!

1.) Clean it regularly

And we don’t just mean run it through the car wash. Our noses can often tell a story before our eyes can put two-and-two together. Cars and trucks with heavy smoke or pet odors immediately depreciate in value. Consider doing an interior detail, in addition to regular washing and waxing, to remove any stains and smells that could tank the value of your vehicle. It seems simple, but keeping your car clean inside and out can save you a lot of money when it’s time to sell.

2.) Don’t neglect regular maintenance

A well maintained vehicle is a happy vehicle, and regular maintenance works wonders when it comes to slowing depreciation. When you stay on top of necessary and manufacturer suggested repairs, you’re less likely to cause a potential buyer trouble down the road. Not only is it important to give your vehicle the TLC it needs, but it is important to keep meticulous records of what service was performed, who performed it, when and why it was performed.

Loudon Motors Ford has a state of the art service department that performs maintenance and repairs on all makes and models. We even have monthly service coupons to save you money. Whether you need an oil change, new tires, brakes or battery, you can trust the experts at Loudon’s. No need to even call — you can book any service appointment online here!

3.) Consider your mileage

Cars, trucks and SUVs all have varying life expectancies, and the lifetime of your vehicle can be shortened or extended based on the care it receives. As a rule of thumb, car owners can expect problems to arise more often after 200,000 miles. The closer your vehicle gets to that number, the less it is worth. We believe that vehicles are meant for driving! And you should buy a vehicle that you love to drive. But looking for ways to reduce your mileage year-over-year can definitely pay off in the end.

4.) Shield it from the elements

If you have access to a garage or car port, you’ll save your vehicle a beating from the outdoor elements. Acid raid, salt on the road, bird droppings and tree sap are just a few hazards that can cause major wear and tear. Direct sunlight can fade the outer surfaces of a car, while very cold temperatures can wreak havoc on a car’s engine components. Unfortunately, it is often other drivers who put dents, dings and scratches on your automobile. Consider where you park, whether you are at home or on the go, to preserve the longevity and value of your car.

4.) Keep modifications to a minimum

You might think that putting in an after-market sound system or attaching a spoiler to your car would add value, but it could create the opposite effect. Not all buyers are willing to pay a premium for these kinds of modifications. And if you want your vehicle to get noticed in a good way, be sure to take the time to remove those bumper stickers before you start the selling or trade in process.

However, having a reputable dealer add parts and accessories ordered directly from the manufacturer can actually improve your car’s resale value in many cases. Get in touch with our knowledgeable parts department to learn more about Ford OEM parts and accessories. It is always in your best interest to do research on your vehicle’s specific model and trim level to see if those additions are a good investment.

Interested to see what your car is worth?

We’re always looking for quality, pre-owned cars, trucks and SUVs! Check out our exclusive Sell To Loudon Tool to get an idea of what your vehicle is worth. This tool will give you estimates based upon trade in value, out right selling, and selling to a private party. Use this information to make an informed decision when it comes time to say goodbye to your ride!