Are you looking to sell your car soon? If so, you may be worried about how much money you’ll be able to get for it, mainly if your vehicle isn’t in the best shape. Here are crucial tips that will help you increase the resale value of your car—without spending a ton of time or money on repairs! Follow these steps and start improving your car’s resale value today!
- Detail the Exterior to Reflect Its Interior
Most people look at a car’s exterior when considering whether it fits their tastes. But they will also take notice of how well-maintained a vehicle is, and that can make all the difference in how much cash for cars you get from selling yours. You can go about detailing your car, but one way is to wash it often and wax it regularly; you should do both, regardless. Hiring an auto detailer will go a long way toward increasing your car’s resale value and longevity. It will give you peace of mind knowing that you have an immaculate vehicle on hand.
Professional detailing includes buffing out scratches and dents, cleaning windows inside and out, washing upholstery inside and out with leather cleaner if necessary, vacuuming carpets, cleaning door jams where dirt can collect over time—and more. You might be surprised by how dirty some areas of your car get without regular attention! However, using the right supplies and equipment will help protect your car’s finish while you clean it, which means fewer repairs down the road.
It would help if you used microfiber towels because they won’t scratch your paint, and you shouldn’t use anything harsh like ammonia-based cleaners. Instead, opt for a water-based cleaner because it won’t leave streaks behind. Use safe detailing chemicals such as car wash cleaners or car degreasers to remove tough stains. And don’t forget to remove any decals before you start cleaning, so they don’t come off during washing. Finally, waxing your car once every six months will keep it looking shiny and new, ultimately driving up its resale value if you decide to sell it later on down the line. And remember: you haven’t repaired any damage yet; now is an excellent time to fix those things before you sell your car!
- Protect Sensitive Areas
No matter how good of a driver you are, even if it’s just around town, chances are you’re going to bump into something. Although it might not seem like much when looking at that little scratch in your front bumper, those micro-abrasions add up. Minor scratches may not kill your resell value, but they will keep it from reaching its full potential. Keep them from doing so by taking good care of sensitive areas, including lights and mirrors.
It may seem obvious, but weather stripping can also help make a big difference. For example, beltlines and door edge weather stripping will keep water out and protect against rust and weather elements. Weather stripping will also prevent window rattles and keeps your doors from squeaking. Inside your car’s doors are especially vulnerable to rust and other damage. That’s why keeping them covered with quality door seals is so essential. However, every model is different, so it’s crucial to consult with an expert before making any changes or purchases.
Protecting the sensitive areas of your car from UV rays, debris, and other environmental damages should be a priority. You can use sun shades or window film to cover your windows or apply wax or sealant on the exterior of your car. With proper maintenance and regular upkeep, you’ll be able to maintain your vehicle’s shine for years to come. Also, if you regularly take your car off-road, side steps are an absolute must. Even the most careful driver can accidentally brush up against rocks or trees while driving. Side steps can help prevent damage from these accidents by providing a buffer between your Jeep and the terrain it drives on, thus maintaining and increasing the value of your ride.
Takeaway
With some foresight and care, you can quickly boost your car’s resale value by thousands. If you don’t, chances are it will cost more than you expect when trying to get rid of that ding down the road. So take care of what needs protecting now, so you don’t have any regrets later on. You may not be in a position to sell anytime soon. Still, if you are considering upgrading your ride or want to stick with something safer for the family, these two simple steps will ensure you get top dollar for your ride or even put a few extra bucks in your pocket when it comes time to upgrade. Best of luck and happy selling!
