How to Maintain Your Car’s Resale Value

February 13th, 2024 by

Earning money from selling your used car at Hebert's Town and Country Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Shreveport, LA

When you are about to sell your car, it’s a little too late to think about resale value! Retaining resale value can be easy, but it requires some forethought. But never fear — Hebert’s Town and Country Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Shreveport, Louisiana, has your back! If you want to ensure that your vehicle reaches its highest resale value, check out the following tips on how to retain car value.

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First and foremost, it’s important to keep your car clean. Spills, stains, and lingering smells can all negatively impact the car’s value. Never smoke in your vehicle, and avoid leaving food in it for extended periods of time. Regularly cleaning the interior of your car (or having your car detailed) will go a long way towards keeping it looking like new.

Additionally, you should always park your car in a garage or under a covering if at all possible. This simple step will help protect against damaging weather and temperatures. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat, cold or moisture can cause some serious damage to your engine, exterior paint, and more. If you live in an area with a harsh climate, it’s critical to consider where you park your car. 

Regular maintenance is also crucial in maintaining your car’s resale value. Keeping up with routine service helps prevent costly repairs and keeps things running smoothly. Keeping detailed records of your car’s maintenance can also give you more leverage when it comes time to sell.

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Be mindful of mileage. Mileage is a huge factor when determining a used vehicle’s value. Of course you should drive your car — that’s what it’s made for! However, keeping an eye on the odometer in relation to when you want to sell your car may earn you some extra cash. Be mindful of taking lengthy road trips or unnecessary commutes.

If maintaining a peak resale value is important to you, it’s best to avoid niche aesthetics or modifications to your car. Anything that makes your car too unique may make it less appealing to potential buyers. Keeping your car close to its original form is the best way to maintain value. Stay away from unusual colors, personalized decals, and aftermarket parts and accessories.

Finally, owning your car for at least a few years before selling it can help you get the most bang for your buck. Think about it — would you be suspicious if someone was selling their car after only a few months? Not only does being a longtime owner indicate that the vehicle is reliable and well-maintained, but the rate of deprecation slows significantly after 5-7 years of ownership. You’ll get more overall value from your vehicle if you wait to sell until reaching that benchmark.

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The make, model, and age of your vehicle are also important factors to consider when it comes to resale value. However, these tips will help you preserve car resale value no matter what you drive! 

Want to make the selling process as easy as possible? Visit us at Hebert’s Town and Country Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Shreveport, Louisiana. We’ll pay top dollar for your used car, and our experienced staff can help you find the perfect new ride.

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