Tips for getting more for your vehicle when you sell or trade it in.

When selling a vehicle or trading one in, you want the maximum price. Use these tips to maintain and increase your car’s value.

Tips for maintaining car resale value

The better a car is maintained, the more value it has for the next owner.

Regular service—for the engine, interior and exterior—helps preserve vehicle value. Keep up with routine service for oil changes, filter changes and other maintenance recommended by the manufacturer. Keep records so you can show a future buyer the car has been well maintained.

Clean up spills and stains as they happen. Stains are easier to remove when they’re fresh. Plus, keeping the car clean helps avoids offensive odors.

If pets ride in the car regularly, use a seat cover to protect upholstery. Many are machine washable and it’s easier toss a cover into the laundry than clean all the seams and crevices in car seats.

To preserve a car’s finish, parking in a garage offers the most protection. If you don’t have access to a garage, avoid parking under trees with sap that drips or branches or fruits that drop and could mar the car’s exterior.

Tips for increasing resale value

When it’s time to sell your car, evaluate the vehicle from a buyer’s point of view.

First impressions count and clean is more valuable than dirty. Vacuum and detail the interior. Shampoo the carpet and upholstery if needed. Consider new floor mats if yours are dingy. Wash and wax the exterior.

Repair minor scratches and dents. Light scratches to the clear coat can be removed with a rubbing compound. Deeper scratches that reach the paint will require a scratch repair kit and possibly touch-up paint before buffing it smooth.

Are the tires bald or nearly so? A set of new tires will appeal to buyers who don’t want the hassle or cost of replacing tires.

You may be used to minor problems but car buyers will see them as a reason to lower the value. If the repairs increase the value by more than they cost, do them.

Ready to buy your next car?

Selling a car often means buying a new one. With a Consumers auto loan you’ll get great loan rates and affordable payment options. Get pre-approved before you go car shopping.

 

All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions.