10 Things to Avoid to Retain A Car’s Value

Like most car owners, you probably view your automobile as an extension of yourself. It's more than simply a means of transportation; it reflects your character and who you are. You take good care of it, making sure it's always shiny and clean, and you never hesitate to brag about how wonderful it is to anybody who will listen. (We certainly don't blame you!) But even if you're the proud owner of a shiny new set of wheels, there are still some things you should avoid doing if you want to retain its value down the road. Here are ten things to avoid if you don't want to see your car equity go down the drain.

Tip 01: Avoid Repairing Your Car by Yourself

While it may be tempting to save a few bucks here and there by fixing your car, this is generally not advised. If you are a licensed mechanic, you will cause more harm than good. Your vehicle's warranties will probably be voided, and its resale value will decrease. Leave auto repairs to the experts whenever possible.

Tip 02: Avoid Letting Your Car Get Dirty

Everyone can relate to the feeling of accomplishment when they finally clean their automobile after lying in the garage for months (or years). However, exposing your car to the elements can do serious damage. Things like bird droppings, tree sap, and salt can cause irreparable harm to your paint job. If you must park your car outside, invest in a good car cover.

Thing 03: Avoid Damage to The Wheels

Your wheels are one of the essential parts of your car. Not only do they help you get from Point A to Point B, but they also play a big role in the resale value of your vehicle. Avoid curbing your wheels and driving over potholes to keep them looking (and working) like new.

Thing 04: Avoid Smoking Cigarettes in Your Car

It's no secret that smoking makes your automobile smell bad. However, the issue goes beyond odor. The chemicals like nicotine in cigarette smoke combine with the components in the automobile, leaving a stench and stain that is nearly hard to remove. According to Kelley Blue Book, smoking inside your automobile might lower its total worth.

If you cannot quit, you're better off using substitutes while driving, such as patches, gum, lozenges, or e-cigarettes. Alternatively, you could always pull over and smoke.

Thing 05: Avoid Racking Up Too Many Miles

The more miles on your automobile, the less it will be worth. Most people already know this but might not think about its implications until they go to trade in or sell their vehicle. If you drive a lot for office or live far from civilization, this rule might not apply to you. But, if you have a shorter commute or live close to stores and restaurants, try sharing or carpooling, riding your bike, or taking public transportation when possible.

Thing 06: Avoid Holding onto Your Car for Too Long

If you're driving a new vehicle off the lot, it will depreciate by 20% as soon as you drive it away. You can expect to lose an additional 11% of its value in the first year. So, unless you're driving a rare or vintage car, it's generally not a good idea to keep your vehicle for more than four or five years.

Thing 07: Avoid Tinting Your Windows

Tinted windows can lessen the heat and glare; however, it also decreases the value of your car. Dark tinting, in particular, might reduce the value of your car and turn away some potential purchasers. Legality is another thing to think about. What is lawful where you live might not be legal where a potential buyer resides because state laws on tinting differ greatly.

Have a professional tint your windows if you choose to do so. Over time, tints frequently bubble and blister, which can also lower the value of your car.

Thing 08: Avoid Getting Dents, Rust, And Scratches

Cosmetic damage is one of the most crucial things to avoid if you want to save your car's value. Dents, rust, and scratches can age a vehicle quickly. You might not think that a small dent or scratch is a big deal, but over time they will add up and make your car look much older than it is.

To avoid this, be careful where you park and keep your car out of the elements as much as possible. If you get a dent or scratch, have it fixed as soon as possible so that it does not have a chance to spread or rust.

Thing 09: Avoid Making Aftermarket Modifications

Another thing to avoid if you want to retain your car's value is making aftermarket modifications. Things like installing a new stereo system, adding spoilers, or changing the wheels can decrease the value of your car. Many people dislike these modifications and prefer a more "stock" look. If you make any modifications, keep all the original parts so that you can put them back on if you ever decide to sell the car.

Thing 10: Avoid Ignoring Your Car's Interior

The final thing to avoid if you want to retain your car's value is neglecting the interior. Spilled drinks, cigarette burns, and pet hair can make your car's interior look dirty and unkempt. Be sure to vacuum and shampoo your car's interior regularly to keep it looking its best.

Conclusion:

So here you have it – ten things to avoid if you want to retain your car's value. Of course, this is not a full list, but it should give you a good starting point. If you take care of your car and avoid doing these things, you will be well on your way to retaining its value for years to come.

Want to take care of your car?

Brandon Honda, serving Lutz, FL, is pleased to provide you with the best possible Honda servicing. Our service advisers and Honda-trained technicians are ready to give you the expert care you require, thanks to their many years of combined expertise. 

Schedule your service today!