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JT Hughes
15-Oct-2024

How to Increase the Value of Your Car.

How to increase the value of your car

If you're wondering how to increase the value of your car, these five essential tips will help you boost your car’s resale price, whether you're trading it in or selling it privately.

5 Tips To Keep The Value of Your Car.

From maintaining a full-service history to selling at the right time, small actions can significantly impact your vehicle's value.

1- Keep a Full-Service History to Increase Your Car’s Value

Maintaining a comprehensive service history is one of the best ways to increase the value of your car.

Keep the value of your car

Buyers are willing to pay more for a car that has been regularly maintained and serviced, as it demonstrates care and reliability.

Did you know? According to the AA, cars with a full-service history can sell for up to 20% more than those without.

  • Keep Detailed Records: Document all services, including dates, repairs, and receipts, to showcase responsible ownership.
  • Follow Manufacturer Recommendations: Sticking to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule reassures buyers that the car is in top shape.
  • Use Reputable Garages: Make sure services are done at recognised garages or dealerships.
  • Organise Documents: Keep your service book, MOT records, and receipts in one easily accessible place to make it convenient for buyers to review.
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2. Avoid Modifications to Maximise Your Car’s Value

Avoiding unnecessary modifications is crucial if you want to maximise your car's value. 

Avoid car modfications to keep your car's value

While modifying your car can be fun, most buyers prefer vehicles in their original condition, as it provides peace of mind regarding reliability and insurance costs.

Why Modifications May Hurt Resale Value:

  • Market Appeal: Excessive modifications can reduce your buyer pool, as most buyers want a car that matches their preferences.
  • Legal & Insurance Issues: Illegal modifications like loud exhausts and overly tinted windows can complicate resale.
  • Quality Concerns: Aftermarket parts can raise concerns about the long-term reliability of the car.

Avoid These Illegal Modifications:

  • Under-glow lighting
  • Exhausts exceeding noise limits (above 74 decibels)
  • Window tints with less than 70% light transmission on front windows

Stick to Legal Modifications Such As:

  • Alloy wheels
  • Subtle spoilers and body kits (that don’t compromise safety)
  • Performance air filters (that don’t impact emissions) 

3. Clean Your Car Thoroughly to Increase Its Resale Value

A clean car is more appealing to potential buyers, giving the impression that it has been well-maintained.

Clean car before you sell

Steps to Clean Your Car Before Selling:

  • Interior: Remove personal items, vacuum thoroughly, and clean seats and upholstery with fabric or leather cleaner.
  • Exterior: Wash and polish the exterior, paying close attention to the wheels and undercarriage.
  • Detailing: If possible, consider professional detailing for a deeper clean. Did you know? A £50 professional valet could return two or three times that amount in resale value.
  • Engine Bay (Optional): Cleaning the engine bay is optional but can create a positive impression for buyers who inspect under the bonnet.

 4. Fix Minor Issues to Boost Buyer Confidence

Addressing small issues before listing your car for sale can have a significant impact on buyer confidence and the price you receive.

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Even minor faults can reduce your car’s appeal and encourage lower offers.

Common Issues to Fix:

  • Replace burnt-out lights.
  • Top up all fluids, including engine oil and coolant.
  • Touch-up paint on minor scratches or chips.
  • Replace worn-out windscreen wipers and ensure tyres meet legal tread depth requirements.
  • Fix squeaky brakes or any unusual noises

What Not to Fix:

  • Major mechanical issues: If repairs are too costly, it might be better to sell the car as-is rather than invest in significant repairs.
  • Cosmetic bodywork: Expensive cosmetic repairs may not add enough value to justify the cost unless the damage is very noticeable.

5. Sell in The Right Season 

When you sell your car can significantly impact the price you receive.

Sell your car at the right season

By timing your sale for when demand is higher, you can secure better offers.
 
 Best Times to Sell Your Car:

  • Early Spring: Convertibles and sporty cars tend to sell best in the spring when the weather improves.
  • Autumn & Winter: SUVs and 4x4s are in higher demand before the winter months.
  • Avoid December: The holiday season often sees fewer buyers as people focus on other expenses.

Conclusion

By following these five essential tips on how to increase the value of your car, you’ll be well-prepared to get the best possible deal when selling your vehicle.
Keep a detailed service history, avoid excessive modifications, maintain a clean and well-presented appearance, fix minor issues, and sell at the right time to maximise your car’s resale value.

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