10 Ways to Hold Your Car's Value

All cars experience some level of depreciation over time, but there are steps you can take to reduce the impact. It is impossible to preserve a car's value completely but being mindful of key factors will help slow down the rate of depreciation. This guide provides the things to consider so you can retain the value of your car as much as possible. This will mean you get the best possible price when it’s time to sell your car or trade it in.

1. Regular Maintenance

Maintaining a comprehensive service history is a strong indicator of how well a car has been cared for. Regular servicing and maintenance, especially for critical components like oil and brakes, should always follow your vehicle’s recommended schedule. Most vehicles have a predetermined service schedule, often based on mileage intervals. Adhering to this schedule is crucial as well as checking for any manufacturer-issued recalls.

Be sure to have your service book stamped and retain all service documents after every maintenance appointment. A well-documented service history not only reassures potential buyers but also increases your car's resale value.

Additionally, remember to routinely inspect and maintain essential fluids, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Proper fluid maintenance is vital for preserving your car’s longevity and ensuring peak performance. By staying proactive with both scheduled services and regular checks, you can keep your car running smoothly and maintain its value over time.

Consider purchasing breakdown cover so if your car begins to run less smoothly or starts causing issues, you are protected. At Eversure, we offer UK annual or single trip cover as well as annual or single trip European breakdown cover. With this insurance, you’ll have access to roadside assistance should your car break down.

2. Stay Away From Modifications

Common modifications include painting the car in unconventional colours, adding decals, altering the engine or mechanical components, and replacing original parts with aftermarket alternatives. However, these modifications and styling changes can negatively affect your car's resale value, as they often suggest heavy use during the early years of ownership.

If you’re set on making modifications, choose reversible ones that allow the car to be restored to its original factory specifications when it’s time to sell. Minimise or avoid changes that are difficult to reverse.

3. Routine Cleaning

Keeping your car clean is one of the easiest ways to maintain its appearance, but it’s more than just a cosmetic effort – it also helps protect the car’s value. Invest in high-quality car cleaning products to save on professional detailing costs. However, avoid using household detergents like washing-up liquid, as they can strip the paint and leave it looking dull and faded.

Promptly remove bird droppings, as they can quickly damage your car’s paintwork.

Don’t neglect the interior either. A clean interior not only retains the ‘new car’ feel as it is fresh and well-maintained but also signals to potential buyers that the vehicle has been well cared for, enhancing its resale appeal.

Routine cleaning is essential for preserving your car’s paint, preventing stubborn stains, and keeping blemishes at bay. By cleaning regularly, dirt and grime don’t have the chance to accumulate, making them much easier to remove before they become more difficult to tackle over time.

4. Low Mileage

High mileage on a car often suggests increased wear and tear, which can significantly impact the resale value of your car. As a vehicle accumulates more miles, various components, such as the engine, transmission, and suspension, undergo more stress and may show signs of aging or reduced performance. Potential buyers may be concerned about the potential for costly repairs or maintenance down the line.

A well-maintained high-mileage car can indeed still hold value, but it is important to keep in mind that lower mileage vehicles generally fetch higher resale prices due to the assumption of it being in better condition.

Proper maintenance and a documented service history can help mitigate some of the effects of high mileage however, it is still a factor to consider when determining how much you will get for your car.

5. Avoid Excessive Wear and Tear

Be mindful of how you drive your car, as your driving habits have a direct impact on its long-term health and resale value. Avoid harsh driving practices, such as sudden acceleration, abrupt stops, and aggressive turns, as these can put undue stress on critical components and lead to faster wear.

Also steer clear of curbs, potholes, and other hazards that can cause damage to your car wheels. Scuffed or kerbed alloys can significantly lower your car’s resale price, so take your time when parking or navigating tight spaces. You could consider using plastic alloy protectors to help keep your wheels looking pristine. Paying attention to the wheels is important as this is something that buyers immediately notice. Shiny, well-maintained alloys will make it easier for you to sell your vehicle.

Drive smoothly and with consideration to preserve the performance, longevity and value of your vehicle.

6. Defend Against Rust

Preventing and cleaning rust from your car is crucial for protecting its value as a rust-free car demonstrates your car has been well-maintained.

Preventing and addressing rust is challenging but essential, particularly if you live in an area where roads are frequently salted. Regularly waxing your car creates a protective barrier that shields the paint and metal from the elements, helping to prevent rust from forming. Taking care of scratches and dings promptly can also stop rust from taking hold.

In addition, regularly cleaning both the interior and exterior of your car helps prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and moisture, which can lead to rust in vulnerable areas. Staying proactive with cleaning and maintenance will protect your car from corrosion and make sure it stays in top condition.

7. Minimise Eating, Drinking and Smoking

Limiting eating, drinking, and smoking inside the vehicle can significantly reduce lingering odours and stains. Odours can get into the upholstery and even find their way into the air conditioning system which is why eliminating strong smells can be difficult.

Persistent smells and tough stains are subsequently hard to clean. Preventing them in the first place is the best way to ensure your car remains attractive to future buyers and retains its value.

8. Sell Your Car at the Right Time

By waiting for the right season to sell, you can maximize the return on your investment without any additional cost.

If you're planning to sell a convertible, timing the sale during the summer months can help you attract more buyers and get a higher price. On the other hand, if you're selling a larger vehicle like an SUV, winter is the ideal time, as buyers tend to look for more practical cars in colder weather.

It’s also wise to consider selling your car before the annual plate change. Doing so will mean your car won’t be considered a year older than necessary. This will help you avoid further depreciation that comes with each new registration. To minimise annual devaluation, pay attention to the date of the next plate change and aim to sell your car before.

9. Have all the Documents

Having the right documentation is essential when selling your car. This is because potential buyers want reassurance that the vehicle has been properly maintained. Certain documents will also allow them to verify its ownership history. The documents that are good to have include:

• Service history book
• MOT certificates
• Ownership history
• Vehicle registration document (V5C)
• Warranty information
• Receipts for repairs or replacements
• Road tax records
• Insurance documents

Track and retain records of every service and maintenance performed on your car, as this will not only instil buyer confidence but also help you demonstrate the vehicle's care and value. Keep all relevant documents organised and easily accessible in a place where you’ll remember to find them as this will make the process easier when you come to selling your car.

10. Store it Properly

When you plan on not using your car for extended periods of time, consider either storing it in a garage or protecting it with a high-quality car cover. Proper storage means your vehicle is shielded from prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, or salty air. Such exposure catalyses paint damage, rust and deterioration of interior materials which lowers the car’s resale value. Storing or covering your car minimises these risks helps to maintain the condition of the car, therefore retaining the value of the car.

Please note that regular cleaning also helps minimise the effects of environmental damage.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to selling your car, a well-maintained vehicle will always attract more buyers and command a higher resale price. By viewing your car as an investment rather than just a possession, you'll be motivated to address any issues proactively. This mindset encourages you to keep your car in the best condition possible and can even extend its lifespan.

With the right and consistent care and attention, your car will remain a high-performing, reliable and valuable asset.