How to Maintain the Value of Your Car

A used car’s value is surprisingly easy to keep up. With just a few tips, any driver can preserve the lifespan of their automobile, and look good while doing so.
Steps
1. Know why value is important. Like you would with any investment, you want to maintain the value of your car. Buying new isn’t always the most valuable investment in a car. Keeping a car you own in top shape or buying a well-preserved used car is more cost efficient.
2. Pay attention to mileage. If you can avoid it, lessen your driving to diminish any extra miles on your car. You can opt for a rental car on road trips, which will probably be less money than the charges you’ll incur as the mileage of your car depreciates its re-sale value. If you have a long commute, see if there is somebody you work with that would be willing to carpool. The two of you can switch off driving on different days, and both of you will benefit.
3. Keep your vehicle serviced. Maintenance should be regularly checked. Not only does routine car care help you avoid unnecessary, last-minute repairs, it demonstrates to any future prospectors that you appreciated your car by properly maintaining it. Many used car shoppers are willing to spend a little bit more on a used car if it has been routinely serviced.
4. Treat your car with respect, no matter if it was bought used or new. If possible, avoid extreme driving, harsh stopping and starting, over-towing, speeding or driving in poor road conditions.
5. Avoid heavy construction areas. Construction can be the most catastrophic enemy to your vehicle. Loose gravel and flying chunks of asphalt will impair the outside of your automobile, just like rust will deteriorate the underbelly. Keeping your car cleaned and detailed, using wax to protect paint surface from elements, and vacuuming the inside frequently will help you maintain the value of your used car.
6. Beware of harsh weather. Areas with cold weather are notorious for ripping up the value of vehicles. Not only are the winter months long, but they produce harsh weather climates that involve ice, snow and salt — all of which damage cars.
Whether working on cars is a hobby or a cost-driven necessity, most DIYers and backyard mechanics are better off with inexpensive alternatives to expensive professional tools. There are some good tools that can interface with your computer, phone, or tablet.