How to Increase the Resale Value of Your Car

As you look for a new vehicle, you may have questions about the value of your current car, truck, or SUV. If you’d like to purchase something newer, it’s possible to increase the resale value of your vehicle so you can get some more cash to put toward a new one. If you have a Honda, you may be in a good spot, thanks to these vehicles holding their value for so long. Still, you can take additional steps to increase the vehicle’s value when it’s time to upgrade.

At Ike Honda in Marion, we buy used vehicles from many of our shoppers. Here’s what you need to know to get the most money for your car.

Touch Up Your Car’s Paint Job

Has your car’s paint job seen better days? Even if the paint doesn’t have the same sheen as when you first purchased it, you can still get cash for your car. If you’d like to maximize your car’s value, our service center at Ike Honda can help you touch up your vehicle’s paint job so that it looks as good as new. Even if you’re not considering a paint job, now is a great time to get your car waxed. It will look its best for a potential buyer or dealership evaluation.

This is also a good time to ask the professionals to repair any minor dings or dents, since any bit of damage will stand out to a buyer. The service center can help you manage those small imperfections that might stand out on a quick inspection.

Get Your Car Detailed

At Ike Honda, our service center can also detail your car before you have it valued by a professional. A detailed car looks clean and sharp, adding a bit of oomph to the general look of its interior. The goal is to scrub all those areas you usually don’t wipe down, such as door pockets, cup holders, and backseat nooks.

Engine detailing can also help your car appeal to potential future owners. The buyer will get the impression that you take great care of your vehicle because the engine looks like it has been cared for.

Eliminate Signs of Furry Passengers

Your next step is to eliminate all traces of your pets in your vehicle. Pets may be a big part of your daily life, but the damage they cause can bring down the value of your car. Clean up any stains or prints and remove all signs of pet hair with a vacuum and a lint roller.

Bring Vehicle Service Documentation

When you bring your car for a value assessment at Ike Honda, it’s a good idea to have as much documentation with you as possible. If you have records of the repairs and services performed on your vehicle in the past, it can provide reassurance that it’s been cared for properly, which makes the vehicle seem more reliable.

In the same vein, make sure that you’re taking care of any minor services the vehicle needs. Your car should be up-to-date on oil changes, smog tests, and anything else that a buyer would want to have taken care of right away. An easy fix, such as replacing a taillight or getting a new windshield wiper, can tip the scales in your vehicle’s favor.

Include Everything That Came With the Car

Your vehicle may have come with floor mats, extra keys, tool kits, a spare wheel, and various other components. Make sure that it isn’t missing anything that could diminish its value. Even a user’s manual can leave a good impression on the buyer. And if you’ve thrown away the original floor mats, consider including newer replacements you’ve purchased.

Replace Problem Tires 

Many drivers overlook their tires. If you’re trying to get the most for your vehicle, a new set of tires can help increase its appeal. Brand-new tires with excellent tread may be pricey, but they can also be another sign that you’ve cared for your vehicle properly over the years.

Repair Windshield Cracks and Chips

If your auto insurance covers small windshield chips and cracks, consider getting your window fixed before the trade-in. Some small chips are very affordable to fix with a DIY kit or at your local service center, and they can make a world of difference when you’re trying to sell your car.

Trade In Your Vehicle When It’s Most Valuable

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for trading in a vehicle, you may find that you can get the best value before its factory warranty expires and it needs major services. You can also get more money for a car that has done less than 100,000 miles. Some people also recommend trading in a vehicle during the first half of the year, particularly before the new vehicle models come out.

Find Out How Much Your Car Is Worth

Do you really know how much your vehicle is worth? It’s important that you consider many factors, including its age, condition, and mileage. We provide a simplified trade-in process that includes an accurate valuation of your car’s worth. You can use our online tool to get a trade-in range based on your vehicle’s year, make, model, and style.

Visit Ike Honda for More Information

As you can see, there are many ways to spruce up your car and get more cash before you buy something new. Ike Honda can value your trade and help you find new vehicles in Marion. After you’ve learned how to get the most money for your car, visit our lot to take a look at our inventory. The steps for getting paid for your car are simple: value your trade, bring your car in, and get paid at our lot. Give us a call to learn more about the process if you still have questions.

gray Honda sedan parked on road during day by TopSphere Media is licensed with Unsplash License