Top Tips for Preserving Your Vehicles Lifespan and Resale Value

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Your vehicle is a hefty investment, and whether you purchase a new auto or you're a second-hand connoisseur, you want to ensure that you are caring for it correctly and that you aren't doing anything that will diminish its safety and lifespan and realize its value of the car.

While it's common knowledge that cars depreciate, the rate of depreciation can be significantly reduced with proper maintenance. This not only preserves the value of your vehicle but also saves you money in the long run.

These tips are designed to help you preserve your vehicle's lifespan, reduce depreciation, and ensure an enjoyable drive day after day.

Tire Checks

Tire pressure is vital when driving as it helps them perform as they need to. Regular checks are crucial, as incorrect pressure can decrease fuel efficiency, increase wear and tear, and even lead to blowouts, compromising safety. It is recommended you check its pressure monthly and maintain the correct tire pressure for your car at all times (information can be found in the manufacturer's booklet or online). Remember, cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, so you need to check more frequently if you live in a climate where it's cold frequently.

In addition to checking the pressure, you need to check that the tread is at or above legal limits for safety on the road, which is 2/32 in or 1.6mm. A good tip is to place a penny with Lincoln's head upside down between two ribs on the tire. If you can see the entire head, you need to replace your tires.

You also need to rotate and balance the tires every 6 to 8 thousand miles to help prevent uneven tread wear.

Keep It Clean

Regular cleaning, both inside and out, is not just about aesthetics. It's about preserving the appearance and value of your vehicle by preventing dirt from damaging the paint and leaving unsightly marks.

The same applies internally. Dirty vehicles will experience early signs of damage compared to those cleaned on a regular basis, as you are allowing dirt that causes stains and odors to build up, which can be difficult and costly to clean and remove. And a dirty car won't fetch its full resale value as new buyers want to pay top dollar for a car that hasn't been cared for.

Regularly vacuum any debris, use upholstery shampoo to clean interiors, dust hard surfaces, clean spills, and wipe windows down. Externally, you need to wash the car regularly and pay attention to any signs of rust or dents you should fix immediately to avoid further damage to the bodywork.

Get Repairs Fixed Fast

Car repairs can be expensive; everyone knows that, but one small job you put off can impact another part of the car, and now you're left with an enormous repair bill that could have been avoided! If you are not able to frequent the garage to pay for repairs, learning about the car you drive and carrying out minor repairs can be a great hobby to teach yourself.

While you might not be able to replace an entire exhaust system, changing brake pads might be within your skill set, as can changing the oil, filters, or any other small job that can be easy to learn.

Alternatively, you can ask your mechanic if you can purchase the part up front, and if they will fit it to save you money and spread the cost out. Whether you need an exhaust for honda civic or a new fuel pump, catalytic converter, or anything else, enquire about the possibility of supplying the part and paying for the labor.

Regular Servicing and Maintenance Schedules

It is generally recommended that you get a full service or follow the recommended maintenance schedule yearly at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles, then every 12,000 thereafter, whatever comes first.

This is important for all vehicles, but especially those with a warranty that can be voided if this isn't carried out. Regular maintenance not only helps avoid costly repairs but can also keep a car extended warranty valid, ensuring coverage for unexpected breakdowns. The maintenance work includes routine checks on the suspension, fluids, spark plugs, belts, hoses, lights, batteries, and other components.

Use High-Quality Parts and Accessories

When it comes to your vehicle, quality should always come first. Using recommended or high-quality parts and accessories ensures your car performs as it should, giving you peace of mind and preventing any potential damage caused by subpar products. By investing in quality, you're investing in the long-term performance and value of your vehicle.

Keep Records

If resale value is a concern, you need to ensure you keep records of everything you've done, from changing wipers to changing lightbulbs to annual maintenance checks, repairs, upgrades, or any other work.

This means you can demonstrate to the new buyer the complete condition of the vehicle and how you cared for it to ensure you can get the most money from it when the time does come to sell.

Oil Changes

You need to be changing your oil every 5 to 7 thousand miles or in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines. If your engine has clean oil in it regularly, this can allow it to run smoothly and not become damaged or use dirty oil that needs repairing. The longer your oil is in the car, the more damage the engine could sustain, so if you don't do anything else to your vehicle, always check the oil frequently and change it when required.

Remember, not all oils can be used in all cars, so it is important you know what type of oil to use as the wrong oil can damage the engine and you use as high a quality oil as you can; your manufacturer will have recommended brands for you to use if you're unsure.

There are multiple things you can do to your vehicle to help preserve its value and ensure it drives well and is looked after during your ownership. Owning a car is a big responsibility, and these small tasks might seem like more ways to part you from your money, but they're integral to protecting your investment and ensuring that when you get on the road, you and other road users are safe at all times.