The moment you drive off the car lot, your used car begins its decline in value, and by the time you’re ready to sell it, it may be worth much less than what you originally paid for it. However, there are several things you can do to keep your used car looking and running like new. Here are five tips that will help your vehicle maintain its like new status as long as possible.
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your car is schedule regular maintenance. This is often overlooked, but it’s so important because it helps detect and prevent major problems before they happen. You don’t want to be stuck on the side of the road with engine trouble or a flat tire.
2. Keep your car clean
Keeping your car clean is an easy way to protect the resale value. You can do it yourself by following these steps: Use a water and dish soap solution to wash your used car, Rinse the car off with plain water, making sure to get all of the soap off, Dry the car off as best you can, Apply wax or sealant to protect against UV rays, Use an all-purpose cleaner like 409 on specific areas that need attention (i.e., dashboard), Keep up with oil changes, Inspect tires every few months, Inspect fluids such as antifreeze and oil regularly.
3. Do all the little things
Check your tires for proper air pressure and check the treads for excessive wear. Have your oil changed every 3,000 miles to keep the engine lubricated and to avoid costly repairs down the line. Make sure all lights are in working order and that you have enough washer fluid in your car to clean your windshield during the winter months. Also make sure your wipers are up-to-date with the latest technology so they can wipe away debris from snow or rain as quickly as possible.
4. Don’t let up on maintenance
It is important to keep up with your car’s maintenance. If you neglect your car, it will start to break down, which will cost you more in the long run. When you buy used cars in sacramento, make sure you get oil changes every 3 months or 3,000 miles. You should also have your brakes checked regularly. Brakes are one of the most expensive things on a car and can wear out very quickly, so make sure they are checked before they wear out all together!
5. Keep it from breaking down in the first place
Keep it from breaking down in the first place. There are many maintenance costs that arise when you have a car, but preventive measures can save you money on breakdowns and unexpected repairs. Below are some of the things you should do to keep your used car running well: Change your oil regularly. Oil lubricates and cools your engine. You want to change the oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first). Check your tire pressure monthly.
