Easily Maximize Resale Value
When it comes to resale value, few people think beyond mechanical issues. we consider things that might affect the vehicle in the future, such as mileage, upcoming service requirements, and previous accidents. Something we should discuss as well, though, is how detailing can affect your resale value. Below you will find the main things to consider.
Time is Key
Car owners are hanging onto vehicles for over 5 years, which is actually longer than ever before. After those years have passed, they can decide whether to trade it in or sell it. This is the point at which the degree of care, upkeep, and maintenance will really matter for your pocketbook.
During those 5 or 6 years, your car will have been exposed to UV rays, salt, interior wear and tear, scratches, and door dings, all of which will degrade your vehicle’s look.
Exterior Damage
UV rays from the sun are the biggest problem. Over time, factory UV inhibitors will gradually break down, allowing more and more UV rays to affect your paint, causing it to become cloudy and patchy. This effect is especially evident with headlights, and you’ve probably noticed “foggy” or cloudy-looking headlights caused by oxidization from the sun.
Appearance Sells
Less costly than a new paint job, properly detailing your vehicle will not only protect it from UV radiation but also give it a new car gloss. Proper vehicle maintenance means regularly washing and following up with a protective layer of wax/sealant. Sure, you can do a Hail Mary scrub the day you decide to trade your vehicle in, but the results won’t be anything like if you’d had it regularly detailed.
Waxes, sealants, and coatings are specially developed to bond directly to paint, and they contain UV inhibitors that buff up the factory UV inhibitors to absorb the UV rays.
“The difference between resale or trade in value of a used vehicle in “fair” condition and a trade in deemed “excellent” condition will probably surprise you. It is between $1,200 to $5000.”
The Difference in Value is Huge
The difference between resale or trade-in value of a used vehicle in “fair” condition and a trade-in deemed “excellent” condition will probably surprise you. It is between $1,200 to $5000. People tend to ensure the mechanical functions of their car are in good working order, but often neglect the exterior condition and appearance of their vehicle. This means that the buyer or dealership must imagine your car’s aesthetic potential, without all the swirl marks and faded paint.
In reality, both the mechanical and the appearance significantly affect the going rate for your used car and how fast it will sell. Clean, shiny cars that look like they’ve been cared for and properly maintained will sell faster than cars with dull, clouded paint.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Don’t wait until you decide to trade-in or sell to get your car properly detailed. Whether you just purchased a new car and want some tips on maintaining its appearance or it’s time to breathe life back into your daily driver, contact CJ’s Autobling and speak to one of our friendly, professional detailers.