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Many customers will look to trade in or resell their current cars as new vehicle models make their way out of the factories and into dealerships.

There are numerous factors that determine a vehicle’s resale value, such as the make and model of the vehicle as well as its age, mileage and overall condition. Although a large portion of the resale value is predetermined, car owners can increase the value by taking proper care of the vehicle to keep it in its optimum condition.

The following tips will help car owners prepare their vehicles for resale or trade-in:

Have all ownership materials. When first purchased, the document that accompanied the vehicle is the key component in resale value. Warranty and owner’s manual are included in the ownership materials. Having the spare key is important and when applicable, the convertible top boot cover.

Filling all fluids and looking under the hood. These include brake fluid, power steering fluid and wiper fluid, along with oil, coolant and antifreeze.

Doing the basic operational checks. First, check the dashboard to see if any warning lights are lit and address any indicated problems. Second, make sure all lights, locks, windows, wipers, turn signals, the trunk release, mirrors, seat belts, defrosters, the horn, air conditioning and heat systems and seat adjusters work. Other things you should check are the accessories purchased with vehicle such as the sunroof or heated seats.

Conducting your own road test. Make sure that the gear selection functions properly and that the vehicle easily starts. Also, check steering performance and make sure that the cruise control, overdrive, gauges and sound system are in tip-top shape. Another thing you need to make sure of is if the brakes and acceleration are operating effectively.

Checking for leaks. To check if there are dramatic decreases in fluid levels, inspect under the hood.

Evaluate overall appearance. Externally, remove decals and stickers, check for dents and scratches, and ensure all the wheels match and are filled. Internally, you should clean the panels, dashboard, floors, seats, and mats. If there are personal items from the trunk and glove compartment, remove them. Having your vehicle professionally washed and detailed prior to having the resale value evaluation is a must as well.

And lastly, specialists recommend regular service and maintenance checkups by certified automotive experts throughout your vehicle’s life. To demonstrate that proper care was provided, keep your own record of maintenance and checkups performed on your vehicle in a logbook even though your dealership keeps a detailed history on file.

When you’re looking for cheap car repair shops Apex North Carolina, try Vital Automotive. We offer the best in automotive repair and diagnostics. Our rates are competitive, with no hidden fees.