The time has come for you to part with your beloved car. Hopefully, it was a loyal companion that got you through bad weather and armfuls of grocery bags. Perhaps you even went on a road trip together more than once. Now that you’re getting ready to sell it, some last modifications to your car might make all the difference in what you get for it. If you have in-car videos or photos of your vehicle, use a video editor online to create a highlight reel of your car to share digitally with potential buyers. This could help you drum up interest before they even see the car in person. Here are 10 tips on things you can modify to add some extra value to your vehicle.
1. Repair What You Can
Of course, the idea is not for you to spend thousands fixing up your car when you are ready to sell it. However, there might be small dents that can be easily fixed for a very low cost or you need to improve your stereo system. These things are the type of issues buyers look for to get you to lower the price. By going one step ahead and getting rid of these minor details, you will be improving your odds of selling at a favorable price.
2. Choosing the Right Custom Wheels
Getting new wheels can have a great effect on how your car looks. After a long time using them, your wheels probably show their age, and that gives a bad look to your entire vehicle. Therefore, changing them might be in your best interest, especially if you choose custom wheels, which will make it look more unique. However, it’s all about balance, you don’t want to go to the extreme on how the wheels look or you might create the opposite effect of what you’re looking for. Alloy wheels are always a safe bet as they make your car look great without being over the top.
3. Never Forget About Tires
If you changed the wheels then you should change the tires. Otherwise, you’re framing your beautiful, new, custom wheels on old tires that look like they have been through a battle! This would make no sense. Furthermore, people who are knowledgeable about cars will appreciate the value of new tires. These are instrumental for a smooth driving experience. If they take it out on a test drive, a good set of tires can make everything a lot smoother and increase your chances of selling.
4. Paint Can Do Wonders
A paint job is one of the most important things you can do before selling your car. With time and wear, certain spots might have gotten toasted by the sun. Likewise, there might be some scratches here and there that instantly drop dollars from the total price of your car. To avoid this, you can paint your car, which will make it look as good as new. You might even want to keep it yourself after you see it!
5. Check Vehicle History Reports
This is not exactly a modification, but it can be a deal-breaker when it comes to selling your car. If it was already used when you first bought it and you didn’t do a history reports’ check, then this is the right time. Performing a VIN check is now almost a routine step when people are buying a used car. Therefore, it’s better if you check the VIN history of your car, so that you can solve any issues you were unaware of before you put it up for sale. You can also do it so that you can provide it to the buyer yourself and speed things up.
6. Replace the “Bushings”
The suspension system of your vehicle has a great number of what people call “bushings”, which are nothing more than rubber pieces that keep everything going smoothly. The best part is that these pieces are not expensive at all, and they can make a world of difference in how your car feels. These pieces absorb everything from vibration to noise, and changing them can make your car feel almost like it’s new. This would be a great thing for when your prospective buyer takes that test drive.
7. Make the Bumpers Look Perfect
Maybe you don’t want to make such a big investment paying for a complete paint job or fixing every little scratch or dent your car might have. If you have decided to forego this, at least make sure the bumpers look pristine. Bumpers are the things that get damaged more easily, and they are also the parts of the car that draw the most attention. So make sure your bumpers look as good as possible. You might even consider replacing them if they’re truly a wreck.
8. Change the Light Bulbs
Sometimes the bulbs of the car lamps stop working because they have reached their useful life. Some of these are so small we might not even notice. However, when a prospective buyer wants to check if the lights work, there shouldn't be any issues! An old light bulb might give the wrong impression, and it’s a fairly inexpensive way to improve your car. Another option is to get bulbs different from the original ones, since many options allow for greater illumination, making for a safer drive in the dark.
9. Get New Floor Mats
Floor mats are some of the most ignored things by car owners. However, they can get damaged in time and, although unassuming, they can make the interior of your car look like a much older vehicle. Therefore, this is a great way to work on the inside of your car without spending too much money. You can get rubber mats, which are perfect for any weather. Make sure to clean them when someone is coming to check out your car.
10. Get A Deep Clean
Today, car spas and car washes offer a wide variety of services to make sure your car is spotless inside and out. It should go without saying that anytime a prospective buyer is going to take a look at your vehicle, it should be spotless. This way, they won’t feel like there’s something you’re trying to hide, and your car will be in the best possible condition to be sold for the highest amount.
