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The Citizen, 2015-04-23, Page 12PAGE 12. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2015. MS –Few drivers start thinking about resale value when driving a new car off of the dealership lot for the first time. Still enamoured with that new car smell, drivers can be excused for not thinking of resale value as they put the pedal to the metal and speed off in their brand new ride. But it’s never too early to start protecting a vehicle’s resale value, especially if you hope to recoup as much of your vehicle investment as possible when the time comes to sell your car or trade it in for a newer model. The following are some ways motorists can protect the resale value of their vehicles from the moment the dealer tosses them the keys. • Keep all maintenance records: New cars typically do not require much maintenance. But drivers should keep records of all work and maintenance done on their vehicles, even if that work does not extend beyond routine tuneups or oil changes. Keeping maintenance records shows prospective buyers you prioritized taking care of the vehicle over the years, and that makes the car or truck more attractive to preowned vehicle buyers who want to avoid buying a lemon or a car that has not been taken care of. • Don’t overlook looks: Looks can be deceiving, but new car buyers who eventually plan to sell their vehicles should do all they can to keep the car looking as new as it did the day it was first driven off the dealership lot. Much like homeowners benefit when selling a home with curb appeal, a car that looks good gives buyers the impression that it was well taken care of. But a dirty car or one with lots of dings and dents is a red flag to preowned car buyers. • Keep a clean interior:New car owners typically maintain some strict rules with regards to food and beverages in their vehicles. After all, no one wants their brand new car to succumb to stains or spills. But the longer drivers have a car the more lax they tend to become with regard to allowing food and drinks into their cars, and that can ultimately hurt the resale value of the vehicle. Maintain a clean interior whether you just bought the car or have driven it for a few years. Much like an impressive exterior leaves a lasting impression, a clean interior that has not succumb to coffee stains or muddy boots is more likely to impress buyers than a car with an interior that has seen better, cleaner days. • Drive defensively:It’s not just what you do to a car but how you drive the car that can affect its resale value. Driving defensively reduces your risk of accident, and an accident-free preowned vehicle is a top priority for potential buyers. But driving defensively also reduces wear and tear on your vehicle, as over time constant stop-and-go, aggressive driving takes its toll on vehicle engines and other components. • Periodically examine the vehicle history report:Today’s preowned car buyers know to ask for Maintain your vehicle to preserve resale value Keep it clean While the first thing on your mind when driving your new car off the lot might not be when you’re going to sell it down the road, it’s not a bad idea to think ahead and prepare for that day by taking care of your car and preserving its value. (MS photo) If Your Vehicle Needs Some TLC.... Since 1995, Jack has been your trusted choice for repairs and service on your vehicles. Jack is also an OMVIC certified Used Car Dealer and member of the Used Car Dealer Association of Ontario. Jack brings that same integrity to finding you the previously-owned vehicle that works for your needs. 519-523-9308 Book your service today www.jacksgeneralrepair.ca 2 miles south of Blyth corner of London Rd. & Hullett McKillop Rd., Central Huron ...bring it to us for expert service and repair. Vehicle Sales & Service McClinchey South End Auto Wayne McClinchey 82991 London Road, South of Blyth 519-523-4424 Get your car or truck ready for the warm weather ~ book your Spring tune-up • General Repairs & Maintenance • Brakes • Tune-Ups • Repairs to all makes and models of cars & trucks R & S ALIGNMENT SERVICE ALIGNMENT - SUSPENSION SERVICE & TIRES 519-357-1230 Hwy. 86 West, R.R. 3 Wingham, Ont. N0G 2W0 389 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-9725 Now is the time to rid your car of winter grit and grime! Our tokens make great gifts! & Detailing Continued on page 13