9 Ways to Add to the Value of Your Car
With the exception of certain classic cars, motor vehicles typically lose value over time. However, there are some simple, fairly economical steps you can take to add to the value of your car, to maximise the price you can sell it for or the loan amount you can use it to secure.
1. DIY repairs of scratches and scuffs
You can significantly increase the resale value of a car just by repairing scuffs and scratches on the paintwork. For minor scuffs, try a low-cost scratch repair kit, or even a scratch repair pen.
These products remove fine scratches, paint transfer, oxidation and ugly swirl marks caused by automatic car washes.
For more serious deep scratches, dings and dents, head for a professional bodywork shop.
2. Brighten up the bodywork
Ensure the bodywork of the car is clean and shiny. Use a good quality colour wax or polish for the best results.
Some examples are Holts Colour Match Car Polish and Turtle Wax Colour Magic Plus. Birdlime, stubborn stains and water spots are easily removed with a product such as Shield’s Clay Bar Cleaning Kit.
3. Bumper basics
Scuffed or damaged bumpers are an eyesore. It may be worth replacing them if they’ve seen better days.
But if your car has plastic bumpers that are showing signs of fading, discolouration or aging, it’s worth trying a cheaper, easier solution – apply a blackening agent, such as Wynn’s Black Back (sold for about R59). The product can also be used to refresh and revive dashboards, tyres and other black trim.
4. Be wheel savvy
Ensure your wheel rims are clean and dust-free. Badly damaged alloy or steel rims will have to be professionally repaired.
If the damage is minimal, and you have the time and patience, you can repair your own alloy rims. Remember to apply a blackening agent to your tyres for a good-as-new look.
5. Do the dash
Consider replacing or repairing a cracked or worn dashboard. If your dash and interior trim is still in good knick, use a product like Shield Cockpit Dash Protector or Waxco Auto Cockpit and Interior Cleaner to add shine.
6. Interior makeover
Take special care with your car’s interior. Give the carpets a deep clean to remove dirt and unpleasant odours. Get rips in the fabric, vinyl or leather upholstery professionally repaired or, for small, less obtrusive tears, try using a vinyl and leather repair kit. Also freshen up the car with scented aerosol spray.
7. Under the bonnet
Ensure the engine is clean and grease-free. Avoid steam cleaning, as most modern cars have sophisticated electronic equipment linked to the on-board computer located under the bonnet.
For optimum results use an engine cleaner and degreaser. You can buy 500 ml products by Shield, Spanjaard or Wynn’s for under R50.
8. Windscreen 101
A cracked or damaged windscreen is a turn-off. If you’re into DIY, you can repair fine stone damage and chips in the glass relatively cheaply using a windscreen repair kit. Cracks can be repaired at Glassfit, PG Glass, AutoScreenz or a range of other glass repair companies.
9. Avoid unnecessary optional extras
Avoid spending money on optional extras that don’t add value to your vehicle. An expensive stereo and hi-fi system, luxury leather trim and top of the range climate control may be nice to have, but the standard options are practical and less pricey.
Maximising your car’s loan value
These days, you don’t have to sell your car to unlock its cash value. Reputable short-term loan providers, such as lamna, offer asset-based loans, using your paid-up vehicle as collateral.
The loan amount you’re offered will depend on an assessment of the market value of your car, taking factors like its make and model, age and condition into account.
To qualify for the best loan value, ensure the vehicle’s paperwork is in order – the car’s licence must be valid, and it helps to have an updated service record. Also ensure that the car has an extra key, the spare tyre is in good condition and the jack is in the boot.
With Pawn My Car, you can use a car that’s in your name to secure a loan quickly and easily, with no delays or credit checks. For more information, contact us on 086 172 9648 or simply complete and submit our online application form.
