What Adds the Most Value When Fixing Up a Car?

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Many car enthusiasts dream about fixing up a car and selling it on for a profit. It’s a way to spend time on your hobby, with the aim of making a little money at the end of it too. But if you have a car that isn’t in great shape, it’s realistically going to need A LOT of work to get it pristine. And the reality is that it just might not be worth doing absolutely everything. If you need to focus your efforts on a few key areas, what should you hone in on?

People used to change cars pretty frequently, opting for newer cars as soon as theirs got more than a couple of years old. But times have changed. Economic times are tough, the cost of living is crazy, and switching cars often simply isn’t viable for many. Americans are now keeping their cars for an average 12.6 years! And even when it is time to get a newer car, you want to sell your old car for as much as possible. Which means fixing it up a little to help you get as much money as possible for it. You might be a car enthusiast who looks forward to jobs like this – or you might need a little professional help! But what areas should you focus on to add the most value?

Engine Tune-Up

The engine is the most important part of the car. If the car doesn’t run, it’s not worth much! So maintaining its health is everything. You’ll need to do more than just an oil change; you’ll want to get the whole thing checked over and working as well as possible. Replacing spark plugs and air filters are usually quick wins that can lead to big improvements. It’ll make your car run smoother, and enhance fuel efficiency and longevity. You may actually find you don’t want to sell your car for a while once you get your engine working optimally. And if you do sell, potential buyers are often willing to pay a premium for a car with a documented history of regular maintenance.

Tires and Suspension System

Your car’s ability to handle the road effectively is all about its tires and suspension system. Upgrading to high-performance wheel and tire package can improve grip, handling, and safety. Bolt on an upgraded suspension system too, and you’ll notice how driving your car brings a smoother ride, and also better control through tight corners. Ok, so performance tires do come with a higher price tag, but they absolutely will maximize your vehicle’s capabilities. Likewise, a well-tuned suspension system contributes to a better driving experience. A stiffer suspension will enhance your car’s handling. All of this is a selling point for potential buyers, who will notice the benefits of your investment when they do a test drive.

Upgrading Brakes

Safety is everyone’s number one priority when buying a car, so you absolutely must make this a selling point of your car if you want to sell it. High-performance brake pads and rotors significantly improve stopping power, which gives peace of mind to everyone. Upgrading your brakes is always a wise investment. High-quality brakes can withstand the demands of all types of driving, ensuring that you can stop quickly and safely when needed. For buyers, knowing that a car has a robust braking system is a significant selling point. And it also demonstrates that the vehicle has been well-cared for and that the owner prioritizes safety.

Aesthetics

Performance is the most important thing when you’re valuing and selling your car, but aesthetics play an important role in your car’s overall appeal. Consider things such as a fresh coat of paint, custom rims, or a sleek body kit. Any of these will make your vehicle stand out in a crowd. And when you’re selling, you want to have a lot of interest to get the price you want. If you only want to do one thing to boost your car’s aesthetics, make it a paint job. You could restore your car to its original glory, or you could choose a new color (look at the most popular car colors to choose something prospective buyers will want), a professional paint job can make a big impact. Quality matters and paint jobs are tough, so choose a reputable shop that uses high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting results.

Interior Enhancements

The inside of your car should be dressed to impress. Bad smells, shabby seats and dirty footwells are instantly off-putting to anyone. Consider swapping out worn seats for high-quality leather or performance fabrics that offer support and a plush look. Modernizing your car’s tech can also add value. Newer audio systems, GPS navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity are convenient, and actually a lot of buyers will expect these too. Prioritize upgrading the upholstery, installing a new sound system, or adding modern conveniences like a touchscreen display. These kinds of interior enhancements will elevate your driving experience and your car’s resale value.

Proper Documentation

This is something you’ll either have or won’t have if you’ve owned your car for a while. If you do, this will be a great selling point if you sell your car on. And if you don’t have proper documentation, at least get some documentation if you get any professional work done while you’re fixing it up. Keeping detailed records of all upgrades, repairs, and maintenance can significantly boost your car’s resale value. It provides transparency and builds trust with potential buyers. You could even get a reputable mechanic or dealer to do a full service on the vehicle before you sell it, which would be welcomed by potential buyers.

Knowing what buyers are looking for can make a big difference when fixing up a car. Trends in automotive technology and aesthetics influence what features are desirable and can impact resale value. Stay informed about current trends and use this knowledge to guide your upgrade decisions. Your fixer upper project could bring many rewards if you go about it in the right way!

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About Post Author

Marcus M.

https://www.bmwcoop.com