How To Protect Your Car's Value and Reliability

Owning a car isn't just about enjoying the ride—it’s about making sure your vehicle stays reliable, safe, and in good condition for the long haul. While most people focus on resale value down the road, regular care and mindful driving habits can make a big difference in how your car performs and lasts over time. From routine maintenance to avoiding unnecessary modifications, there are many simple ways to protect your car’s longevity. In this guide, we'll explore practical habits that ensure your vehicle stays in top shape for years to come.

Consider the Resale Value When You’re Buying Your Car

While the idea of selling your car sometime in the distant future might be the last thing on your mind when you’re buying, you should factor it into your decision. And the future might not be as distant as you think – Australians tend to hold on to their cars for no longer than five to seven years

. Do some research about the kind of car you’re buying, how popular it has been over the years and whether there is still demand, what its depreciation rates are, and

It Pays to be Neutral

Colour choice might seem trivial, but neutral colours like white, black, grey and silver are universally popular and hold their value better than brighter, less common colours. Got your heart set on magenta or yellow? You might want to reconsider.

Make Car Maintenance a Priority

Keeping your vehicle in good condition is critical to protect your car’s longevity. This means servicing your car regularly, including keeping tyres and brakes in good condition, keeping it free of rust, scratches and dents, cleaning it thoroughly inside and out (you might want to consider a professional detailing service before you put it up for sale), avoiding damage from salt, humidity and bird droppings, and being mindful of the impact of things like smoking and pet hair.

Avoid Modifications

You might live for your sports wheels, spoiler, sunroof and slick paint job, but chances are buyers looking to purchase a car will be put off by these kinds of personalised modifications. Before making changes, consider the cost involved in removing them before sale or how they might end up undermining resale value if they stay put. If you must make modifications, consider ones that might add value, like updating camera or Bluetooth technology.

Keep Your Records in Order

Potential buyers will be reassured by a record of your car’s service history. While service by the dealership might be considered more desirable, a logbook completed by your mechanic will still go a long way to building confidence in a buyer.

^Disclaimer

^{Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.}