How to Retain (& Improve) Your Used Car Value
By purchasing a used car, especially one that’s only a few years old, you’ve avoided a major chunk of the vehicle’s depreciation happening after purchase. But if you want to further retain your used car value, keep reading—this article will help you make the most of your new (to you) purchase.
Why it’s important to retain your used car value
If you’ve purchased from a previous owner who took meticulous care of it and stayed on top of routine maintenance, the vehicle could still retain a good chunk of its original valuation. You’ll want to retain that value for as long as possible.
Even if you’re planning on owning the vehicle until the wheels fall off, you never know what the future holds. Upsizing, downsizing, longer commutes, changing recreational needs, etc. If you end up needing a new vehicle at some point, you’ll want to be prepared.
Some of the factors that best impact a car’s resale value include:
- Age and mileage
- Condition and maintenance schedule
- Accident and repair history
- Upgrades and customizations (these can go in either direction, depending on which upgrades you choose)
- Number of previous owners
Besides, higher used car valuations often correlate with the remaining life of the vehicle. By taking steps to retain (and even improve) your used car value, you can keep it running for longer.
What are the major reasons for decreased used car valuations?
Before we get into the proactive steps you can take to retain the value of your used car, there are a range of reasons why used cars lose value over time. These include:
- Poor handling while on the road leads to unnecessary damage
- Not keeping up with routine maintenance, which can cause small issues to balloon into major problems
- Making modifications that decrease the vehicle’s appeal to buyers—undesirable colors, spoilers, etc.
- Choosing a make and model that doesn’t typically resell well
How to retain (and even improve) your used car value
Believe it or not, your used car value is dependent in large part on you and how you treat it. Here are some steps we’d recommend you take to keep that value high and extend its overall life.
1. Choose the right vehicle
If you’ve already purchased your used vehicle, this is now out of your control. But if you’re still making up your mind on what to purchase, you should consider buying a used vehicle that is proven to retain its value for longer.
The best thing to look for is historic resale values. Not all cars depreciate at the same rate, and looking at vehicle history—which you can get through services like CARFAX and Kelly Blue Book—can help identify which makes and models are most likely to retain their value for longer.
2. Perform routine maintenance on schedule
Virtually every vehicle manufacturer has a recommended maintenance schedule, generally with intervals of 10,000 or 15,000 miles. Sticking to this schedule is important to keep your vehicle in prime working condition, which decreases the strain on the mechanics and keeps them running for longer.
Routine maintenance includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and full-vehicle inspections to identify issues. If you stay on top of regular maintenance, you’ll often spot issues early, which means you can fix them before they balloon into major (i.e. expensive) problems.
Similarly, keep your vehicle’s interior and exterior clean, avoiding paint scratches, stains, or interior damage.
3. Drive carefully and avoid accidents
Obviously, vehicles with structural damage take a hit when it comes to pricing. If you want to keep your used car value from dropping like a rock, avoid accidents and drive carefully. Careful driving not only can prevent accidents but can prevent other unnecessary strains on the vehicle which add up over time.
Good driving practices for maximizing resale value include:
- Careful use of accelerator and brakes
- Avoiding potholes and other road damage
- Not parking in tight spots where bumps and scratches can happen
- Not revving the engine unnecessarily
4. Keep good records
Buyers want to know that their vehicles were kept in good condition. Keeping complete records of the vehicle’s maintenance history demonstrates that you kept up on it and gained the buyer’s confidence in its current condition.
5. Be careful how you customize
Some customizations and mods will add to the resale value, but others do the opposite. For instance, a body kit or flames painted on the side may reduce the vehicle’s appeal to the average buyer.
6. Keep mileage down
The more you drive your vehicle, the faster its value will go down. So instead of using your vehicle for that next road trip, consider getting a rental. You’ll end up saving money in the long run.
7. Buy used
Within three years, a new vehicle can lose as much as 40% of its value. If you buy used, you’ll avoid most of that depreciation.
If you’re in the market for a new (to you) used vehicle, stop by Bachrodt on State. Our competitive prices and award-winning customer service will help you find a used car that will continue offering value for years to come.
There’s nothing quite like driving a compact sedan, especially when weaving in and out of traffic or navigating busy streets. One of the more popular options on the market is the Volkswagen Jetta, with impressively high gas mileage and a surprisingly powerful engine.
To give you an idea of how it stacks up against the competition, this guide will compare the Volkswagen Jetta and Toyota Corolla so you can make the best comparison as you make your next purchase. For this article, we’ll compare the 2023 versions of these models.
Used Volkswagen Jetta features & specs
Some affectionately call the Volkswagen Jetta the Volkswagen Golf, namely because of its fun, playful driving experience. But don’t let its spry handling fool you: for a compact sedan, the Jetta packs a punch. That’s why it’s hands-down one of the best choices on the market.
If you’re buying new, the 2023 model’s Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts at $22,000 and can go up to $30,000, depending on the trim level and customizations. However, be sure to check Lou’s Price at Bachrodt on State for a clearer idea of how much you’ll spend.
Powertrain & performance
The Jetta comes with a front-wheel drive powered by a turbocharged 1.5-L four-cylinder that produces 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque and can reach 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The base model sports a six-speed manual transmission, but an eight-speed automatic is optional.
Fuel Economy
According to the EPA, the VW Jetta with the automatic transmission features 31 mpg city, 41 highway, and 35 combined. The manual changes that slightly to 29 city, 42 highway, and 34 combined. However, equipment differences may cause the EPA estimate to vary based on trim level.
Interior Features
On the inside, the Jetta sports a sophisticated design with plenty of room for passengers. High-end models include ambient interior lighting, wireless device charging, and ventilated seats. There’s plenty of cargo and storage space, especially if you drive with the back seats folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The VW Jetta features a responsive touchscreen infotainment system, and comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Not only does the system feature traditional volume and turning knobs, but its Car-Net unit allows gesture controls for swiping and pinch-to-zoom. The top two trim levels come standard with wireless charging.
Safety Features
The Jetta comes standard with forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. There’s also available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology.
Warranty & Maintenance Coverage
The VW Jetta includes a limited warranty covering four years or 50,000 miles, and a powertrain warranty covering the same period. Complimentary maintenance is also covered for two years or 20,000 miles.
Toyota Corolla Features & Specs
The 2023 Toyota Corolla offers solid competition amid the compact sedan market, with impressive power and fuel efficiency. Although it doesn’t overwhelm buyers with flashy features, there’s a lot to love here.
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for a 2023 Corolla starts at $23,000 and goes up to $28,000, depending on your trim level and other customizations.
Powertrain & Performance
The 2023 Corolla comes standard with a 2.0-L four-cylinder that produces 169 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). There’s also the option to add a hybrid powertrain, which we won’t review here.
Fuel Economy
According to the EPA, the regular gasoline Toyota Corolla offers 32 mpg city and 41 highway, coming out to a 35 mpg combined. This makes it comparable to the Volkswagen Jetta.
Interior Features
On the inside, the Corolla features a streamlined dashboard and comfortable materials that are soft to the touch. Most models come with passive entry and push-button start. There’s also the option to add ambient interior lighting, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. The sedan also offers less interior cargo storage than competitors like the VW Jetta.
Infotainment & connectivity
The Corolla comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that runs Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard, as well as a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. There are also plenty of hard buttons and turning knobs to keep drivers’ eyes on the road and everyone in the vehicle safe. There’s also the option to add wireless charging and a state-of-the-art JBL audio system.
Safety features
The Corolla comes with a range of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assists, and adaptive cruise control.
Warranty & maintenance coverage
Toyota offers a competitive warranty package, with a limited warranty covering three years or 36,000 miles, and a powertrain warranty covering five years or 60,000 miles. Corolla drivers also receive complimentary maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles.
Final thoughts on the Volkswagen Jetta vs Toyota Corolla
Our final verdict on the Volkswagen Jetta vs Toyota Corolla: the Jetta comes out just ahead, namely due to its spacious interior and solid fuel economy. Plus, when comparing base models, the Jetta is a bit more affordable.
If you’re trying to choose between these options, stop by Bachrodt on State and our team will walk through your needs and help you find the perfect vehicle at a competitive price. Schedule your next appointment today.
How to Maximize Your Vehicle Resale Value
Whether you just bought a new vehicle, or you’re looking to upgrade in the near future, at some point you’ll need to maximize your vehicle resale value.
Believe it or not, you don’t need to undertake major repairs to make this happen. Small, consistent steps can have outsized effects on the car’s long-term value. Read on for our tips on how to get the best vehicle resale value, starting now.
Why maximize your vehicle resale value?
No vehicle lasts forever. Eventually, you’ll need to buy something new. Whether you’re trading in or selling for cash, you’ll want to get the most out of your vehicle resale so you can apply it to your next ride.
But you may be thinking: That’s several years in the future, so I don’t have to think about it now, do I? And the answer is: you absolutely should! In fact, the farther in the future your resale, the more time you have to take those baby steps to keep it in tip-top shape. The faster you take care of small issues, the less likely they’ll balloon into major (read: expensive) problems.
What common factors impact vehicle resale value?
Before we get into our recommendations, let’s run over the major factors most likely to impact the value of your vehicle.
Make and model
A luxury car will resell at a higher price than a low-end sedan. Certain logos also carry more value over a longer period, due to their reputation for reliability.
Vehicle condition
The condition of the car is probably the most important factor within your control. Vehicles with regular maintenance and service, cleanliness, interior surface quality, and a clean vehicle history are likely to sell far better than one needing immediate repair.
Mileage and age
The longer you own a vehicle and the more you drive it, the lower its resale value. However, there are exceptions to the rule. A high age but low mileage isn’t as impactful, and age can become a selling point if the car is a classic.
Modifications and customizations
Modifying your vehicle can be both a good or bad thing. Technological upgrades—like Bluetooth, infotainment, and advanced safety features—are in high demand and likely will have a positive impact. Other modifications like tinted windows, body kits, decals, bumper stickers, etc. generally lower the vehicle resale value. The more specific a given modification, the narrower the appeal, and the more negatively it can impact its value.
7 tips to maximize your vehicle resale value
Let’s now dive into our top seven recommendations for maximizing vehicle resale value. Most of these involve simple baby steps you can start taking today. In fact, the sooner you get started, the more likely your vehicle will resell at a higher rate.
1. Regular scheduled maintenance and upkeep
The number one way to increase your vehicle resale value is to schedule regular maintenance and upkeep. If you can stay on top of problems when they’re small, you can keep them from becoming bigger and more expensive.
Common maintenance practices include:
- Regular oil changes
- Air filter replacement
- Checking fluid levels
- Tire inspection and rotation
- Wheel alignment and balancing
- Brake inspection
- Battery maintenance
- Spark plug replacement
- Cooling system maintenance
- Inspection lights and signals
- Windshield wiper replacement
- Regular cleaning and waxing
- Checking suspension system
- Other manufacturer-recommended maintenance
Also, if you have any dents or scratches that come up, make sure you take care of them immediately. Otherwise, they can worsen and become difficult to fix when you’re ready to polish up your vehicle.
2. Replace your tires
Regular tire inspection and maintenance can not only improve short-term vehicle performance, but help improve its resale value. During the life of your vehicle, you should stay on top of tire replacement. And when it comes time to sell, do one final replacement.
3. Proper documentation
Any documentation you have should be properly stored and organized outside the vehicle. This includes the vehicle’s title, purchase receipts, finance contract, service records, owner’s manuals, and window sticker.
This is especially important as regular servicing and maintenance can increase vehicle resale value—but only if you can prove it. Plus, it demonstrates to the buyer that you care about the vehicle, making it more likely for the purchase to go through.
For best results, you should do your repairs at a certified dealership that reports to CARFAX or AutoCheck, so these reports are automatically included in those reports and provide an online backup.
4. Safe driving
The safer your driving habits, the less abuse your car will take. If you end up in an accident, it will hinder (if not eliminate) the odds of a high-value sale. What’s more, a damaged chassis can cause more fluid leaks, faster oil burnoff, and premature parts failure. In some cases, we’re talking about a 2-4X increase in price due to careful handling.
5. Maintain a clean interior
Don’t smoke inside your vehicle. It causes unpleasant odors to be embedded in your interior, which are difficult and expensive to remove. Also, keep eating and drinking to a minimum, as spilled food or beverages cause additional stains and odors.
Finally, if pets will regularly travel with you, make sure you have pet-friendly solutions like upholster mats to keep unnecessary and unwanted scratches from happening.
6. Choose modifications and customizations carefully
As mentioned above, modifications and customizations go both ways. Choose carefully, and keep the long-term resale value of your vehicle in mind.
7. Choose the best place to resell
Finally, make sure you do your research before reselling your vehicle. You’ll want to keep track of current market trends to make sure now is the best time to sell. It’s also a good idea to sell your vehicle to your local dealer. That way, if you want to trade in for a newer model, it’s a quick and simple process.
Final thoughts on maximizing your vehicle resale value
Maximizing vehicle resale value isn’t a one-time process. It involves careful treatment over the course of the vehicle’s life. Start now, and you can see outsized results when the time comes to make a change.
Are you ready to sell your vehicle now? Visit our website and we’ll help you figure out how much your vehicle is worth.
If you’re looking for an affordable sedan with solid features, a Chevrolet Malibu could be a good fit. Among our used car lineup, the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LS and LT both are exceptional trim levels that maintain performance over time.
Among these features are an upscale interior, quiet cabin, and comfortable ride. But don’t think those benefits come at the expense of engine performance. The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu features a strong, turbocharged engine that’s perfect for both city driving and cruising down the highway.
Let’s dive into the model and trim levels to help you make the best choice, as well as demonstrate the benefits of purchasing a Chevrolet Pre-Owned vehicle.
What’s to love about the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LS & LT?
The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu came two years after a major redesign, so this model featured no significant exterior changes compared with previous models. The inside, however, is another story. The Malibu comes with a Wi-Fi connection hub, as well as a 4G LTE subscription data plan.
Among the features carried over from previous years are the Malibu’s classy interior design, quiet cabin, and spacious trunk. It offers a fuel-efficient four-cylinder 2.0-L engine with 259 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, as well as an automatic transmission and 18.5-in wheelbase. In terms of fuel economy, the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu mpg sits at a solid 29 combined.
Inside, the Malibu includes an upscale design, quality materials, and impressive sound insulation. Its infotainment system includes a touchscreen as well as numerous dials and buttons, which help drivers keep their eyes on the road and enhance vehicle safety.
In terms of storage, the 2015 Malibu offers ample trunk space, roughly 16.3 cubic feet. Even among today’s sedans, this feature is impressive. It rivals not only fellow sedans, but also even some SUVs on the market.
In terms of the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LS vs. LT, here are some comparisons between the two trim levels:
- The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LS is the base model, although it still includes powerful features. These include the OnStar System, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system.
- The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LT specs vary based on the sub-trims chosen. The 1LT includes heated mirrors and a 7.0-in touch screen. The 2LT adds fog lamps and 18-inch alloy wheels. The 3LT upgrades its engine and can achieve up to 30 mpg on the highway.
Finally, the Malibu includes numerous safety features that can be added on, including overhead and side airbags, a blind spot monitoring system, lane departure warning, parking sensors, and a rearview camera.
2015 Chevrolet Malibu fuel economy
In terms of fuel economy, the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu varies based on trim level. Here’s a breakdown:
- LT. 21 mpg city and 30 highway
- LTZ. 21 mpg city and 30 highway
- LS. 25 mpg city and 36 highway
The benefits of buying a Chevy pre-owned vehicle
Many buyers looking for an affordable sedan will weigh the pros and cons of purchasing a used or pre-owned vehicle. We highly recommend choosing a vehicle with GM’s Certified Pre-Owned badge. This not only guarantees the vehicle’s condition and quality upon your initial purchase, but includes a robust benefits package to cover you over the first few years of your ownership.
GM’s Certified Pre-Owned vehicles undergo a strict evaluation process. All vehicles with this badge must meet the following criteria:
- Less than six model years of age
- Have a maximum of 75,000 miles
- Pass a 172-point vehicle inspection and reconditioning process
- Complete all safety recalls
- Include a free CARFAX (or comparable) vehicle history report
- Clean title
Chevrolet CPO vehicles also include a robust benefits package that takes effect the minute you drive off the lot. This package includes two warranties: a 6-year or 100,000 mile (whichever comes first) powertrain limited warranty, as well as a 12-month, 12,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty.
What’s more, when you buy a CPO vehicle, you automatically get two maintenance visits within two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. These visits can include oil and filter changes, tire rotations, and multi-point inspection, and can easily take place at your local Bachrodt on State dealership.
Finally, GM’s CPO program includes full Roadside Assistance for the duration of your powertrain limited warranty. Each vehicle comes equipped with OnStar hardware and is eligible for a free trial, which includes Automatic Crash Response, Advanced Diagnostics, Roadside Assistance and Turn-by-Turn Navigation.
Considering purchasing a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LS or LT
Given the excellent features, comfortable interior, fuel economy, and affordable price of both the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LS and LT, either is an excellent choice for your next vehicle purchase. Add in the benefits of buying a CPO Chevy, and it’s a no-brainer!
The only way to purchase a Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, including the Malibu, is by purchasing it at a certified Chevy dealership. Stop by Bachrodt on State, and our team will be more than happy to help walk you through your vehicle, maintenance, and financing options.
Schedule an appointment with the Bachrodt on State team today.
If you are in the market for a used car, truck, or SUV, then Bachrodt On State is the place for you. Our dealership has over 100 used vehicles ready for you to come in and test drive. Learn more about the benefits of buying a used vehicle, and some of the types of Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC vehicles we have available at our dealership.
Reasons to Buy a Pre-Owned Vehicle
There are plenty of reasons to purchase a pre-owned vehicle. Buying a used car can save you money in several ways. First, the initial cost of a used vehicle is typically lower than that of a brand-new one. This means you may be able to afford a higher trim level or model that would have been out of your budget if buying new. This is a great way to get modern car features at a lower price.
Additionally, used cars often have lower insurance and registration costs. Since the value of a used car is typically lower than a new one, the insurance premiums are usually lower as well. Another way buying a used car can save you money is through depreciation.
New cars lose a significant amount of their value within the first few years of ownership, while used cars have already experienced this initial drop in value. This means you may be able to sell the used car for a similar price to what you paid for it, making it a more financially sound investment in the long run.
2019 Chevrolet Equinox LS
The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox LS is a four-door SUV that gets great gas mileage. It uses a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine and 6-speed automatic transmission to get you where you need to go. It gets an estimated 26/32 MPG. Used vehicles we have available at our dealership always vary in the available color. For this 2019 Chevy Equinox LS, we have it in a Mosiac Black Metallic with a Medium Ash Gray.
As mentioned earlier, used vehicles are a great way to enjoy modern features at lower prices. The 2019 Equinox LS, has a keyless ignition, keyless entry, rearview camera, and more. It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with Bluetooth connectivity. A key safety feature of this vehicle is StabiliTrak, which. Lastly, this vehicle is teen driver configurable and you can create a specific driver setting to promote a safe environment for your new driver.
2021 Buick Encore Preferred
The 2021 Buick Encore Preferred is another great option for a pre-owned SUV. The vehicle gets an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 23/30 MPG for city and highway driving. It uses a 4-cylinder, 1.4L, turbocharged engine to cruise through the roads of Rockford. The 2021 Encore Preferred that we have available has less than 70K miles. This can vary and it is best to reach out to our knowledgeable and friendly staff at Bachrodt On State to learn more about the mileage on a used vehicle you are interested in.
There are quite a few standout features you will have access to in this 2021 SUV. This is an all-wheel drive vehicle which gives you added capabilities on the road. The keyless ignition and entry system make hopping in your car and driving even easier. This vehicle has a Bluetooth-compatible entertainment system with 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot capability.
Shop for Used and Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles in Rockford, IL
Bachrodt On State stands out as your premier destination when it comes to purchasing a high-quality, pre-owned vehicle. Whether you’re in the market for a fuel-efficient SUV like the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox LS, or the technologically advanced and comfortable 2021 Buick Encore Preferred, our extensive selection promises something for every type of driver.
By opting for a used vehicle, you not only enjoy modern amenities at a fraction of the cost but also benefit from lower insurance and registration fees, all while making a financially savvy investment. Visit us today and let our friendly staff help you find the perfect vehicle that meets all your needs and expectations.
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