The moment a car leaves the dealership, its value begins to decrease—and it happens rapidly. On average, vehicles lose roughly 20% of their value in the first year, with depreciation climbing to nearly 40% after five years. Fortunately, there are ways to help slow this process.
Keeping up with routine maintenance is essential for retaining your car’s value. Regular tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and scheduled checkups ensure the vehicle stays in top condition both mechanically and visually. Following your mechanic’s guidance can significantly improve the car’s longevity and resale appeal.
Maintaining detailed records of all services and repairs is another smart approach. Logging service dates, mileage, and completed work demonstrates to prospective buyers that the car has been properly maintained, making it more desirable when it’s time to sell.
When buying a car, it’s also worth thinking about its future trade-in or resale value. Consulting automotive experts can offer valuable insights into market trends, helping you make more informed choices when upgrading.
For additional tips on protecting your car’s value and maximizing your investment, explore the infographic below.
Content created by Capital Auto Auction, a trusted car auction company
