What To Do (and Not To Do) To Retain Your Car's Value

 

Owning a car is a big responsibility, and it's essential to keep it in good condition and maintain its value. Whether or not you're planning on selling your vehicle, it's important to know what affects its value so you can make the best decisions for your investment. Liberty Buick GMC shares some simple tips on what to do (and not to do) to help retain your car's value.

Get regular tune-ups and oil changes.

Taking care of your car is one of the most important investments you can make. Regular tune-ups and oil changes help to ensure that your engine works at full capacity for years to come. During a tune-up, mechanics will inspect your engine for any signs of wear and tear that must be attended to for it to continue running smoothly. Oil changes are also critical as they remove any contaminants that build up over time in the engine and lead to a decline in performance.

Don't smoke in your car.

Smoking in your car is not only a nasty and smelly habit, but it can also be an expensive one! The smell will stay around long after you're done smoking, which may turn off potential buyers if you ever plan to sell your car. Plus, it can affect the overall value of the car. In fact, studies have shown that smokers looking to resell their cars may be looking at anywhere from a 10-25% drop in value due to the smell lingering.

 

So not only is it bad for your current passengers' health and well-being, but it can also cost you money down the road when it's time to sell. Keep everyone safe and healthy by not smoking in your car - no one wants to ride in an "ashtray on wheels."

Keep your car clean, both inside and out.

Cleaning your car is an important part of regular maintenance. Regularly caring for your vehicle's interior and exterior will make it more pleasant to ride in and keep it in like-new condition for years to come. There’s no easier way to show how much you care about your car than by eliminating dirt, grime, and other debris from its interior and exterior surfaces. Remember, a messy car is not just unattractive — it is a sign of neglect — so don’t leave the cleaning until later!

Avoid parking in direct sunlight.

Taking care of your car's exterior can seem like a daunting task, but there are some easy steps you can take to ensure it looks presentable and stays in its best condition. For example, try not to park in direct sunlight. Sitting outside for long periods of time under the hot sun can cause fading and sun damage to various parts of your car like the trim, dashboard, and interior plastics; whenever you have the option, opt for a spot that doesn't get too much sun exposure.

Don't modify your car too much.

It can be awfully tempting to go all out when it comes to modifying your car. But remember, the more you change, the less value your car will have when it comes time to sell it. A few cosmetic changes here and there shouldn't do too much harm, but keeping things simple is ideal. Even if certain major features look great and sound cool on paper, they could end up costing you in the long run if they decrease the resale value of your car.

Be careful with how you use your car.

Driving too hard or pushing your car beyond its limits can be a costly decision in the short and long term. Your vehicle is designed to operate within specific parameters, beyond which it may not reach the same level of performance you are used to and may even break down.

 

That's why it is essential to drive responsibly and follow the manufacturer's instructions for regular maintenance. Keeping an eye on your speedometer gauge, refraining from aggressive driving (i.e. sudden stops and acceleration), and adhering to general road safety rules will help ensure that your car lasts longer and performs at its full potential with fewer issues along the way!

Come to Liberty Buick GMC

Resale value is crucial for anyone selling a vehicle, and maintaining your car's value starts with how you treat it today. If you need to repair any issues with your vehicle or set up a regular maintenance schedule, connect with the service center at Liberty Buick GMC. Taking care of your car means that it will take care of you, and we can make the process easier for you!

Author: Alex Watson

 

Electric or Gas? Key Considerations When Deciding What Car To Buy

 

When you're in the market for a new car, one of the primary decisions to make is buying an electric or gas-powered model. Both have their pros and cons, and it can be tough to determine which option is best for you. In this blog post, Liberty Buick GMC explores some of the key considerations when choosing between an electric and gas-powered car. 

Electric vs Gas Cars: The Basics

First, let’s go over the essential differences between electric and gas vehicles:

• Electric cars are powered by electricity from batteries, while gas cars run on gasoline.
• Electric cars are typically more expensive than gas ones but are also more efficient. That means you'll save money on fuel in the long run.
• Electric cars emit no emissions, so they're better for the environment. Gas cars produce emissions that contribute to air pollution and climate change.
• Electric cars have a shorter range than gas cars, so you'll need to plan your trips carefully. Gas cars can travel much further on a single tank of gasoline.

 

Both electric and gas cars have their pros and cons, so it's crucial to choose the right one for your needs.

Pros of Electric Cars 

Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re environmentally friendly, they’re cheaper to operate than gas cars, and they’re fun to drive. But there are some other benefits of electric cars that you may not be aware of. 

 

For instance, electric cars don’t have any emissions, so they don’t contribute to air pollution. They’re also very quiet, allowing you to enjoy a quieter ride. And since electric cars don’t have any fluids that need to be constantly replenished, they’re much easier to maintain than gas cars.

Cons of Electric Cars 

Although electric cars have many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the initial cost of the car. Electric cars can be much more expensive than traditional gas cars, making them out of reach for many buyers. 

 

It’s also worth considering that electric cars require a dedicated charging station, which can add to the overall cost. Another downside to electric cars is their range. Unlike gas cars, which can be refueled quickly and easily, electric cars can take hours to charge, and may only have a range of a few hundred miles. This can be problematic for long-distance travel or for people who live in rural areas with limited access to charging stations. 

 

Finally, electric cars can put a strain on the electrical grid. Although this is not typically a problem in well-developed countries, it can be an issue in places with less reliable power sources.

Gas Engines vs. Electric Motors 

Despite the growth of electric vehicles, a large number of car buyers still want the power and sound that comes from gas engines. Many people enjoy the experience of stepping on the gas pedal and feeling the power of the engine. This is especially the case with pickup trucks and muscle cars, where the engine's roar is an essential part of the car’s character. Not only does it provide a thrill, it also serves as a warning to other drivers that they are in for a wild ride.

 

The sound of a gas engine gives enthusiasts something to be proud of and other drivers something to respect. It’s the sound of power and performance that can’t be matched with electric vehicles. With the rise in popularity of electric cars, some drivers are worried that the unique sound of a gas engine will become less common on the roads. But fortunately for them, many car companies are looking to maintain the sound of their engines while making them more environmentally friendly.

Charging Stations and Infrastructure

The advent of electric vehicles has created a new demand for charging stations and infrastructure. While there are many different types of chargers on the market, most public charging stations use Level 2 chargers, which can charge a vehicle in three to six hours. Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers, can charge a vehicle in 30-60 minutes but are not as widely available. 

 

To support the growing number of electric vehicles, having a robust charger infrastructure in place is crucial. This includes both public and private charging stations, as well as home chargers for those who have access to off-street parking.

 

Congress recently passed a bill that allocates $5 billion in funding (over five years) to states to build up their EV charging infrastructure. Each state will undoubtedly distribute its shares differently, but the ultimate goal of the bill is for there to be EV chargers every 50 miles. And as home chargers improve by the year, now could be an excellent time to invest in an electric car. 

 

Conclusion

 

When it comes time to make a decision about what car to buy, there are many factors to consider. Some people might be swayed by the environmental benefits of electric cars, others might prefer the convenience of gas-powered vehicles. No matter which side of the debate you come down on, Liberty Buick GMC is here to help. We can connect you with our experts who can walk you through all your options and help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs. Electric or gas? The choice is yours!

Author:  Alex Watson, CCP Web Design Writer