Protect Your Investment
Isn’t it ironic that if we had $15,000 in cash in the bank or shares we would probably spend some time considering how we could look after that investment and ideally grow it? Why is it that when we invest $15,000 into a car that same approach can vary dramatically? From never cleaning or maintaining your vehicle, to the other extreme which is being fanatical, there is actually not many people at this end of the scale!
Most Kiwi’s tend to change cars approximately every 3 years. The reasons for the change are as many as there are cars on the road. Whatever your reason, it doesn’t matter.
It's not until it’s time to get rid of the old car that we think “I should have looked after it better!” It is then that we realise what the best trade in or sale price for our car is. Or not. The question is what can I do. The answer depends on you, but here are some simple and basic ways to protect your investment and probably make your motoring experience a little more enjoyable!!
Do you remember when you first bought your car? How it smelt? How clean it was?
Here are simple things you can do:
- Clean once a week.
- Protect the interior plastic by parking the vehicle in the shade, use a window deflector screen, and apply a UV protectant to prevent the plastic and vinyl from drying out.
- Avoid parking under trees to avoid damage from birds. The results of this can destroy paint.
- Wash your car regularly, ideally weekly.
- Wash in the shade, not direct sunlight.
- The object is to remove dirt and grime.
- Do not use household cleaners. The popular dishwashing liquid is a big NO NO!
- Instead, buy car wash from your garage or automotive store.
- View car cleaning products.
- Dry your car with a chamois.
- Apply liquid polish wax. Easy to apply, just spray.
- Use a clean cloth to wipe off and buff.
- Vacuum the interior.
If this all sounds too hard here are some other less strenuous options:
- Get the kids to do it!!
- Go to a car wash.
- Get a professional groomer. View car wash services.
So it's up to you.