Working in the used car industry means you will be working with vehicles that may come with some very high odometer readings. This could be a difficult selling point for some customers, but pairing a good price with some tips customers can follow to extend the life of their new car may be the combination you need to move your more difficult inventory.

What kind of tips should you recommend?

Maintenance Tips:

• Find a reputable auto shop with certified mechanics. If you have your own repair shop, this is a great time to let your customer know and possibly pair the vehicle with a warranty.
• Make sure the battery terminal connection points are secure and clear the terminals to prevent corrosion.
• Replace your brake pads every 25,000 – 50,000 miles.
• Get regular alignments and replace tires for proper inflation and abnormal wear. Tires need to be replaced when tread wears down to 2/32 of an inch.
• Pay attention to any strange noises or new vibrations and immediately heed any warning lights on the dashboard.
• Use the appropriate fuel recommended for your vehicle and stick with the oil change intervals outlined by the manufacturer.
• Make sure to top off all fluids regularly. This includes items such as power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, windshield wiper fluid, etc.

Driving Tips:

• Accelerate and brake steadily.
• Drive your car regularly and do not let the engine idle for extended periods.
• Use parking brake on steep hills.
• Store your car in a garage or covered area when it’s not in use to protect it from the elements.
• For manual transmissions, keep your foot off the clutch pedal while driving to preserve the clutch plate.

Cleaning Tips:

• Wash your car regularly with a mild car detergent and a soft cloth or sponge and make sure to dry your car thoroughly after each wash to prevent water spots and streaks.
• Apply wax or sealant to protect the paint from UV rays and oxidation.
• Clean the windows, mirrors, and headlights regularly so that you have clear visibility to ensure safer driving.
• Clean and apply a shine product to your tires regularly to help prevent fading and cracking.
• Wipe down interiors often and if interior is leather, make sure to use a cleaner designed to keep the material soft and protected.

While purchasing a higher mileage vehicle may seem like a burden to some, it can bring a lot of pride to the right customer that is dedicated to getting the most out of it. Having a Service department that runs like a well-oiled machine will aid in building that customer’s confidence when purchasing these vehicles. A dealer management system such as Deal Pack Service & Parts will help bring out the best in your service department!