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Are you thinking of buying a new wheelchair accessible car , equipped with all the comforts and new technologies, but you don’t know how many years you will use it? Don’t be afraid: there is a good demand for used wheelchair accessible cars in Italy.
In this article we explain how to keep the resale value of your disabled transport vehicle high.
Perform regular checks and inspections
The condition of the base vehicle is crucial to determining the value of your wheelchair car. This is why it is important to perform regular maintenance and checks.
Being able to show documentation of servicing and inspections to a potential buyer or dealer will help you keep the price higher.
Keep your adaptations in good condition
Potential buyers of your wheelchair accessible vehicle will obviously be interested in the state of the adaptations.
Check the adjustments regularly; make sure that obstructions, such as leaves and gravel, do not prevent the mechanisms from operating properly, and lubricate the moving parts at least twice a year.
If you notice that some components, such as ramps or anchoring systems, are not working well, go to a disabled car dealership.
Do not do DIY repairs on a disabled car
If your car has been involved in a car accident, go to a disabled car dealer. Do not attempt to repair the damage yourself; you may cause further problems.
If your handicapped car looks like it was repaired by doing a DIY job, the value of the vehicle will quickly drop, because a buyer might think that you have done everything you could to save on maintenance costs.
Wash and clean your car regularly
While washing and maintaining your car may seem like a waste of time, it is important to do it regularly if you want to sell it sooner or later. Dirt builds up, fabrics fade, mats wear out, and some stains can become permanent over time.
That’s why you should try to thoroughly clean your car at least twice a year. And if you notice a stain, clean it as soon as possible to prevent it from becoming stubborn.
Cover the seats
To keep your seat fabrics clean and vibrant, invest in seat covers; especially if you are transporting children or pets. Seat covers will protect the fabrics from dirt, hair, food or drink stains, dust, sunlight and more.
Avoid smoking or eating on board
The smell of smoke permeates fabrics, so if you don’t want to discourage a non-smoking buyer, avoid smoking in the car, especially with the windows closed.
If possible, do not eat on board to avoid staining the seats, giving the impression to potential buyers that you have not taken good care of your vehicle. Alternatively, use napkins to catch crumbs and spills.
Store your disabled car indoors
If possible, store your disabled car in a covered parking lot or garage to protect it from weather events such as hail. Even minor cosmetic damage can reduce the value of your disabled car.
Avoid narrow parking spaces and unsafe areas
To avoid finding cosmetic damage when you return to your car, do not park in tight spots and in unsafe areas. Not everyone takes care of parking well and if you leave your car in unsafe areas, you may find the windows broken or the lock picked.
Drive with caution
To keep all the systems of the base vehicle in good condition, drive carefully. Avoid reckless overtaking, sudden braking and potholes. Change gear when the trip computer advises you to do so and keep the engine revs low to avoid straining the engine and save fuel.
Careful driving will also help you avoid accidents, which can reduce the value of a disabled car.
Allied Mobility is a disabled car dealer and Europe’s leading accessible vehicle manufacturer. Discover our range of disabled cars designed to best suit your needs, whether you are a passenger or a driver.
