What maintenance keeps my resale value high?
Follow the manufacturer's schedule for oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, tire rotations every 5,000 miles, and brake checks. These steps keep most vehicles in top shape and help you get 10% more at resale. Keep all service records to show buyers you cared for the car.
Key Maintenance Tasks
Stick to these routines to protect value:
| Task | Frequency | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Oil and filter change | Every 5,000-7,500 miles | Keeps engine smooth, prevents breakdowns buyers hate |
| Tire rotation and alignment | Every 5,000 miles | Ensures even wear, improves safety and look |
| Brake inspection | Every 10,000 miles or yearly | Stops costly fixes, shows reliability |
| Fluid top-offs (coolant, transmission, brake) | Every 10,000 miles | Maintains performance, avoids major issues |
| Air filter and battery check | Every 12,000 miles | Boosts efficiency, extends life |
Do these on time. Many drivers skip them and lose thousands at trade-in.
Keep Detailed Records
Save receipts for every service. Buyers check logs first. A full history builds trust and raises offers. Store them digitally or in a folder. Sidekick tracks your maintenance score to show real owner data.
Clean and Fix Small Issues Fast
Wash your car weekly. Wax every 3 months to guard paint. Vacuum inside often to stop stains. Fix dents, chips, or scratches right away. Clean wheels shine at sale time. Neglect here drops value fast.
Drive Smart to Support Maintenance
Avoid hard brakes and fast starts. They wear brakes and tires quicker. Park in shade to save paint from sun in places like 94188. These habits cut repair needs.
Quick Action Steps
- Check your owner's manual today for the exact schedule.
- Book your next oil change now.
- Start a maintenance folder with all papers.
- Wash and wax this weekend.
- Use Sidekick to monitor your vehicle's health score based on real owner data as of February 2026.
Owners who do this routine keep vehicles worth $1,500 to $3,000 more at resale. Stay on top of it. Your wallet thanks you.