Residents of Washington, DC know how important it is to preserve their car's resale value, whether planning to trade it in or sell it privately down the road. However, certain habits and actions can quickly diminish a vehicle's worth. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure you get top dollar when it's time to upgrade.

First, keep the mileage reasonable. Driving excessive miles each year will make the odometer climb faster than the car's value. Neglecting regular maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake service will also undermine the car's condition and reliability. Hanging onto maintenance records proves you've followed the recommended service schedule.

Other things to avoid include eating, drinking, and especially smoking inside the car, which can leave lingering odors and stains. Go easy on the aftermarket modifications, as not everyone will appreciate them. Finally, practice good driving habits around Landover – aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and curb jumping can take a toll. When you're ready to upgrade, IAD Auto's used car inventory has plenty of choices for your next vehicle.