Whether you’re looking at used cars or you’re thinking about trading in your own car on a new or a newer model, there’s one aspect of used car values that you may not readily think about.
You see, there are plenty of obvious ways to help your car retain value. For example, getting regular maintenance and service will help your car run better while you have it and help you get more when it’s time to get rid of it. The same holds true for regularly washing your car.
Still, there’s a hidden cause that can lower a vehicle’s value that you may not have thought about.
I’m talking about eating in the car. A recent survey by Kelly Blue Book and Taco Bell found that around 60 percent of people either eat in their car or allow others to eat in their car. The problem is that a messy interior, as much as a messy exterior, is likely to affect the value of a car.
Some fast food restaurants like Taco Bell are responding to this information by trying to create drive-thru food that’s easier to eat while driving and create less of a mess. Meanwhile, the auto makers are working to help develop car interiors that are more stain resistant and that can even be hosed out.
Next time you hit the drive-thru, ask yourself if the items you’re ordering will cost you money on your trade-in value down the road.