Sellers beware these costly mistakes -- Cosmetic damage can knock hundreds of pounds off asking price -- Smoking in the car is a no-no -- Shiny and scratch free alloy wheels will increase appeal Alloy wheel protection specialist - AlloyGator - is advising motorists how best to look after their cars so they get a top price when selling it. Cosmetic damage, including alloy wheels scuffs and scrapes, is one of the main offenders that can quickly knock hundreds of pounds off the asking price. Curt Rathbone, managing director at AlloyGator, explained “A major consideration in determining a vehicle’s worth is the interior and exterior condition. For instance, scuffed wheels are an instant turn-off for many buyers “Fitting AlloyGators provide major protection for alloy wheels and can pay for themselves many times over when compared to the cost of getting alloys replaced or repaired, never mind how much value the car might lose if the wheels are covered with scuffs, scrapes and dents.” It has been estimated that damage to alloy wheels can mean as much as £150 per wheel taken off the value, while a damaged windscreen can devalue a car by as much as £300. Other ways to protect the exterior condition of the car include keeping it in a garage to protect it from the elements, waxing the vehicle a few times a year and washing it regularly. Easy tips to keep the interior in tip-top condition for selling include not smoking in the vehicle as cigarette smoke is incredibly difficult to remove or cover up, plus investing in car seat covers to help protect the leather or cloth. What goes on underneath the bonnet can also massively reduce how much a car will sell for but regular servicing can stop small engine issues becoming big issues. It’s just as important to keep a record of the car’s maintenance schedule to give extra reassurance to potential buyers. Regular oil changes can also prevent major engine problems, while overlooking unusual engine sounds can also be a costly mistake. “There are many very simple and effective ways that car owners can look after their cars in preparation for when they come to sell, even just by keeping mileage to a minimum. “How a car looks can also be a deal breaker, especially shiny alloy wheels that add lustre and potential value. A little time spent cleaning out the dirt and grime from the wheels can pay dividends, while fitting AlloyGators will protect from kerbside scuffs and scrapes,” added Curt. Available in 15 colours and in ‘original’ 13” - 21” or ‘exclusive’ 12” – 24”, AlloyGators are compatible with most wheel types and combinations. The patented super-tough nylon protection system sits between the alloy wheel and tyre, reducing the risk of damage to the rim caused by scuffs on kerbs or potholes. Extending the life of alloy wheels, AlloyGators save motorists time and money on expensive repairs to their wheels. To find out more about AlloyGator visit www.alloygator.com
BBC programme Money for Nothing has got in touch with love:mini to offer readers the opportunity to own one of its bespoke and unique pieces created for the next upcoming series. Fashioned from a new MINI bonnet, British artisan - Rag 'n' Bone man - has created this item as something for the home or garage. Unsurprisingly, this is marketed as an 'indoor' bench! Perhaps the rusty reputation of Minis still dominates the mind of non enthusiasts! The bench can seat two people, and is held in place by two large Aston Martin brake discs, while the headlight apertures have been filled with 4mm aluminum plating. Dimensions:
Length of seat from right to left: 163cm
Width of seat from back to front: 72cm
Back of seat height: 87cm If you fancy this lovely piece of artwork... the production company still has it for sale, and it could be yours for a tidy... £1,295 ono. Is it worth that? And if it is... we'd all better get into our garages/shed and start welding some scrap together to flog! Anyone who is interested in parting with their cash for this unique item should contact Jen on 0141 370 0461, or you can email at jen@frielkeanfilms.com
The new TVS900 Supercharger Kit is the result of an exhaustive research and development process aimed at delivering an affordable solution for R53 Mini Cooper S owners who are seeking greater performance or a direct replacement for the factory fitted M45 Supercharger.
MINI model range updated with enhanced cockpit instrument design
More precise fuel level display, and new control system for MINI Driving Modes and MINI Head-Up Display
Introduction of Apple CarPlay on MINI Countryman and MINI Clubman
Alertness assistant introduced on MINI 3-door Hatch, MINI 5-door Hatch and MINI Convertible
The MINI brand is further enhancing the appeal of its model line-up in summer 2017 with a range of new design, functionality and infotainment improvements.
Royal-warranted car-care expert Autoglym has made weekend driveway life even easier with the release of its fabulous new app for iPhone, Android and windows devices. Packed full of useful tips, product advice and all manner of interesting social features, this app is perfect for everyone who is passionate about their car, whether they’re a ‘quick wash on a Sunday’ type – or a detailing obsessive.
With the purchase of Original BMW and MINI Tyres or complete wheel sets with star marking, customers automatically receive the new BMW and MINI Tyre Insurance for 36 months free-of-charge. The insurance provides 100-per-cent reimbursement of tyre costs for damage in the first 12 months. With this approach, the BMW Group is setting a new standard in the marketplace.
Bumpers are the unsung heroes of the automotive world, aren’t they? Protecting us from minor traffic altercations, filling in the gaps between the headlights and the road, and giving automotive TV presenters somewhere to rest their feet during that all-important closing link. To celebrate their general awesomeness, Royal-warranted car-care maestros Autoglym have unleashed a fabulous new concoction to keep them - and any other plastic trim on your motor – in tip top condition.
