Vancouver Sun

Make that old car as good as new

A simple upgrade or good cleaning could be all your vehicle needs

- BLAIR QUALEY Blair Qualey is president and CEO of the New Car Dealers Associatio­n of BC. You can email him at bqualey@newcardeal­ers.ca.

So your car is starting to look a little tired, but it’s not in your budget yet to buy a new one? Sometimes all it takes is a makeover to get you excited about driving it again.

There are a number of ways you can refresh your car or truck with easy upgrades, including something as simple as cleaning out the grime compoundin­g in the cup holders, or something more elaborate such as new upholstery for the interior.

For most people, cleaning the house isn’t much fun. For car lovers, it can be a different story. There’s nothing like washing and waxing the vehicle on an easy summer day, and making those rims shine like they once did.

If you don’t want to do it yourself, there’s often a car wash benefit happening on the weekend somewhere nearby. Not only do you drive away with a fresh-looking vehicle, but it is also a chance to give back to the community.

Many new car dealers also offer detailing services to get your car clean and shiny, inside and out.

If your vehicle is in need of more than just a spit and shine, you may want to consider redoing the interior. Over the years, seats can get worn, stained and may even rip. When a seat cover isn’t enough, consider getting them reupholste­red.

Depending on how old your vehicle is, you may even want to consider changing the floor or centre console. Maybe you don’t have enough space to hold cups or your wallet and spare change. An upgrade can make room for more of these items.

Your vehicle makeover doesn’t have to be cosmetic though. Maybe the latest stereo system will bring new life to your commute, or a new navigation system. Tinting the windows will not only make your car look cool, but it will also keep the temperatur­e down in the summer.

These are just some of the ways you can spruce up your car or truck. It will get you excited about driving again, as well as increase your car’s value when it comes time to sell.

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