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A recent article in Auto Remarketing listed the top 15 vehicles that owners keep for 10 years. It touted the statistical analysis of over 395,000 used vehicles that were sold by their original owner during the first six months of this year. Collectively these vehicles were 2005 model year and were now being sold in favor of newer models.

According to the article buyers can find strong value in older pre-owned vehicles that are sold by the original owner. These cars tend to be “well-kept and in good condition” and have had regular maintenance and repairs. They are in good overall condition and show no sign of wear or neglect.

Easier said than done……..or is it?

Vehicle condition at any mileage is no secret. It‘s all about maintenance. It begins with following the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended service and maintenance intervals published in the owner’s manual and ends in accessorizing the vehicle with products that will make it easier to maintain based on the usage pattern. Here are some of the most basic accessories readily available that help maintain a vehicle’s good condition.

Paint Protectant: There are literally hundreds of paint protectant finishes on the market that range from one time applications with 6 month reapplication intervals to full on clear and decorative vinyl appliques that keep the nose and hood from rock chips and insects.

Windshield Protectant: Much like the protectants that prevent paint chips and keep finishes like new, these state-of-the-art technology products have been developed to provide clear vision through the windshield and windows of the vehicle in all driving conditions. Protective coatings actually fill-in the microscopic peaks and valleys in the glass making it much smoother and resisting mud, snow, ice, and water from sticking. These nanotechnology products are easily applied and even come with warranties.

Short of projection, but ahead of 2014 numbers, light-vehicle sales continue to rise. Carmakers Fiat Chrysler, Honda, Nissan and Toyota lead the way. According to a report from AutoNews.com, sales climbed 3.9% in June 2014. This trend continues a banner year for light vehicles. June numbers registered below May’s, but above the same month in 2014.

Dealerships lease new vehicles at a greater pace than ever. It's a trend no one from finance to insurance to accessories can afford to ignore. Global information services company Experian revealed a record 31.46% new-car transactions come as leases. The Q2 mark eclipses the 30.22% reported in Q1. Average lease payments dropped in Q2 to $405, $7 less than the same quarter in 2014. Other data from the report gave shape to a movement of larger scope.

So how different are Millenial consumers' spending habits when compared to the Boomer or Silent generation? Research says Millennials aren’t spending as much as their grandparents. It’s getting close, though.

Buying a 2015 model is a much different ballgame than it was in 1995. Or even in 2005.

Strides in commerce in general push retail sales to a quicker, simpler, user-friendly experience. That stands in contrast to the customary model for the auto industry, which relied on a sales force jockeyed for customers in an experience that moved at the dealership’s pace.

Convenience and entertainment are fine in a new vehicle. Consumers want safety technology most, though, according to a J.D. Power study. J.D. Power is a marketing information services firm. Its inaugural U.S. Tech Choice Study identified five car technologies customers want most. Three relate to safety features, especially collision protection. Auto makers must focus on safety as driving autonomy becomes mainstream.

Dolby surround sound isn’t the only must-have accessory in your new car. New autos often feature onboard Wi-Fi. It’s like your home Internet network. It can connect devices inside and outside your vehicle. This connectivity can do more than check baseball scores or give you social-media access.

Fiat Chrysler will raise vehicle invoice prices, but not retail prices, it announced. It's a move that could crimp profits for U.S. dealerships.

How is Elon Musk impacting your business and life? This innovative genius behind pioneer companies such as PayPal, SpaceX, Tesla Motors, and SolarCity, is making big strides in the automotive world. Musk, who is not only Tesla’s CEO, but also their Chief Product Architect, took on consumer concerns of the vehicles range, head on. Tesla Motors rose to the challenge, and brought us over 100 Supercharger charging stations to North America alone. Tesla’s Supercharger allows owners to travel for free between cities along well-traveled highways. That’s right--for free!

Microsoft and West Coast Customs know what people fantasize about--how about your dealership? Today’s car enthusiast get excited about three things; cars, technology, and customization via accessories. A few years back, Project Detroit was created to appeal to consumer's love of personalization. Project Detroit is a fantasy 2012 Ford Mustang retro fitted with a 67’ Mustang  Fastback body. (One of the most popular Mustangs manufactured)  The car is loaded with Microsoft technology like the Xbox 360, Windows Phone and a Viper SmartStart app that can start the car using the phone. It’s not just a Gen yers dream but the body style appeals to an older generation as well!