Anybody who has owned an automobile knows that a car loses resale value the second it’s driven off the lot, even though that “new car smell” may linger for hundreds of miles. We will ride the train of depreciation as the bumps, bruises, and blemishes build-up from mileage wear-and-tear. Unfortunately, certain circumstances can grind that number even lower, even if the car looks shiny and new.

Diminished Value Overview

A car accident is a big-time headache for any driver, regardless of severity. Even if nobody was physically hurt, the day is instantly wasted. Between the accident report, insurance matters, tow truck (if necessary), rental car, repairs, and just distress from the event itself, you’re in for a long, long day. Unfortunately, the fun doesn’t stop there. If a car is involved in an accident, it will likely be subjected to a diminished value loss – an extra hit on top of typical depreciation accrued from high mileage.

Basically, diminished value loss is the difference between a car’s worth before the accident and after all repairs. Diminished value depends on a few variables, including the severity of the vehicle’s crash and the car’s condition. Vehicles damaged by flooding, hail, and other “acts of God” can also lose their resale value.

Diminished Value Compensation

Fortunately, there is some light at the end of the tunnel. In all states, except for Michigan, some insurance providers allow you to file a claim up to two years after the crash (state pending) for diminished value compensation. Basically, the insurer can reimburse the loss in resale value if the following conditions are met:

• You were not the driver at fault.
• Your car is expertly proven to have a lower resale after the accident repairs than beforehand.
• The damage was caused in a vehicular crash and NOT by an “Act of God.”

Damage from wind, hail, floods, and other natural disasters can create a diminished value scenario. But, insurers will not reimburse clients for losses stemming from such repairs. Furthermore, diminished value cases are tricky to handle since there is no concrete formula for calculating such differences. You can pay a qualified expert a steep fee to review the case after the repairs were made and estimate the diminished value. However, that can be risky unless you are sure the damage costs have exceeded the expert’s fee.

Of course, receiving full compensation for the vehicle’s diminished value does not mean you’re entirely out of the resale woods. Companies like Carfax and AutoCheck compile vehicle history reports (VHRs) on millions of used cars to inform prospective buyers of accident and maintenance history. Vehicle history reports contain data from emergency departments and insurance companies, as well as repair shops, dealerships, DMV agencies, and other companies. You may be reimbursed every penny in diminished value, but selling or trading in your car may come at a hefty price from a blemished VHR.

Protection and Prevention

So, are there any measures you can take to prevent a diminished value situation from occurring? Sadly, the best advice for daily drivers is, “don’t get into an accident.” Hardly helpful, admittedly, but any accident repair – large or small – has the potential to dig into a car’s resale value. However, if you own a track-day racer alongside your day-to-day vehicle, there are some helpful hints which can save you lots of money and grief.

The first and most important rule: if you plan on buying an exotic car or a sports car for the racetrack, don’t plan on driving it to track day or the car show – plain and simple. Instead, invest in an exotic car trailer and haul your racer or vintage car to its destination.

At the bare minimum, an open hauler will be sufficient at minimizing the chances of collision damage. The tow vehicle will likely take the brunt of the crash. However, an open trailer will be useless when Mother Nature unexpectedly comes a-knocking while you’re on the road.

To ensure the utmost in protection, invest in a fully enclosed car hauler, further, one fitted with an enclosed trailer tie-down system.

When you transport your track-day toy to the motorsport complex in a custom enclosed car trailer, you can rest assured. The hauler and tow vehicle will be pelted by hail, falling branches, and other debris, but your precious cargo will be safe and sound. Furthermore, strapping the car down properly with a custom tie-down system will significantly reduce the car’s chances of dislodging and crashing into the walls in the event of an accident.

Track Days are arguably the most exciting in the life of a gearhead. Naturally, a day on the track allows enthusiasts to play with their toys as they were intended. It’s no secret that motorsport gurus put lots of love into their mechanical marvels. One would assume that most drivers want to keep their mechanical friends safe in custom built race car trailers on the way to the circuit.

Is a track day trailer necessary?

The short answer from afar: yes. You may think that you will never have a mechanical failure on the circuit, but the odds are not in your favor. Especially if you are racing with or against other drivers simultaneously. Think of the headache when your only source of transportation to and from the track is suddenly undrivable! Most likely, you’re faced with an issue deemed unfixable at the racetrack, which means an arrangement with a tow-truck is necessary.

Furthermore, cars that are the most fun on the track are typically the most challenging to drive on city streets. Road racers have stiffened suspension, hard braking, and low-profile tires. They are also stripped of most luxuries in favor of roll-cages, confinement seats, and harnesses. That’s not a combination you want on public roads, nor in stop-and-go traffic. So, why drive your rough-n-rowdy racer on roads which are already uncomfortable? Besides, wouldn’t you want to keep your track day toy running as smoothly as possible where it matters most?

What should I bring to the track?

Whether you are a novice or well-seasoned driver, there are many items necessary to enjoy a worry-free race day. Obviously, bring a certified racing helmet, even if you are just looking to set a solid lap-time without other drivers present. If you’re looking into more serious, intense forms of racing, a HANS (Head and Neck Support) system is recommended. Fire extinguishers, an air pump, and a tire pressure gauge are essential for drivers, crew, and others. A decibel meter is also crucial since most tracks have a limit on engine noise.

Along with safety gear, other accessories can help turn your track day from stressful to carefree. Spare tires are essential. Whether you plan on spending a couple of hours or an entire day, you need at least one full set of spare tires. If not, you could face an early, embarrassing end to your playtime. Extra brake pads, a jack, spare fluids and a set of automotive tools are ideal for quick repairs in the pit area. If you plan on driving with little to no company, an electric winch is a necessity.

What is the best trailer for me?

It’s easy to get excited and go down the rabbit hole of perusing all the styles, colors, and brands of race car trailers for sale. However, this question can suddenly become daunting as you will come across hundreds of varieties. If you are overwhelmed: stop and take a deep breath – the answer is not as complicated as it may seem. You will find two classes of car trailers for sale: open and enclosed. There are only a handful of factors to consider when deciding which type of track day trailer is best for you:

• What car will you drive on the track?
• How often will you race?
• At what level will you compete?
• How many accessories will you bring?

Low Profile Car Ramps

If you are on a tight budget or don’t foresee many track days, an open trailer could be sufficient. These designs are typically the cheapest among the family of car haulers – they are uncovered with little to no enclosure. Yet, a sturdy new model is enough to get the job done if you keep it maintained. Obviously, a lack of roof brings a lack of physical protection, so proceed with caution, especially if you plan on driving an expensive toy. Furthermore, if you have a car with particularly low clearance, you will need to install special ramps to create a low-approach angle. A low-profile car trailer will prevent the front end from scraping or getting stuck on the trailer ramps.

If hardcore driving is in your future, investing in a fully enclosed model with a trailer rail system is highly recommended. The more you race, the more money you will invest in your car, tools, and equipment. Naturally, a significant investment would warrant the protection and security that a fully enclosed trailer can provide, right? Yet, if you have the right tow vehicle, consider investing in a gooseneck enclosed trailer. You will have plenty of room for storage and mechanical work, and you could have a living space above the truck bed!

See our gallery of Track Day Trailers below. Do you want one for yourself? Request a quote or contact us for more information.

When most people hear the words “supercar” or “exotic,” jaw-dropping looks, wicked speeds, and lofty price tags come to mind. Rightfully so, as these hold for most new supercars, especially the latter. However, you may find some new exotics that may not crush your bank account. Of course, if you are willing to gamble on durability, a preowned supercar may be just the thing you want.

Most preowned supercars, especially those from legendary automakers like Ferrari and Lamborghini, are collector’s items and extremely expensive. Yet, there are high-performance machines out there between the realms of new and collectible – amazing cars that have depreciated but lack demand. However, if you wish to buy an exotic supercar, you may want to add an exotic car trailer to your investment. Some of these cars are impractical and painful to drive on bumpy city streets; they thrive on the racetrack!

2020 Chevrolet Corvette

 

When it comes to “bang for your buck,” the new mid-engine Chevy Corvette is king. That was not a typo either, as 2020 brings the first mid-engine version of the legendary Corvette. The base model starts at $59,995, but don’t think for a second that you’re stuck with the speed of a family SUV. You get a 6.2L, 490 horsepower V-8 engine firing you from 0-60mph around 3.0 seconds on the way to a top speed near 200mph – supercar performance for the price of a loaded Ford Explorer.

2020 Lotus Evora GT

The Evora GT is the only model that British automaker, Lotus, exports to the US market. Meaning, you will drive a truly unique car just about anywhere you go. The Evora GT houses a 3.5L, 416 horsepower V-6 engine right behind the cockpit, launching you from 0-60mph in about 4.0 seconds. It may not possess the sheer power of a Corvette, but you’re rewarded with a raw driving experience as Lotus stripped away active safety features and other luxuries. It’s not cheap at $96,950, but it’s a bargain compared to other new exotics.

2011 Porsche 911 Turbo

With a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing 520 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 3 seconds, a well-maintained 2011 Porsche 911 Turbo can compete with new supercars, especially on a track. If you do your homework, you can find a 911 Turbo under ten years old and in good condition for around $75,000. That price tag may not seem affordable to most. However, when considering that a base model 911 Carrera costs around $104,000 with much less power and consistent looks, you end up with quite the decision on your hands.

2009 Nissan GT-R

The Nissan GT-R is renowned among gearheads for its quickness, agility, and fantastic driving experience. The beating heart is a 3.8L, twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, just like that of a 2019 GT-R. However, the newest models are pushing 600 horsepower, while the 2009 GT-R can only manage 480 horsepower. Yet, you get to launch yourself from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds on route to a speed near 200 mph, and have a great time doing so! Oh, and you can find a 2009 model in good condition for around $55,000. Think about that when you find that a 2020 GT-R starts at $115,335.

2008 Maserati GranTurismo

The Maserati GranTurismo is one of the slower cars on this list with a 5.1-second 0-60 time and a top speed of only 177 mph. However, there are reasons why this model launched with a base price of $114,650. First, it was gorgeous in 2008 and will still turn heads in 2020. Plus, with all the custom color schemes available when new, you’re likely to find an ideal match among the classifieds. More importantly, you can still experience the feel and character of a new exotic in a 12-year-old GranTurismo. Best of all, you get plenty of noise coming from its 4.2L V-8 engine, lightning-quick gear changes, and smooth, pinpoint handling – all for under $42,000.

2008 Audi R8

With a top speed of 187 mph and 0-62 time of 4.6 seconds, the 2008 Audi R8 can still hang with some new models in its weight class. After all, it shared the same platform and chassis with its bigger brother, the Lamborghini Gallardo, and the two featured similar transmission and all-wheel-drive systems. However, the R8 and the Gallardo veer off dramatically in terms of character. The R8 is much smoother, has better handling, and is more civilized than its Italian brother. Plus, you can find an R8 in good shape for $65,000. Try finding any Lamborghini at that price.

2006 Aston Martin DB9 Volante

How would you like to feel like James Bond without dodging international assassins? What if you enjoy your vodka martinis “shaken, but not stirred,” but don’t quite have the lavish lifestyle of 007? A 2006 DB9 Volante convertible might be the car for you. First, the DB9 is a stunningly beautiful car, even the 14-year-old version. You also get to sit behind Aston Martin’s legendary 6.0L V-12 engine as it cranks out 450 horsepower. The best part? Your right foot can launch you up to 186 mph with a 0-60 time around 4.5 seconds at the cost of about $45,000 – no need to work for MI6!

We hope you enjoyed our look at affordable exotic cars. If you are lucky enough to own one of these or plan to buy one in the future, protect your investment by transporting it with a Rail Ryder exotic car trailer.

Owners of specialty cars are all talking about an innovative trailer loading system. That system is Rail Ryder. Engineered and designed by Dale Hofius, Rail Ryder is a self-loading trailer track system that operates with greater precision and mechanical ability than any other low-profile car trailer on the market.

This custom enclosed trailer system uses simple, but effective over-the-wheel tide downs with rails and trolleys that operate smoothly with a touch of a button.

The Rail Ryder vehicle loading system has the following features:

• Low 4 degree loading angle
• Easy one-man loading from outside the trailer
• No crawling out of the car window
• Lightweight and quality engineered

What Makes the Rail Ryder so Innovative?

Rail Ryder is unique because it’s the only one-man enclosed trailer loading system on the market. Rail Ryder uses a secure, 4-point tie down system. Simply drive your car onto the trolleys, secure it with the scar-free trailer tie down system, and with a press of the button load your car into your custom enclosed trailer.

Typical trailer tailgate are at a 13-degree angle, but Rail Ryder’s trailer track system has them beat, loading cars at an unbeatably low 4-degree angle. The low-profile design makes it great for vehicles with low suspensions. This is a valuable custom car hauler used by industry professionals and car enthusiasts alike.

If you want to upgrade your current trailer, we have a close relationship with a variety of different manufacturers. We can make manufacturer suggestions or work with the manufacturer of your choice. Once you have your trailer configured and built, Rail Ryder is installed at our facility and shipped directly to you!

Want to Know More? Watch this video, or contact us with your questions.

A Word From One Of Our Customers:

“We have used our Rail Ryder system numerous times and it has performed exactly as demonstrated. Because the system is so mechanically simple and the process is so methodical, we feel very confident loading and unloading vehicles and do it with ease. Your follow-up has been prompt, knowledgeable and professional. I am very pleased with my investment and would highly recommend this loading system to any car guy.”

~Matt H, Colorado

Incredible cars require incredible solutions. Thanks to Dale Hofius’ passionate vision, we have the most ingenious self-loading trailer system on the market. It’s a great fix to the typical problems faced when loading custom cars. Now you can stand back and let Rail Ryder do all the work. You’ll never have to crawl out of a car window again!

If you are a car enthusiast, chances are that you will haul your precious cargo somewhere on a trailer. For instance, you may want to bring your racer to a track or transport your pristine collectible to a vintage car showcase. Sadly, the day will come where you must take your broken machine to a shop. In any case, owning (or having access to) a car hauler is crucial to maintaining your motoring hobby.

Of course, the type of car hauler you choose depends on the car(s) you own. For example, a specially designed exotic car hauler or custom enclosed trailer is ideal for your expensive supercar. If you have the cash, you can find an assortment of self-loading trailers at the top of the line. While the designs may seem limitless, there are a handful of critical questions that must be addressed, regardless of what type of trailer you have.

How should the load be set?

Before every haul, precautions must be taken to ensure safety. First, make sure you load the trailer on flat ground rather than an inclined driveway or any slanted stretch of road. Working on flat ground will not only save you time by make loading easier but will also reduce the risk of an accident from a runaway car. Also, make sure the trailer and tow vehicle are connected in straight alignment.

Next, inspect everything from the hitch connection to the trailer track system. The trailer needs to be secured to the tow vehicle before loading to maintain stability. Make sure the truck’s parking brake is on, all connections are tight, and the trailer’s wheels are chocked. Finally, examine all connection sites. Damaged or loosened straps, rings, and tracks can fail and create a dangerous situation, especially while the trailer is in motion.

Where should you put the weight?

The mechanics of a truck and trailer connection can create a teetering effect if the weight is off balance. Excessive pressure over the front of the trailer pushes down on the towing vehicle’s rear axle, which can reduce the weight on the front axle and make steering and braking difficult. If the weight is too far back, the truck’s rear axle could lift, creating instability. 10% of the trailer’s gross weight needs to be transferred on to the tow vehicle’s rear axle.

If you are hauling a front-engine car, do not back it onto the trailer. Most of a vehicle’s weight is typically around the engine, so a forward approach will make the placement much more manageable. You should, however, back in a rear or mid-engine car for the same purpose. Also, load the car very slowly. A gradual approach will ensure your vehicle is centered between the trailer’s inner fenders and in straight alignment. Carefully measuring and installing a trailer track system beforehand can guide your approach. Otherwise, marking out the “track” can help, especially if this is your first time.

How do you secure the car?

Tying down your car with ratchet straps is the final – and most critical – step before heading on your way. There are two primary systems to consider – axle straps and tire straps. Tire straps are recommended if you are hauling a modern vehicle because axle straps can damage newer cars. If you are carrying a larger vehicle like an off-roader, or a classic car, use axle straps. Tire straps likely will not fit on the bulkier tires of a larger vehicle.

Before you strap the car down, make sure the vehicle is in Park with the parking brake engaged. Attach the straps to the tires or axles, then fasten the clasps to the trailer’s d-rings. These are rounded, d-shaped rings typically located near each corner of the bed. If you have a parallel e-track system, you can buckle the d-rings where you want along each track. Once the straps are in place, use each strap’s ratchet to tighten until there is no slack.

What if the car you are loading does not run?

If you need to haul a disabled vehicle, winching will be the easiest and safest way. An electric winch is a compact machine designed to pull tremendous weight from a stationary position. Plus, you can mount a winch to just about any type of car hauler, making it a vital tool for any automotive enthusiast. Just be sure to install your winch onto the front frame of the trailer, or else it can dislodge when pulling the car. If the chassis is inaccessible, a professionally installed winch mount may be needed.

Before using the winch, make sure the tow vehicle, trailer, and load vehicle are all on level ground, and in straight alignment. This will make the process easier and safer. Next, pull the winching cable out to the load vehicle and fasten it securely to the car’s designated towing point. Do not clip the cable back to itself like a noose, or else the cable can quickly fray and snap. Finally, put the load vehicle in neutral and winch away using the remote control.