Value my car

As your car gets older, it generally loses value. This is especially true when we factor in the speed of technological and engineering advances, and legislative changes that can make certain types of vehicles obsolete or expensive to run.

As a general rule, the more miles your car has travelled, the lower its value. This is because high-mileage cars usually need more repairs and maintenance, which adds expense to their running costs.

Wear and tear can slightly lower your car's value, while major issues have a bigger impact on its valuation. One of the cheapest and easiest ways to retain your car’s value is to clean it regularly and address minor imperfections.

Let’s be honest: some cars are just more desirable than others. The more desirable a car is on the second-hand market, the more valuable it is.

A full service history will go a long way in improving the valuation of your car. It tells potential buyers that your vehicle has been cared for and checked regularly by experts. You should also keep any receipts from servicing and repairs as evidence that they’ve taken place.

If your car’s been involved in an accident, it’s likely to have a lower value. The majority of car dealers won’t purchase a vehicle that’s been previously written off, even if it’s been fully repaired.

The number of previous owners doesn’t matter as much as it used to, but, as a general rule, a car with more previous owners will be less valuable than a comparable model with fewer owners.

The type of fuel your car uses can affect its value based on the current price of the fuel, and any additional costs related to its use, such as ULEZ, LEZ and CAZ charges.

Petrol and diesel cars that comply with Euro 6 emissions standards are now usually worth more than those that don’t. This is because non-compliant cars often incur daily charges when driven through ULEZ, LEZ or CAZ zones in major cities.

Some car colours are more popular than others. Less common colours can lower the value of your car, whereas 'safe' colours such as black, white, and grey can mean buyers may be prepared to pay more.

When it was first bought and spec’d, if you or the original owner splashed out on a few additional options, such as heated seats and a reversing camera, these could add value to your car.

Any modifications you’ve made to your car can mean a reduction in value, as buyers tend to prefer unmodified cars.

Your Carwow valuation factors in your car’s make, model, age, specification and mileage, along with real-time industry data and live demand from 6,000+ dealers. This scientific approach gives you a truly tailored, up-to-the-minute and accurate car valuation.

You know your car better than anyone, so our expert team is always on hand to make sure we’ve got your valuation right. We’re happy to talk your valuation through in detail, hear more about what makes your car special, and agree on a new value together.

Every car, no matter the age or mileage. We value vans, too! Head over to our van valuation page.

We’d love to help you sell your car. We work with 6,000+ trusted dealers - with a few more details we can set a price you’re happy with and advertise your car to our network for free.

Whether you decide to sell your car or part-exchange it depends on your particular circumstances and how much time you have. Selling with us is quick and easy and, on average, Carwow sellers surveyed got £1,040 more than part-exchange*.