Factors that can affect a car’s value
The following factors are not included in our valuations but can increase or decrease the car’s value.
Adding post-factory features like alloy wheels
can add to a vehicles' value
Things that can increase a car’s value
Any post-factory features that you’ve added to the car that make it stand out, e.g. alloy wheels, multimedia systems, etc. A car with a complete record of all services can be worth more than one that has gaps in the service history. Some colours are more popular than others, so a car in a sought-after colour can be worth more. Our valuations are based on the car being in good condition for its age – so it could have some minor wear and tear. If it’s in an excellent condition with no damage at all, then it's likely to be worth more than our guide price. Vehicles with lots of past owners are likely to have lower valuations 
Things that can decrease a car’s value
Our valuations assume the car has some minor damage, like a small stain on the seat or a scratch on the bumper. If the damage is any more significant than this, it's likely to reduce the value of the car. If anything needs fixing, e.g. a seat warmer or electric window that doesn't work, the car may be worth less. Usually, the fewer owners the more a car is worth. So, if a car has been sold many times before it can reduce the value. Our valuations assume a car is in good working order. If there isn't a current MOT, or significant gaps in the service records, it can reduce the value. Your questions answered
We know a car is more than just nuts and bolts, so we want to give you a fair and accurate price whether you're buying or selling. Our tool is 100% data-driven, completely free and will give your car’s market value in seconds.
You can use Auto Trader’s car valuation tool – it’s an easy and accurate way to find out how much your car is worth.
Simply enter your car registration and mileage to start, and we’ll give you both a private sale and part-exchange price so you can to decide what to do with your car. It's completely free to get your valuation with us and can be done online in minutes. Once completed, your valuation will be provided in seconds. There’s no hassle and no obligation.
We look at millions of vehicles every day to ensure your valuation is accurate. To ensure our prices are accurate, update our car valuations daily and combine data from:
- over 800,000 adverts from a range of trusted sources
- over 3,500 dealer websites
- values from major car auctions
- ex-fleet and leasing car values
Knowing the car’s value can help you negotiate in confidence when buying or selling a car.
Cars will sell faster when accurately priced. A fair price, and including up-to-date information like vehicle history checks, can inspire confidence in potential buyers and help your car stand out. And if you’re looking to part-exchange, you can do so with more confidence.
Generally, cars with higher mileages have lower resale values because they tend to have higher levels of wear and tear.
Several factors decide a car’s value, however. These include how well a car is looked after, any extra features included, and how rare or desirable colour or trim.
Once you’ve got your valuation, you’re free to choose! You might get more money if you sell your car privately (and you’ll reach a lot of car buyers on Auto Trader) – but it can take a bit of time and effort from you.
If you’d rather get the money this week, you can also opt for part exchange
