Whether you’ve driven a new car off the forecourt or you have a trusty but rusty wagon that gets you from A to B, in a competitive market, it’s a good idea to do what you can to maintain your car’s value so that you can get the best possible deal when you come to sell or part exchange it.
As of early 2025, the UK used car market has shown signs of stabilisation. According to Auto Trader, the average price of a used car in January was £16,774, remaining flat month-on-month, contrasting with a -1.9% decrease in January 2024. While there might be a seasonal element to the drop in January, this stability is also down to a combination of consumer demand combined with limited availability of used vehicles. Electric vehicles (EVs) have seen more significant price fluctuations; in December 2024, the average price of a used EV was down 10.6% year-on-year to £26,139. Of course, a lot of these fluctuations can be caused by reputation and trends, but this data highlights the importance of strategic ownership to make sure that you can minimise the amount that your car devalues over time.
Regular maintenance and servicing
Adhering to your car's service schedule is possibly the most important thing that you can do if you want to keep it running smoothly and keep a high resale value. A well-documented service history is one of the first things that a wise potential buyer will look for, so make sure that you go to trusted service centres and keep your receipts and service records.
Maintain the vehicle's appearance
The condition of your car doesn’t just impact its saleability and value, it also has an effect on how you drive it, and how other road users treat it. Regularly wash and wax your car to protect the paintwork, and make sure that you address minor scratches and dents promptly. Internally, consider using seat covers and floor mats to preserve the interior.
Limit mileage
Of course, your priority is to use your car as and when you need it; there’s no point keeping it parked up just so you can get more money when it’s time to change. However, bear in mind that excessive mileage can accelerate depreciation. The average UK driver covers about 7,400 miles annually, so staying close to or below this average can help maintain your car's value compared to other vehicles of the same age.
Avoid modifications
Personalising your vehicle might suit your tastes, but modifications can deter potential buyers. Non-standard alterations, especially those affecting performance or aesthetics, can negatively impact resale value; before you modify, consider whether you really need or want it, and what impact it could have down the line.
Stay on top of market trends
Keep an eye on the second-hand car market and take note of when prices dip and go up; there can be seasonal variations, so if you’re planning on selling your vehicle, try to time it right.
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