ITEM VALUES

Vehicles: what they're worth used

A car is usually the most valuable thing people resell, and it loses value from the day it's bought. Age, mileage, condition, and model decide most of the price.

What decides the price

Mileage and age, then condition, accident and service history, trim and options, and local demand. A clean title and documented maintenance raise the price; accidents, flood damage, or a salvage title lower it sharply.

When cars lose the most

Depreciation is steepest in the first few years, then slows. That's why lightly used cars often cost much less than new ones of the same model.

Checking a price

Compare listings for the same model, year, trim, and mileage in your area, and look at the vehicle history report. Our car check estimates whether a price you're considering is fair.

Frequently asked questions

When do cars lose the most value?

In the first few years of ownership. Depreciation slows after that.

What raises a used car's resale value?

Low mileage, a clean title and accident history, documented maintenance, and a popular trim and color.

Check what your own item is worth