In the UK’s competitive used car market, setting the right price for your vehicle is crucial. A free car valuation not only helps you attract buyers but also ensures you’re not leaving money on the table. With Car Analytics’ car value checker, sellers can get a quick overview or a detailed valuation, depending on their needs. Here’s a guide to the valuation factors included in each option and when each is best used.
Car valuation factors from free and premium vehicle check report for sellers
When preparing to sell your car, it’s essential to understand which factors are available in a free car check and a premium one. Car Analytics offers free car valuation factors through its free car history check, giving you a basic idea of your car’s worth based on essential details. The premium option provides a comprehensive, multi-band report for a more precise valuation.
Free car valuation factors: what’s included?
The free car valuation factors are available as part of the free car history check in Car Analytics’ service. This quick, no-cost report includes the following essential factors:
- Vehicle Make: The brand can significantly affect resale value, especially for well-known or popular makes.
- Model: Specific models have varying levels of demand, impacting resale value.
- Age: Older cars naturally depreciate, though some models retain their value better.
- Recorded Mileage: Mileage reflects wear and tear, a critical factor in determining value.
- MOT Advisory Notes: Advisory notes from previous MOTs provide insights into any existing or recurring issues that might affect the car’s value.
When to use free valuation factors?
Free vehicle valuation factors are ideal if you’re just starting the selling process or need a basic overview of your car’s value. It’s also suitable for setting an initial price for cars in the lower price range, where specific details such as condition or premium features may not impact the sale as much. However, for a more accurate and tailored valuation, a premium report is recommended.
Premium car valuation: what’s included?
For sellers aiming to get the best price for their cars, the premium car valuation offers a more in-depth and accurate report. Available for just £1.99, this premium valuation includes a 5-band valuation to provide a realistic estimate for various selling scenarios:
- Dealer Forecourt: The estimated value if sold through a dealership, often including added services like warranties.
- Trade Price: The amount you might receive from a dealer in a trade-in.
- Private Sale Price: The estimated price for a private sale is typically higher than the trade-in value.
- Auction Value: This is an estimate of what the car might fetch at auction, suitable for sellers seeking a quick sale.
- Part Exchange Value: Useful if you’re exchanging your vehicle for another, allowing you to negotiate based on a fair estimate.
When to use Premium Valuation Factors?
The premium valuation is perfect for sellers who want a precise and comprehensive understanding of their car’s worth. It’s really valuable for cars with low mileage, unique features, or high demand in the used car market. Whether you’re listing the car privately or negotiating with a dealer, the premium report’s multiple price bands help you set a competitive price and maximize your profit.
How much is my car worth?
Imagine you’re a UK car owner looking to sell your Ford Focus. You’ve used a free valuation tool and received a basic estimate, but you’re wondering if you could get more. Here’s where a paid valuation can make a real difference.
By adding details like your car’s exact mileage and options, maybe it’s got low miles and a tech package, you could increase its estimated value by as much as 30%. Choosing a paid valuation means you’ll get a tailored price that reflects these specifics, helping you set a price that attracts serious buyers.
With this accurate approach, you’ll be sure you’re not underselling and can walk away from the sale without regrets.
Can you do valuations for Cat N and Cat S cars?
A car gets Category-S when the insurer deems the repairs it needs are not worth its current market value. The vehicle can come on the road after the necessary refurbishment and re-registration with the DVLA. Similar is the case with Category-N cars, which can perform driving duties after proper repairs without re-registration.
As our valuations are based on the mileage and other critical factors discussed above, we provide price estimates for Cat N and Cat S cars. However, the valuation might not be as accurate as we provide for non-accidental cars due to various potential variables involved in evaluating written-off vehicles. A rule of thumb is that the repair-worthy written-off cars are worth 10% and 30% below the normal ones.
Does car service history impact the car value?
There’s always the assumption that a vehicle isn’t adequately maintained without a service record. Although any history is essential, service history can make less of a difference as it grows older and its value declines based on the motor’s mileage and condition. It’s also important to consider what service isn’t documented (for example, a small or significant kindness) and how valuable the auto is due to its brand and kind.
For example, a five-year-old gasoline city car will always find buyers since such vehicles are in high demand. A lack of service records will only have a minor impact on its value, while a car with a full service history will be worth more than one with none at all.
Why should sellers use Car Analytics for accurate value?
Selling a used car in the UK requires setting a realistic price that attracts buyers while maximizing your profit. Car Analytics provides tools to help you get the most accurate valuation, starting with a quick estimate. With us, you can access a thorough, multi-band report that gives you confidence in setting a competitive price. Whether you’re preparing for a private sale, dealer negotiation, or part exchange, Car Analytics’ valuation tools are here to ensure you get the best possible deal.
Ready to sell your car? Start with Car Analytics and find out its true worth today.
Answering your questions:
Where can I sell my car after valuation?
After determining your car’s value, you can explore options for selling your car online through secure platforms or directly to dealers. Many platforms now offer instant offers or bidding options, allowing you to compare prices and choose the most convenient and profitable route.
Which cars have more value and are easier to sell—Cat S or Cat N?
Generally, Cat N cars hold more value and are easier to sell compared to Cat S cars. Cat N cars have sustained non-structural damage, making them less impacted in terms of resale value and buyer confidence. In contrast, Cat S cars have structural damage history, which can significantly reduce value and may require additional reassurance for potential buyers.
