Part-exchange: valuing your car

Valuing your car before part-exchange or sale helps you negotiate from a position of knowledge. Mileage, condition, service history and market affect the price. Here are ways to get an idea.

What affects value

Mileage: lower is better (for the same age). Overall condition: bodywork, interior, tyres, brakes. Service history: up-to-date book, invoices, main-dealer or approved network servicing add value. Spec and trim: some options increase the value. Market: demand by model, region and time of year.

Checking the value

Price guides and valuation sites give ranges by model, year, mileage and version. Part-exchange simulators (manufacturers, platforms) give an estimate when you enter the vehicle details. These are indicative; the actual offer depends on the buyer (dealer, trader, private).

Practical tips

Prepare the vehicle (cleaning, small touch-ups). Have the service book and invoices. Compare several part-exchange offers or similar adverts. Negotiate using the guide value and the real condition. My Auto Check-up helps you keep track of maintenance, useful when valuing your car for part-exchange.