We show you how to get the right part-exchange price for YOUR car.

Research from Auto Trader suggests buyers unaware of their car’s value are more likely to be put off by dealer’s part-exchange offers.

Some buyers feel powerless to dealers with valuation guides after being told their car would be worth less than they thought.
Auto Trader has teamed up with valuation experts Glass's to give you the most trusted and accurate industry valuation report.

Find what your car's worth with Glass's Guide

Advertise your car with Auto Trader

What you get

• The trade-in value for a car in:
1. Excellent condition
2. Average condition
3. Below average condition

• The latest list price new

• The car’s retail price – what a dealer will sell the car for on the forecourt

• A personalised valuation adjusted for mileage, extras and condition for just £3.50

Glass's have been valuing cars for 75 years and are the trusted source of used car values for more than 90 per cent of car dealers.

Find what your car's worth with Glass's Guide

More tips

You can check adverts on autotrader.co.uk or in your local magazine to get an idea of your car’s price, but be aware – others may not have priced their cars correctly.

Read our guide to setting a price for more information.

View our step-by-step selling slide show:

1. Market research

It’s a good idea to visit car dealers and get an idea of your car's trade-in value – anything you get over this will be a profit.
Don't expect to get a similar price to cars at a dealer forecourt however. They offer warranty, guarantees and other services, so value your car with this in mind.

Forecourt prices are set higher to cover the cost of vehicle refurbishment, valets, servicing and storage. Dealers also have to consider profit, advertising and VAT.

You might want to check manufacturer websites and owners clubs, as some offer valuation services. Bear in mind you may have to pay a fee or become a member first.

2. Beat depreciation

Depreciation is how much a car’s original purchase price is lost over time.

All cars depreciate at different rates. The rate is determined by a number of different factors including make, model, mileage, condition and age. Cars in low supply and high demand depreciate slower than plentiful cars which no one wants to buy.

Cars usually depreciate faster early on, with the rate of depreciation slowing as the car gets older. To avoid heavy depreciation, buy a used car which has already lost part of its original cost, and keep your car in good condition.

3. Place an advert

You can always go down the used route and sell your car to a private buyer.

You’re likely to get more than if you trade it in, and you can offset the money you make against the price of your next car – just as a dealer would.

Advertise with Auto Trader and your ad will reach over 10 Million people every month*
*ABCe March 2008

Advertise your car with Auto Trader

Video: Setting the price

Watch TV’s used car expert Jason Dawe show you how to set the right price for your car:

Find what your car's worth with Glass's Guide

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