Let's talk about what affects your car's value over time. While most cars depreciate (COVID's wild market was definitely an exception), some hold their value better than others. Here's what you need to know about the factors that influence used car prices.

Choose your car wisely

The market favourites

SUVs are hot property right now, and that's not changing anytime soon. If you're buying one, you'll likely find plenty of interested buyers when it's time to sell. Utes are another solid bet, consistently holding their value well in the Aussie market.

Power to the future

What's under the bonnet matters more than ever. While early electric vehicles can be a tough sell on the used market, hybrids are absolutely crushing it. More Aussies are willing to pay extra for these fuel-sippers, and that trend's only getting stronger.

Getting the best price

Trading vs private sale

Here's the deal with trade-ins: they'll typically get you less than a private sale. Dealers need to cover their overheads, perform checks, and provide certain guarantees - all of which affects what they can offer you. They're buying at wholesale prices, while private buyers pay retail.

That's why auction prices are lower too - buyers there are taking on more risk, often without even a test drive.

History matters

A solid service history is worth its weight in gold. Skip those logbook services, and you're not just risking mechanical issues - you're potentially slashing your car's future value. Smart buyers dig deep into service records, and many will pay a premium for a well-maintained vehicle.

Market dynamics

The new car effect

New and used car markets are like dance partners - they move together. New car prices have been climbing steadily but ramped up markedly since the pandemic. Small cars that once cost $20K are now pushing $30K, while popular mid-sized SUVs are nudging $40K. Even the premium brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz keep pushing their prices north.

This ripples through the used market in interesting ways. When new car prices jump, near-new used cars become more attractive. More buyers chasing these cars pushes prices up, which then affects slightly older models. It's a domino effect that runs through the entire market.

Current market reality

The market's shifting again in 2024-25. With new car deals and discounts making a comeback, used car values are adjusting downward. If you're shopping for a used car, this is your time to shine.

Smart shopping strategy

The changeover game

Most used car buyers are trading up from another car, which means you need to think about the changeover price - that's the difference between your current car's value and the one you want. Focus on this number rather than the sticker price alone. The smaller the gap, the less you'll need to finance or pay out of pocket.

Know your timing

The market's always moving, so timing can make a difference to both buying and selling. Keep an eye on trends, but don't get too caught up waiting for the perfect moment - especially if you need a car now.

Bottom line

Understanding car values isn't just about knowing what cars are worth today - it's about recognising the factors that influence those values over time. Whether you're buying or selling, this knowledge helps you make smarter decisions about what to buy and when to make your move.

Remember: while the market will do what markets do, choosing a popular model and maintaining it well are still your best bets for protecting your car's value over time.