Deciding when to sell your car can be tricky, but a motoring expert has pinpointed the perfect mileage to maximise your profit. Selling at the right time could save you thousands in depreciation costs.
The Sweet Spot for Selling Your Car
According to industry specialists, the optimal mileage to sell your car is between 60,000 and 70,000 miles. At this point, the vehicle has typically retained a significant portion of its value while still being attractive to buyers looking for a reliable used car.
Why This Mileage Works
Cars depreciate fastest in their first few years, losing up to 40% of their value in the first 12 months alone. However, once a car hits the 60,000-mile mark, the rate of depreciation slows. Buyers see these vehicles as a good balance between affordability and remaining lifespan.
Signs It's Time to Sell
- Your car is approaching 60,000 miles
- Maintenance costs are starting to rise
- The warranty is about to expire
- Newer models with better features have been released
What Happens If You Wait Too Long?
Once a car exceeds 100,000 miles, its value drops significantly. Potential buyers become wary of high maintenance costs, and dealerships offer much lower trade-in values. Selling before this threshold could mean getting thousands more for your vehicle.
Tips for Maximising Your Car's Value
- Keep detailed service records
- Address minor repairs before selling
- Clean and valet the car thoroughly
- Take high-quality photos for your advert
- Consider selling privately for better returns
Timing your sale correctly could make a huge difference to your wallet. By selling when your car hits that 60,000-70,000 mile sweet spot, you'll get the best possible return on your investment.
