LA City Cars provides a convenient and fair solution for those looking to sell their used car quickly without any complications. They specialize in offering a certified, inspected, and roadworthy replacement vehicle in exchange for your old car.
The depreciation of a car is one of the most significant costs associated with ownership, particularly when purchasing new vehicles. As soon as you drive a new car off the dealership lot, it experiences a considerable loss in value—approximately 25% within the first year alone.
To help customers make informed decisions, LA City Cars offers a complimentary evaluation system that can be conducted online or at their location. Their transparent calculator generates a statistical reference value based on factors such as the car's make, model, mileage, and year of registration.
After an initial online assessment, their automotive experts conduct a thorough examination of the vehicle during an appointment. The individual car value calculation considers several aspects:
Year of manufacture and mileage: Age and mileage are critical determinants of depreciation. The older a car, the more its value depreciates, especially within the first few years. By four to five years, the car may only retain about half its original value, depending on how much it has been driven.
Make and model: Certain brands and models hold their value better than others. For instance, hybrids from manufacturers like Toyota tend to have lower depreciation rates due to higher demand on the used car market.
Color and paint finish: Bold colors might catch the eye but tend to decrease resale value. Neutral shades like silver, black, or gray are generally more popular and maintain their appeal over time. A well-maintained interior free from damage also contributes positively to the resale value.
Equipment and features: Standard equipment such as air conditioning, audio systems, safety features (like ESP, parking sensors, and multiple airbags), and convenience items (central locking, power windows) all impact a car's depreciation rate. Ensuring these are present can improve resale value.
Maintenance history: Regular inspections and adherence to manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals significantly reduce the loss in value. Having a complete service record increases buyer confidence and enhances the car’s resale potential.
Visual condition: Consistent care of both the exterior and interior, including regular cleaning, paint care, and careful upholstery handling, keeps the loss of value to a minimum and maximizes the resale price.
Previous owners and usage: The number of previous owners and the type of use affect the car's value. Vehicles with fewer owners and less intensive use typically depreciate less.
Damage and defects: Any accidents, damage, or wear, especially in crucial safety components like brakes and tires, will negatively impact the car's resale value. Prompt repairs and rust removal are essential to preserving value.
In summary, calculating depreciation involves considering numerous individual factors. While there's no one-size-fits-all formula, a general rule of thumb is that a car loses around a third of its value after three years and around 50% after five years. By understanding these influencing elements and ensuring your car meets key criteria, LA City Cars helps sellers get the best possible deal when trading in their used cars.