Yes! All our Full Check reports now include a FREE car valuation that tells you the value of your car in Excellent, Fair, or Poor condition. To make it as useful as possible, we've split it into two categories: 'Private' and 'Trade'.
This means whether you're trying to determine the price of a car on the private market or looking for an indication of what it should be worth as part-exchange at your local main dealer, MotorCheck is the place to look. All you need is the car's registration number.
Get your car valuation check now – enter the reg number and click the 'Get Report' button.
Powered by Glass's – The UK's Most Trusted Valuation Provider
Our used car values are provided exclusively to MotorCheck by Glass's, the UK's foremost authority on valuing used vehicles. Glass's valuation data has been used by insurance companies, financial institutions, and the motor trade in determining the value of used vehicles for many years, and we're pleased to include it in your Full Check free of charge.
NB: Valuations will be provided where data is available from Glass's.
Why Choose MotorCheck for Your Car Valuation?
Completely Free: Unlike other services that charge subscription fees for detailed valuations, MotorCheck includes comprehensive car valuations with every Full Check report at no extra cost.
Instant Results: Get your valuation in seconds - no waiting, no email required, no complicated forms.
Comprehensive Breakdown: Receive separate valuations for private sale and trade-in scenarios, plus values for different condition levels (Excellent, Fair, Poor).
Accurate and Data-Driven: We take into account your vehicle's age, mileage, specification, and optional extras to give you the most accurate valuation we possibly can. So whether it's your first car or the one that was built for family adventures, we know what your car is really worth.
Understanding Your Car Valuation
When you receive your MotorCheck valuation, you'll see two main categories:
Private Sale Value: This reflects what you could realistically expect to receive when selling your car privately to another individual. This is typically the highest value you'll achieve, as there's no dealer margin involved.
Trade Value: This indicates what a dealer might offer you as part-exchange when you're buying another vehicle from them. Trade values are lower because dealers need to account for reconditioning costs and their profit margin.
Each category includes three condition-based valuations:
- Excellent Condition: A well-maintained vehicle with full service history, minimal wear, and all features functioning correctly.
- Fair Condition: A typical used vehicle showing normal wear for its age and mileage, with some service history and no major issues.
- Poor Condition: A vehicle requiring work, with visible wear and tear, mechanical issues, or incomplete service history.
Factors Influencing Car Value
Cars don't have a fixed value - there are plenty of fluctuating factors that converge to determine the value of a car at any given time. Understanding these factors helps you get the best price when selling:
Vehicle Age and Depreciation
Every vehicle undergoes depreciation - a natural value decline over time. New cars often face the steepest depreciation in their initial years, typically losing 40-60% of their original value in the first three years. The rate then tapers off as they age. Recognising this curve ensures you aren't overestimating an older vehicle's worth or underestimating a newer one's.
Mileage
Mileage is one of the most significant factors affecting value. The average UK driver covers approximately 7,000-10,000 miles per year. Vehicles with below-average mileage command premium prices, while those with significantly higher mileage see reduced valuations. However, a well-maintained high-mileage car with full service history can be worth more than a poorly maintained low-mileage equivalent
Car's Condition and Maintenance
Beyond age, a car's condition speaks volumes. A well-maintained vehicle, both mechanically and aesthetically, can command a higher value. Maintenance records, acting as a testament to the owner's care, can bolster a car's valuation. On the flip side, visible damages or mechanical issues can significantly diminish its worth. Service records act as proof of care and can add hundreds of pounds to your valuation.
Market Demand and Rarity
Supply and demand dynamics in the automobile sector can be volatile. A sudden surge in demand for SUVs or electric vehicles can inflate their prices. Similarly, classic or limited-edition models, due to their rarity, often have inflated values, especially if they're in pristine condition. Popular models in high demand (like reliable family SUVs or economical hatchbacks) hold their value better, while models that have fallen out of favour depreciate faster.
Specification and Optional Extras
While not all optional extras add value, desirable features can increase your car's worth. High-value additions include leather seats, upgraded infotainment systems, panoramic sunroofs, parking sensors and cameras, heated seats, and advanced safety features. However, the value of options decreases as vehicles age - typically retaining 50-60% of their original value after one year, dropping to 20-25% after five years.
Colour and Desirability
Mainstream colours (black, white, silver, grey) typically have broader appeal and better resale values. Unusual or bright colours may attract some buyers but can limit your market and potentially reduce value, though this depends on the vehicle type - a sports car in a bold colour may actually command a premium.
Number of Previous Owners
Generally, fewer previous owners is better. A one-owner car with full history is more desirable than a three or four-owner vehicle of the same age. Multiple owners in a short time period can raise concerns about potential issues.
More Than Just a Valuation
When you get a MotorCheck Full Check, you receive far more than just a valuation. Our comprehensive reports include:
- Outstanding finance checks
- Stolen vehicle checks
- Write-off/insurance loss checks
- Mileage verification and history
- Number plate changes
- Colour changes
- Previous owner information
- MOT history and expiry
- Vehicle specifications
- And, your free Glass's valuation
Did you know MotorCheck also operates in Ireland? If you want to check the history of any car registered in the Republic of Ireland, please visit MotorCheck.ie
Start your MotorCheck today with a Free Vehicle Identity Check.
FAQs: Determining the Value of Your Car
How much is my car worth?
Your car's value depends on multiple factors including age, mileage, condition, service history, and current market demand. MotorCheck provides accurate valuations powered by Glass's data, showing you what your car is worth in Excellent, Fair, and Poor condition for both private sale and trade-in scenarios. Simply enter your registration number to get an instant, free valuation as part of our Full Check report. This gives you a realistic price range based on actual market data from thousands of transactions.
Are MotorCheck car valuations accurate?
Yes. MotorCheck valuations are powered exclusively by Glass's, the UK's most trusted vehicle valuation provider. Glass's data has been used by insurance companies, financial institutions, and the motor trade for decades. Their valuations are based on extensive market analysis of real transactions, taking into account your vehicle's specific details including make, model, age, and typical mileage for the year. While actual selling prices may vary based on condition, location, and negotiation, Glass's valuations provide a reliable benchmark for both buyers and sellers.
What's the difference between private and trade values?
The private value is what you can expect to receive when selling your car directly to another individual through classified ads or online marketplaces. This is typically the highest value you'll achieve. The trade value (or part-exchange value) is what a dealer might offer when you're trading in your car to buy another vehicle from them. Trade values are lower because dealers must account for reconditioning costs, warranty provision, and their profit margin. The difference between private and trade can be £1,000-£3,000 or more, depending on the vehicle.
How does mileage affect my car's valuation?
Mileage significantly impacts your car's value. UK drivers average 7,000-10,000 miles per year, so a five-year-old car with 35,000-50,000 miles is considered average. Below-average mileage adds value, while higher mileage reduces it - sometimes by thousands of pounds. However, mileage alone doesn't tell the whole story. A high-mileage car with full service history and motorway miles may be worth more than a low-mileage car that's been poorly maintained or used for short journeys.
Why get a car valuation?
Getting a car valuation is essential in several situations: before listing your car for sale to set a competitive and realistic price; when considering a part-exchange deal to ensure you're getting fair value from the dealer; after major repairs or services as your car may be worth more; before MOT expiry to help decide whether to invest in repairs; or when reviewing your insurance coverage to ensure adequate protection. Car values change over time due to market conditions, depreciation, and demand fluctuations, so regular valuations help you make informed decisions.
Should I sell my car or part exchange it?
This depends on your priorities. Selling privately typically gets you more money - often £1,000-£3,000 more than part-exchange, as shown in the private vs trade valuations. However, it requires more effort: advertising, fielding enquiries, arranging viewings, and handling paperwork. Part-exchange is more convenient - you simply hand over your old car when collecting your new one, with the dealer handling all administration. It's particularly worthwhile if you're short on time, uncomfortable with private sales, or if the dealer offers a competitive part-exchange price. Use your MotorCheck valuation to understand both values and choose the option that best suits your circumstances.
Ready to find out what your car is worth? Enter your registration number above to get your free, instant valuation powered by Glass's - included with every MotorCheck Full Car Check report.
