UK Car Data & Insights
Visual data to help you understand car depreciation, costs, and the UK market
UK Car Depreciation Curve
Understanding how quickly cars lose value helps you time your sale. UK cars typically lose 15-35% in year one, then depreciate more gradually.
Wondering how depreciation affects your car? Use our 'When to Sell?' calculator to see a personalized value projection.
The 50% Repair Rule
Industry standard: if repair costs exceed 50% of your car's current value, it's typically time to sell.
Time to SELL
Worth KEEPING
Are your repair costs getting too high? Use our 'Should I Sell?' calculator to get a clear recommendation.
UK Low Emission Zones
Non-compliant vehicles face daily charges. Know before you buy or keep your car.
| Zone | Daily Charge (Cars) | Petrol Standard | Diesel Standard | Annual Cost (260 days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| London ULEZ | £12.50 | Euro 4 (2006+) | Euro 6 (2015+) | £4,562 |
| Birmingham CAZ | £8.00 | Euro 4 (2006+) | Euro 6 (2015+) | £2,920 |
| Bath CAZ | £0 | Cars exempt (Class C zone) | £0 | |
| Bristol CAZ | £9.00 | Euro 4 (2006+) | Euro 6 (2015+) | £3,285 |
| Bradford CAZ | £0 | Cars exempt (Class C zone) | £0 | |
Important: Bath and Bradford are Class C Clean Air Zones. Private cars and motorbikes are exempt regardless of emission standard. Charges apply only to commercial vehicles (taxis, vans, HGVs).
Note: Annual costs calculated over 260 working days/year (Monday-Friday, excluding bank holidays). London ULEZ operates 365 days/year. Actual costs vary based on your driving patterns.
Selling Methods Comparison
Each selling method has trade-offs. Choose based on urgency, effort tolerance, and value priorities.
| Method | Expected Value | Time to Sell | Effort | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Sale |
100%
Full market value
|
1-4 weeks
Popular cars sell faster
|
High
Ads, viewings, haggling
|
Medium
Payment fraud risk
|
| Instant Car Buyers (We Buy Any Car, Motorway) |
80-90%
Often lower after inspection
|
1-3 days
|
Low
Online valuation
|
Low
Legitimate companies
|
| Part Exchange (at dealership) |
75-85%
Similar to instant buyers
|
Same day
|
Very Low
Instant process
|
Low
Dealer handles all
|
| Auction (BCA, Manheim) |
70-85%
Trade price minus fees
|
1-2 weeks
|
Medium
Transport + listing
|
Medium
Unpredictable price
|
| Scrap/Salvage |
£150-500
Up to £800-1k for SUVs
|
Same day
|
Very Low
Collection service
|
Low
Licensed operators
|
Value percentages are relative to private sale market value. Actual offers vary based on car condition, demand, and negotiation.
For a detailed breakdown of these methods, read our guide on timing your car sale.
Annual Running Costs Breakdown
Understanding the full cost of ownership helps you decide when to upgrade. Based on typical UK driver (10,000 miles/year).
Thinking of going electric to save on running costs? Try our EV Switch Calculator to see your potential savings.
Apply This Data to Your Decision
Use our free calculators for personalised advice