There are various reasons you want to check the value of your car. Whether you’re planning to sell it, trade it in for another one, or just want to check how much it has depreciated or appreciated since you purchased it.

To check your car’s present market value, you can take your car to a dealer and have them appraise it. Or you can use an online valuation tool, which is the most effective way to get your car’s value especially when you’re selling or trading in it. In this situation, market value is important as this can help you sell your car fast at a fair price, without the risk of losing a potential buyer by overvaluing or suffering a big loss.

How to find out what your car is worth online

To determine the value of your car online, you can try the following tools. All you need is to plug in the basic information, and you’ll get an instant value estimate.

1. EpicVIN: Unlocking features beyond valuation

EpicVIN not only provides a valuation based on average mileage and standard equipment but goes beyond. Explore its unique features and benefits to enhance your understanding of your car’s worth.

2. Bumper: A holistic view of your car’s value

Bumper an NMVTIS Data Provider, offers a comprehensive approach to car valuation. Understand how its features and user interface set it apart, ensuring you get an accurate assessment.

3. Edmunds: Navigating market trends

Edmunds focuses on analyzing market trends to estimate your car’s value. Learn how its distinct criteria contribute to a reliable valuation and how you can navigate its user interface.

They use in-depth criteria to determine your car’s value. Besides, they do not focus solely on dealer sales, they also include private-party sales across the United States while analyzing the trend to estimate the market value. With these tools, you can sell your car with confidence.

Generally, they provide both free and paid tools:

• Free tool
  
  You’ll simply select a car make to find out what it’s worth. The valuation is based on average mileage and standard equipment for that exact model.
  
  To make the valuation more accurate, you should provide more detailed information including the make, model, year, features, and mileage.
  
• Paid tool
  
  To get the exact specs of the car, you should try the premium service. All you need is your VIN or license plate.

Which factors affect how much your car is worth

Suppose you’ve already got your appraisal. You’ll be confused that your results are slightly different. It’s fair to say that they are all accurate. The reason for the differences is that they have different algorithms. But what is actually playing a significant role when determining a car’s value?

As a matter of fact, how much your car is worth depends on a number of factors. Below are some of them.

• Make and model
  
  Undeniably, certain models are more desirable. If yours is currently in demand, it might be worth more than you think.
  
• The condition of your car
  
  Having known this, you should keep your car in good mechanical and aesthetic condition, if possible. Also, try to clean your car before selling or trading in it to make it more appealing.
  
• Mileage
  
  Typically, the more miles your car has been driven, the less it is worth.
  
• Service history
  
  If you’re able to show that your car has been serviced at regular intervals, your car will be more favored.
  
• Number of previous owners
  
  Generally, cars with fewer previous owners are more likely to have a higher value. As this indicates there are possibly fewer unsolved problems.

• Manufacturer’s warranty
  
  Being able to provide buyers with a manufacturer’s warranty will help you get the best deal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is a VIN and how to find it?

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to each vehicle during manufacturing. It serves as a distinct identifier, providing essential information about the car’s make, model, year, and other specifications. To locate the VIN:

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of a car’s value is vital for informed decisions. Whether using the VIN or license plate to obtain a report from EpicVIN, Bumper, or Edmunds, accessing comprehensive vehicle history reports ensures well-informed choices in the used car market.

The methods in this article provide you with easy access to public record information, but without a guarantee for accuracy and may include links to websites not listed as a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA). Information acquired from these bodies is illegal to be used for employment, housing, credit, and other purposes alike, according to laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). If you’re not sure whether your use of our methods is appropriate, click here for details.

By Sammi Liu

Greetings! I'm Sammi, and my journey as a content writer began right after graduation. While my initial academic focus was in Public Finance, I later pursued a major in English Literature. This diverse educational background has equipped me with a unique skill set that combines analytical thinking with a passion for creative expression.

My career path has led me to become a proficient content writer with a keen eye for research. Intensive training in Microsoft Office, coupled with a natural curiosity, has allowed me to incorporate design principles and advanced internet search techniques into my work seamlessly.

What truly sets me apart is my knack for research. I've dedicated time to mastering advanced internet search techniques, inspired by countless articles and video tutorials on the subject. This has transformed me into a seasoned researcher, skilled at uncovering reliable and valuable information.

In addition to my professional pursuits, I'm a tech enthusiast who stays current with the latest trends through YouTube. Listening to podcasts of various genres has been a hobby of mine, especially in every morning. I balance my professional life with an active one, enjoying badminton, table tennis, tennis, and yoga. On weekends, you'll find me lost in the pages of books in the local library or soaking in the beauty of nature on bike rides. I'm also passionate about culinary arts, frequently experimenting with recipes and crafting delightful beverages like smoothies.

View all of Sammi Liu's posts.