the value of a car Page 4

Valuing a car in Australia is part detective work, part reality check. Start with recent listings of the same make, model, year and trim, then adjust for kilometres, condition and options—glossy photos don’t add dollars, service history does. Use valuation guides and lender estimates for a sanity check, but the real market is what similar cars actually sell for, not what daydreams are asking. Factor in rego remaining, tyres, upcoming major services, and any accident or flood history. If you’re selling, price a whisker under the pack to draw buyers; if you’re buying, bring evidence and negotiate like a polite bulldozer. Cross-check on Tradingpost and other marketplaces, then get a pre-purchase inspection before you bet the petrol money.