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How much could I sell my car for? Fair wear & tear explained
When it’s time to upgrade your ride, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is, "how much could I sell my car for?" To get an accurate answer, you need to understand the difference between acceptable "fair wear and tear" and actual damage.
In the automotive world, fair wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration that happens to a car through normal, everyday use. It’s the kind of age-related "character" that any vehicle picks up over time. However, when you start wondering how much could I sell my car for, being able to distinguish these minor marks from significant damage is key to protecting your resale value.
Let’s break down what counts as fair wear and tear and how it impacts your car’s condition.
What are some examples of fair wear and tear?
1. Tyre wear
Over time, tyres wear down due to contact with the road surface. This is a natural process as the rubber tread gradually erodes with use. As long as the tyres maintain adequate tread depth and show no significant damage such as cuts or bulges, this is considered normal wear and tear. Regular tyre rotations and pro per inflation can help slow down wear, but no tyre lasts forever, which is why checking your tyres for wear is so important.
2. Brake wear
Brakes are essential safety components that can naturally degrade over time. Every time you hit the brakes, the pads and discs experience friction, gradually reducing their thickness. This can cause some minor squeaking or slightly reduce your car’s braking efficiency. Routine inspections like during a service can ensure your brakes remain within safe operating limits, and replacing them as recommended by the manufacturer should be part of your regular maintenance.
3. Paint fading
Your car is exposed to the elements as you’re out and about, and if you park outdoors as well. Its exterior paintwork is exposed to sunlight, rain, dust, and other environmental factors that can cause slight fading over time. While a well-maintained car with regular waxing and polishing may slow this process, some degree of paint dulling is inevitable, especially with older cars. Minor surface imperfections, such as small swirl marks or slight loss of gloss, fall within normal wear and tear expectations.
4. Small stone chips
When driving on highways or gravel roads, tiny stones can get kicked up and impact the car's bodywork. These small chips in the paint are often unavoidable and are a common sign of regular use. When you eventually ask a professional, "how much could I sell my car for?", they will typically view these minor chips as standard for a used car.
