Calculate Used Car Value by Age & Mileage
Estimating a used car's value is essential for buyers, sellers, and owners. This calculator applies the standard depreciation formula to give you an estimated market value based on the vehicle's age and mileage. Our values are current for 2026 and updated regularly to reflect market trends.
When to use this calculator
- Buyers evaluating fair prices for used vehicles
- Sellers determining asking prices
- Trade-in value estimates before selling
- Insurance valuation reference
- Financial planning and vehicle purchase decisions
- Teaching depreciation concepts in business and economics
Calculation Example
- $20,000 new, 5 years old, 80,000 km driven
- Estimated value: $11,000–$13,000
How it works
1 min read# Used Car Depreciation
Understanding how vehicles lose value over time is crucial for making informed decisions about buying, selling, or trading in a used car. Depreciation is the decrease in a vehicle's market value as it ages and accumulates mileage.
How the Calculator Works
This calculator estimates your vehicle's current worth using the standard exponential depreciation model: estimated_value = new_price × (1 − annual_depreciation)^years
Depreciation rates vary by vehicle age:
Mileage also affects value: vehicles with high mileage (100k+ km or 62k+ miles) see accelerated depreciation.
Factors Affecting Depreciation
Important Notes
This estimate is provided for informational purposes as a reference point. For critical financial decisions (purchasing, selling, refinancing, insurance), consult with automotive professionals, appraisers, or your local market data sources. Values reflect 2026 market conditions and are updated periodically.
Frequently asked questions
How much value does a car lose in the first year?
Most vehicles lose 15–25% of their value immediately upon purchase as they transition from new to used. This steepest depreciation occurs in year one.
How much does a car depreciate per year after the first year?
Years 2–5 typically see 10–15% annual depreciation. By years 5–10, the rate drops to 5–8% per year. After 10 years, depreciation stabilizes at around 3–5% annually.
How does mileage affect a used car's value?
High mileage significantly impacts value. Vehicles with over 100,000 km (62,000 miles) experience accelerated depreciation. Each additional 10,000 km can reduce value by 1–2%.
Which car brands hold their value best?
Japanese brands like Toyota, Honda, and Lexus are known for strong resale value and lower depreciation. German luxury brands and European makes typically depreciate faster.
Do all cars depreciate at the same rate?
No. Depreciation varies significantly by brand, model popularity, condition, mileage, and market demand. This calculator provides a general estimate; actual depreciation depends on many vehicle-specific factors.
How do I calculate what my car is worth?
Enter your car's original purchase price, its age in years, and total mileage (in kilometers) into the calculator. It will estimate your vehicle's current market value.
What is the depreciation formula used?
The formula is: Estimated Value = Original Price × (1 − Depreciation Rate)^Years. This exponential model reflects how vehicles lose value more rapidly early on, then at slower rates as they age.
Is this calculator free?
Yes. All Hacé Cuentas calculators are completely free and require no registration or account.