Comparison in used car exchanges
Search the exchanges for comparable models. This means that not only the make and model must be identical, but also the year of manufacture or the year of first registration, mileage, type of fuel and engine, body type (sedan, station wagon, convertible, Sportback, etc.) and the number of doors. Whether it is an accident-free car or not should also be taken into account when making a comparison.
If you use the detailed search on the large internet exchanges, the vehicles can even be filtered according to other criteria such as special equipment/extras and even color. In the end, a manageable number of offers often remains, from which an average price or a reasonably realistic price range can be derived.
Vehicle price calculator online
Entering the manufacturer and type code from the vehicle registration is even easier. After just a few clicks, the calculator calculates the current market value of the vehicle. However, without special equipment. The actual value of the car can therefore be significantly higher than the result of the online calculator.
Excerpt from the Schwacke list
The Schwacke list is generally regarded as the reference list for the valuation of used vehicles. Unfortunately, online queries for private customers, which used to be available for a small fee, are no longer offered as of 2020. The Schwacke offer is only aimed at commercial customers – the services offered are not suitable for private customers who only need individual valuations.
purchase portals on the Internet
Purchase portals or online auction portals such as carsale24.de* and wirkaufendeinauto.de, which specialize in buying used cars, are also a good option for determining the value. carsale24 has the advantage that the price determined online is the actual sales price. There are no later surprises, such as a renegotiation. And: Equipment, history and condition are already taken into account in the bid.
However, the price is often slightly below the actual value of the car. Finally, the buyers still have to invest in processing and guarantees and are interested in making a profit from the resale. In order to remain competitive, the prices are calculated strictly.
Professional appraisal
If you want a neutral, independent evaluation of your car, you cannot avoid a visit to the appraiser. TÜV or DEKRA, for example, prepare such an appraisal.
* Editor’s note: carsale24 is a cooperation partner of AUTO BILD
