Does age affect a van’s value?
Age affects a van’s value… significantly!
As vans get older, they depreciate in value, experience ever-increasing maintenance costs and become less reliable. Other factors that impact a van’s value include mileage, service history, and condition.
Older vans may offer some upfront savings and seem a more attractive proposition, but they may cost more in the long run.
Read on to learn more about how age affects a van’s value.
What’s the best age for selling a van?
Here’s how you find out how many owners a van has had:
📕 Obtain the V5C logbook: This document provides details of the current and previous owners. Ensure the logbook is authentic and matches the seller’s information.
💻 Conduct an HPI Check: This comprehensive online check, provided by the company Hire Purchase Investigation, will reveal if the van has outstanding finance, is stolen, written off, or has mileage discrepancies. It also lists the number of previous owners.
🔧 Service and MOT records: Reviewing these documents can indicate how well the van has been maintained. Consistent records suggest responsible ownership.
💻 Online vehicle history reports: Websites like the DVLA, Auto Trader, and others offer vehicle history reports with ownership details.
A van’s best value is within its first five years
To get the best value for your van, consider selling it within the first five years. Depreciation is slower during this period, and it’s likely to still be in good condition, with not so many miles in its wheels and fewer mechanical issues. Plus, a well-maintained service history can further enhance its appeal to buyers.
Selling within the first five years, strikes a nice balance between the van holding its value and it not yet being exposed to significant wear and tear.
How long do vans last?
Vans typically last for 10 to 15 years, or 150,000 to 300,000 miles, depending on usage and maintenance. Regular servicing, timely repairs, and proper care can extend their time on the road.
Diesel engines often last longer than petrol ones, while heavy commercial use can shorten a van’s lifespan due to increased wear and tear. Personal or light use may see vans last longer than 15 years.
Holding a van’s value through proper care
A bit of TLC is essential to maintaining your van’s value over time. Regular servicing and adhering to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule keep the van in optimal condition. Quickly addressing minor issues prevents them from becoming major, costly problems. Keeping detailed records of all the services and repairs made will help you get a good price when selling your van.
Maintaining a clean interior and exterior, avoiding excessive loads, and ensuring rust prevention measures help preserve the van’s aesthetic and mechanical integrity, sustaining its resale value.
Routine maintenance tips for a better price
Regular maintenance is crucial for enhancing your van’s resale price. To keep the van running smoothly, ensure:
👍 Regular oil changes
👍 Brake inspections
👍 Tyre rotations
👍 Check and replace, as per the manufacturer’s recommendations:
Maintaining the correct pressure in your tyres and ensuring they are properly aligned for better fuel efficiency and reduced wear is essential. The van should also be kept clean, both inside and out, to preserve its appearance. Also, address any dents, scratches, or upholstery issues promptly.
Regularly updating your service records and following a consistent maintenance schedule showcases care and attention to potential buyers, which will only help you get the best price possible.
What are the common mistakes that decrease a van’s value?
Avoid the following common pitfalls to help your van keep its value:
🔴 Neglecting regular maintenance leads to significant mechanical issues.
🔴 Ignoring minor repairs, like small dents or worn tyres, can escalate into costly problems.
🔴 Overloading or using the van for tasks beyond its capability causes excessive wear and tear.
🔴 Skipping routine cleanings can result in lasting stains and interior damage.
🔴 Failing to document service history and repairs diminishes buyer confidence.
🔴 Not promptly addressing rust or corrosion can severely impact the van’s longevity and value.
Being proactive and keeping an eye on these matters ensures your van retains its worth.
Ready to sell your van?
Want to read more about owning, valuing, and selling your van? Check out more of our guides here, covering everything from depreciation to maintaining your van’s value. Understand your van’s worth in the wider market.
FAQs
Does a car dealer count as a previous owner?
No, a car dealer typically doesn’t count as a previous owner on the V5C logbook. When a vehicle is traded in or sold through a dealer, the dealer’s name usually isn’t recorded as an owner.
What affects the resale value of a van the most?
The resale value of a van is most affected by its condition, mileage, and service history. A well-maintained van with low mileage and a comprehensive service record typically commands a higher price. Other factors include the number of previous owners and the van’s age.
Ready to sell your van?
Want to read more about owning, valuing, and selling your van? Check out more of our guides here, covering everything from depreciation to maintaining your van’s value. Understand your van’s worth in the wider market.
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