When is the Best Time to Sell a Car? UK 2025 Guide

If you have made your decision to sell your car, so let’s help you out with when is the right time to sell your car. It sounds simple, but getting into the UK car market could be daunting. You will even cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds.

It all depends on buyer demand, and you should understand when to get into the market for a better price. 

In this guide, we will walk you through the seasonal, legal, and financial sweet spots. And provide tips on how to maximise your car resale value.  

Key Takeaways: Best Time to Sell a Car in the UK

Selling your car at the right time, in spring or early autumn, with low mileage, good condition, and the right selling method maximises value and ensures a quick, hassle-free sale.

• Timing affects value: Sell before number plate changes (March & September) or key age milestones to get a better price.

• Best seasons to sell: Spring (March–May) and early autumn (September–October) see the highest buyer activity.

• Car condition matters: Clean, well-maintained cars with a valid MOT attract stronger offers.

• Mileage impacts resale: Cars under 60,000 miles usually sell faster and at higher prices.

• Market trends influence demand: Fuel prices, new models, and ULEZ changes affect what buyers are looking for.

• Choose the right selling method: Private sales for maximum price; dealers or online services for speed and convenience

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Why Timing Affects Car Value

It sounds dramatic, but when it comes to selling your car, timing does affect your car’s value. Your car is a depreciating asset, and the UK market has predictable waves of demand and supply. This directly influences buyers’ willingness to pay.

1. The number plate effect:

In the UK, new registration number plates hugely affect the used car market. This happens every year in March and September. The dip comes when the new number plate cars hit showrooms. This suddenly floods the used car market with more supply, especially cars that are three years old and coming off finance deals. 

However, the peak comes in the month just before the new plates arrive (February and August) often see higher demand for used cars, as buyers look to grab a deal before the big trade-in rush.

2. Depreciation of a car

Depreciation is the steady fall in your car’s value over time. While it’s always happening, timing can help you sidestep the sharpest drops. The valuation often sees sharp dips as a car crosses key age milestones (e.g., turning three years old, five years old, or ten years old). If you can sell it in the months before a birthday, its perceived value is usually higher.

MOT clock also affects your value. Selling with an MOT certificate can get you a better price for your car. It adds value and peace of mind for the buyer.

3. Supply and demand: Seasonal Swings

Supply and demand do play their role when selling a car. Buyers’ demand is not constant, it changes with the weather and the school calendar. For example, convertibles are in demand for summer and SUVs for winter.

4. Market trends

Fuel prices, the launch of new car models, and shifts in government policies like ULEZ can all influence the demand for specific vehicles. For instance, when fuel prices rise, buyers may lean towards smaller, more fuel-efficient cars, while at other times, family SUVs might capture more attention.

Key Factors to Consider Before Selling

Before you get your car to the market for sale, it is important to take a moment and identify your car’s potential buyer. Get these things right, and you’re set up for a fast, top-price sale.

1. Condition of a car

A car is only worth what its condition dictates. Buyers will look for reasons to knock the price down, so you need to fix all issues. Because a well-maintained car with a proper MOT certificate is a perfect car for buyers.  

2. Age and mileage

This is what a buyer looks for. Age and mileage are something that you can’t change it and you must understand how they affect car’s value. In the UK, the average driver typically covers about 10,000 to 12,000 miles each year, which sets the standard for buyers. If your car’s mileage is well below this average, make sure to highlight that as a significant advantage. Conversely, if it is above average, the value tends to drop sharply afterwards. 

3. Paperwork

Put yourself in a buyer’s position. What will you look for in a used car? Paperwork, buyers are looking for a car with organised and complete paperwork. You should prepare the V5C, a full service history book, and an MOT status. These are things that buyers expect

4. Presentation of the car

Presentation matters while selling a car online. Photos are something that buyers first demand from you. You can either hire a professional valet or do a deep clean yourself, making sure to tidy up the interior and remove any personal items. When taking photos, use a high-quality camera in good lighting, ensuring the car is clean and the background is simple. 

Best Times to Sell a Car in the UK

While selling a car, the right time of a year does matter. In the UK, there are clear patterns in buyer behaviour that can help you plan your sale.

Spring (March to May): 

Spring is typically the busiest time for car buyers. As the weather improves and summer is about to begin, more people are willing to get out. Families are planning for summer trips and holidays. These behaviours increase the demand for cars.

Early Autumn (September to October):

After summer wraps up, many buyers start considering swapping out their older cars before the year ends. This time of year usually sees a consistent demand, especially for practical family vehicles and fuel-efficient options.

Here’s a simple table showing seasonal trends for quick reference:

Where to Sell Your Car in the UK

Once you have decided to sell your car, it’s time to decide what the best way to sell a car. There are several options, each with its own pros and cons. Understanding them can help you pick the best route for your car and your situation. Here in this table, we have explained for your better understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I sell my car without an MOT in the UK?

Yes, it is legal to sell a car without an MOT certificate, but it does not give a good value for it. Cars must be roadworthy to be driven, and most of the buyers expect a current MOT status. However, selling a car without an MOT will depreciate your car’s value by 10% to 20%. If you want a smooth sale, renew it.

Which car types are in demand in different seasons?

The demands for car depends on seasons and that’s why buyers demand for different types for different seasons. 

Spring & Summer: Convertibles, small hatchbacks, and family cars are popular as people plan holidays or enjoy better weather.

Autumn: SUVs, practical family cars, and fuel-efficient vehicles are in demand as buyers prepare for winter.

Winter: Demand is generally lower, but practical daily drivers with reliable performance and good safety features still sell steadily.

What is the best mileage to sell your car?

There is no ideal figure for that however, the lower mileage attracts more buyers. The typical annual average is often cited as around 7,000 to 10,000 miles in the UK. Also, the depreciation drops sharply when a car’s mileage exceeds 60,000 miles and then 100,000 miles.

What is the best season to sell your car in the UK?

Spring (March–May) and early autumn (September–October) are usually the best times. During this period, buyer activity has been noticed to be higher, and you will be more likely to get a good price for your car.  

What is the best and simplest strategy to sell your car quickly and hassle-free?

If you want to sell your car fast, the simplest way is to use a trusted online car-buying service or sell it directly to a local dealership instead of going through private listings. With Exchange My Car, you’re assured of a sale. We any buy a car no matter its age, mileage, or condition. It’s completely free, with no hidden fees, includes free home collection, and offers a quick, hassle-free process from quote to payment.

Final Verdict: When is the Best Time to Sell a Car

Selling your car in the UK could be daunting, taking more time and giving a lower price for your car.  You have to understand when is the best time to sell and where to get a good price for it. Seasonal demand, mileage, and even the launch of new models can all affect what buyers are willing to pay.