Loss of value shock: You lose money with your car every month - this is how you get it back!
When you buy a car, you probably don't expect a huge loss in the value of the car – but unfortunately, that's normal. With a few tips, however, you can keep the loss of value under control.
Hardly bought, already lost: Loss of value is the biggest invisible cost factor when buying a car. Within the first three years, many models lose more than 50 percent of their new price – that's quickly 15,000 euros or more.
But what many people don't know: With the right time, model and sales channel, you can significantly reduce this loss - or even reverse it.
What is depreciation anyway – and why is it so dramatic?
Depreciation is the difference between the new price and the current resale value of your vehicle. After the first year, new cars lose an average of 25 to 30 percent in value – regardless of whether you drive a lot or not.
Example:
- VW Passat Variant original price: € 42,000
- After 3 years: approx. 18,000–20,000 € residual value
- Loss: up to €24,000
Reasons for the loss of value:
- High supply on the second-hand market
- New model or facelift
- Brand Image / Popularity
- Type of engine (diesel often particularly affected)
This is how you can minimize the loss of value
The loss of value cannot be avoided entirely – but it can be cleverly controlled.
Top 5 tips to reduce depreciation:
- Sell the car after 2-3 years, before major repairs are due
- Select popular brands and models (e.g. VW Golf, BMW 1 Series, Toyota Yaris)
- Pay attention to equipment – but no extravagances
- Choose the color that is in demand: Silver, Black, White
- Selling through platforms like Carwow to compare market prices and get better deals
These models lose a lot – and these hardly at all
Some models are considered value destroyers, others are residual value stars.
| Model | Original price (€) | Residual value after 3 years (€) | Loss (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 7 Series | 112.000 | 48.000 | -57% |
| VW Passat Variant | 42.000 | 19.000 | -55% |
| Toyota Yaris | 22.000 | 14.500 | -34% |
| Porsche 911 | 123.000 | 96.000 | -22% |
| Dacia Sandero | 14.000 | 9.000 | -36% |
Tip: The cheaper the car is to buy, the lower the absolute depreciation – but even expensive models can hold their value well if they are in demand (e.g. Porsche 911).
Sell now or wait?
2025 is an exciting year for used car sellers. Due to production bottlenecks in previous years, well-preserved used cars are currently in particularly high demand.
Those who sell now can often earn up to €3,000 more than they did two years ago. Use platforms like Carwow to check the market value of your vehicle free of charge and without obligation.