Fresh Car Market’s director of used cars, Maxim Solodovnik, explains how to tell if your vehicle should be sold soon. The key is to notice shifts that point to upcoming repairs or dwindling value. In Canada and the United States, alerting signals often appear in everyday wear and tear that accumulate over time, says the auto expert, who has spoken on this topic for major outlets including Rossiyskaya Gazeta.
Watch for clear indicators that the vehicle is approaching the end of its reliable life. Rust forming on different body panels is a common sign, as is the frequent need for service visits caused by electrical glitches, air suspension issues, all wheel drive system faults, and other critical components. When such problems begin to appear regularly, it is wise to re-evaluate the car’s long-term reliability and potential resale value.
Increased consumption of fuel and engine oil can also signal significant wear on the engine or the transmission. The cost of repairs can be substantial. In many markets, engine repairs may run high and transmission work can be very expensive, impacting the overall cost of ownership and the decision to sell or replace the vehicle soon.
There is a reality many buyers encounter when dealing with used parts. Some components experience heavy friction and wear over time, and hidden defects can be difficult to detect. For example, brake discs, hoses, pads, shock absorbers, springs, drives, and steering rods can deteriorate even when the car seems to run well. Replacing these parts may be costly and complicated, which influences resale timing and maintenance planning.
There are times when the rise in prices for used cars may slow down or reverse, affecting how sellers price vehicles and decide when to move a car off the driveway. Keeping an eye on market trends, maintenance costs, and the true condition of critical parts helps owners decide the best moment to sell and avoid getting stuck with ongoing repair bills. According to insights shared with Rossiyskaya Gazeta, market dynamics can shift, underscoring the importance of a clear plan for a quick, fair sale when signs of aging begin to show.