We Buy Any Car has become the go-to website for car valuations in recent years. But does that mean they give the best valuations? We take on We Buy Any Car in a head-to-head comparison – see the results below!
Many people start their car buying journey by seeking valuations for their existing car. After all, to know how much you can afford spend, you first need to get an idea of what your current car’s worth.
Are valuations like for like?
With their extensive marketing, We Buy Any Car are often the first visit for many people looking for a fast valuation, but it’s important to note that their valuations are:
Only valid for 4 days
Subject to an appraisal of the car in person
Subject to a transaction fee up to £99.99
We Buy Any Car also, as standard, only pay you after 4 days as they use the future dated payment method. If you want it faster, you have to pay a fee.
Can I sell a car still on finance?
Yes! That’s no problem with vehicles on either PCP or HP; both We Buy Any Car and used car dealers like Prestige Cars Kent just need an up-to-date settlement letter from the finance company. We will then pay balance owed to the finance company directly, and then pay you any remaining equity.
Who gives the better valuations?
Automated valuations are complex, and dynamic. With thousands of makes, models and trim levels, you can get your car valued one day, and the next day get a different price.
We’re the first to admit that we may not always be the cheapest with our first valuation, but because we make the effort to talk to customers, our values will often be more realistic as we have discussed any elements that may affect the figure – such as damage, a missing key, or big service imminent.
Here’s how we compared when choosing 10 recent values, chosen at random on 04/09/24. Values ranged between £8,000 - £20,000.
But is it all just a rip off?
One of the most searched Google terms surrounding websites like We Buy Any Car is will you get what you were offered online.
The answer is down to how well you have been able to describe the condition of your car. Your car will be appraised thoroughly, so you shouldn’t be surprised to be knocked down a little if undeclared damage is found. That doesn’t mean it’s a “rip off”, but you will need to be prepared to stand your ground.
Similarly, we would appraise your vehicle in person before confirming a final valuation. Because we repair cars in-house at our Preparation Centre, we believe we’re better than most, but likewise we can’t take on £100s of repairs whilst offering the same money as a perfect condition car – see our tips for boosting your car’s value.
Thinking of part exchanging your car rather than just selling? Well then it makes even more sense to go to a dealer directly over We Buy Any Car, as they want your business.