In recent years, We Buy Any Car has become a go-to website for car valuations. But does their popularity mean they offer the best car valuations? If you’re considering selling your car, it’s worth comparing your options. In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll examine how We Buy Any Car stacks up against dealerships like Prestige Cars Kent.
Most car sellers begin by seeking a car valuation for their current vehicle. After all, knowing how much your car is worth can help you budget for your next one. While We Buy Any Car is often the first stop for many, it’s important to dig deeper to understand what you’re really getting.
Are Car Valuations Like-for-Like?
We Buy Any Car has built a reputation for providing quick online car valuations. However, it’s crucial to note that their car valuations come with certain conditions:
Validity Period: Only valid for 4 days
In-Person Appraisal: Subject to an appraisal of the car in person
Transaction Fees: Subject to a transaction fee up to £99.99
Delayed Payments: Payments are typically made after 4 days using a future-dated method. Faster payments are available but come with additional fees.
At Prestige Cars Kent, we’re honest and transparent about our car valuations. While we also conduct in-person appraisals to confirm the condition of the car, we aim to provide realistic and fair offers without additional fees.
Can I Sell a Car Still on Finance?
Yes, if your car is on finance, can you still sell it! Both We Buy Any Car and Prestige Cars Kent can handle vehicles on PCP or HP agreements. All you need is an up-to-date settlement letter from your finance company.
Here’s how it works:
We will pay the settlement amount directly to the finance company.
Any remaining equity will be paid to you.
Who Gives the Better Car Valuations?
Automated car 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. Automated car valuations, like those offered by We Buy Any Car, are a convenient starting point but don’t always consider important details such as:
Vehicle condition (e.g., damage or missing keys)
Upcoming maintenance (e.g., major services)
At Prestige Cars Kent, we’re the first to admit that our initial online valuation might not always be the highest. However, we make the effort to talk to customers, ensure our values are more realistic and tailored to your car’s true worth.
To show the difference, we conducted a comparison of 10 recent car valuations, selected at random on 04/09/24. These cars ranged in value from £8,000 to £20,000, and Prestige Cars Kent consistently provided competitive offers.
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. While this isn’t necessarily a “rip-off,” it’s important to manage your expectations.
At Prestige Cars Kent, we also conduct thorough appraisals. However, because we handle repairs in-house at our dedicated Preparation Centre, we’re often able to offer better prices for cars with minor imperfections. That said, significant issues may still affect the final valuation. To get the best price, see our tips for boosting your car’s value.
Why Choose a Dealer for Part-Exchanging?
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. Selling your car can feel exhausting, but choosing the right buyer makes all the difference. While We Buy Any Car offers quick and easy car valuations, Prestige Cars Kent provides competitive offers, personalised service, and a smoother experience—especially for cars on finance or part-exchanges.
Want to learn more? Contact our team today and we will answer any further questions you may have!