Depreciation & Resale Value Projections
The single biggest cost of ownership. Most cars lose 40 to 60% of their value in five years, and the rate varies sharply by body type.
Project Your Car's Resale Value
Enter your purchase price to see estimated value over time
Year 3
$22,400
-36% lost
Year 5
$15,750
-55% lost
Year 10
$7,700
-78% lost
| Year | Est. Value | Value Lost | % Retained |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $28,000 | -$7,000 | 80% |
| Year 2 | $25,200 | -$9,800 | 72% |
| Year 3 | $22,400 | -$12,600 | 64% |
| Year 5 | $15,750 | -$19,250 | 45% |
| Year 7 | $12,250 | -$22,750 | 35% |
| Year 10 | $7,700 | -$27,300 | 22% |
5-Year Value Retention by Body Type
Which vehicle types hold their value best
Pickups and SUVs retain the most value over 5 years. Luxury cars and EVs depreciate fastest - a $50,000 luxury sedan may be worth under $19,000 after 5 years.
How to Protect Your Car's Value
- Keep mileage under 12,000/yearHigh Impact
- Full service history at same shopHigh Impact
- Garage-kept, no paint damageMedium Impact
- Popular color (white, black, silver)Medium Impact
- No accidents on CarfaxHigh Impact
- OEM parts (not aftermarket)Medium Impact
Projections based on industry-average depreciation curves from iSeeCars, Kelley Blue Book, and Edmunds (2023–2024 data). Actual resale value depends on brand, trim, condition, mileage, local market demand, and broader economic factors. Luxury and EV depreciation rates are improving as markets mature.