As the end of the year creeps up, many car owners start to wonder: “Should I sell my car now or wait until next year?” It’s a fair question—and one we hear all the time. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or just trying to pocket some extra cash, timing your sale can make a big difference.
Let’s take a closer look at why selling your car before the year ends might actually be a smart move in 2025.
Car Values Drop with the Calendar
This one’s simple but important: once the clock strikes January 1st, your car is officially another year older on paper—even if it’s only a few days apart.
For example, a 2018 Toyota Corolla sold in December 2025 is still considered a 2018 model. But sell that same car in January 2026, and suddenly it feels older to potential buyers. That one-year difference might not seem like much, but it often knocks hundreds off your resale price.
Real-world example:
We recently had a customer sell their 2017 Mazda CX-5 in late December. They got $1,000 more than their neighbour who sold the same model (with similar kms) just a few weeks later in January. Why? Buyers mentally—and financially—value cars based on the year stamped on the rego and logbook.
More Buyers Before the Holidays
Believe it or not, November and December can be busy months for used car sales. People get bonuses, they want a vehicle for the holidays, or they’re trying to make big purchases before the new year for tax purposes.
This extra demand can work in your favour. With more buyers in the market, you’re more likely to get a fair price—or even a quick sale without too much negotiation.
Registration and Insurance Renewal Costs
If your rego is due in January or February, it might make more sense to sell your car in December and avoid coughing up a few hundred bucks for another year of registration. Same goes for insurance renewals.
Selling before year-end can also help you avoid paying for services or maintenance that are coming up soon. Why put new tyres on a car you’re planning to sell anyway?
Potential Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you use your car for work or business purposes, selling before the end of the financial year (depending on your country’s tax rules) might help you claim certain deductions or reduce your taxable assets.
In Australia, for example, small business owners sometimes choose to sell before year-end to take advantage of simplified depreciation rules or instant asset write-offs. It’s always best to check with your accountant, but if it applies to you, it could be an extra incentive to sell before December 31st.
New Models Coming In—Old Models Lose Appeal
Car manufacturers typically release their new models towards the end of the year or early in the next. That means your car—especially if it’s a current model—might take a hit in value once the newer version hits the market.
Even subtle design upgrades or added features in the next model year can make your vehicle seem less desirable to buyers, pushing its price down.
Demand for Used Cars Is Still Strong in 2025
While used car prices have settled compared to the crazy spikes of a few years ago, demand is still healthy in 2025. Many people are avoiding new car prices, long waitlists, or shifting toward used hybrids and budget-friendly sedans.
If your car is in good condition and has a full service history, there’s likely a buyer out there. In fact, some buyers are willing to pay a premium for well-maintained vehicles they can get now—especially with fuel-efficient or family-friendly models.
When Should You Hold Off?
While selling before year-end has its perks, there are a few reasons you might consider holding onto your car just a bit longer:
- You’re relying on it for holiday travel: Selling in December might not make sense if you’ve got road trips or family gatherings planned.
- You’re not quite ready to replace it: Unless you’ve already sorted a new car, you don’t want to rush into a sale and end up stuck without a ride.
- The market is flooded with similar cars: If a lot of the same make and model are being sold at once (for example, ex-rentals or fleet cars), it might affect your price.
Final Word: Timing Can Save—or Earn—You Money
Selling your car before the year ends could be a smart financial decision, especially if you want to maximise your vehicle’s value, avoid upcoming expenses, or take advantage of a busier used-car market.
But don’t rush the process. Make sure your car is clean, roadworthy, and has all the paperwork in order. A quick polish, minor touch-ups, and a well-written ad can help you get the best possible return.
Before the Clock Strikes Midnight
If you’re on the fence about selling, don’t wait too long. That extra year on paper can lower your car’s value more than you expect. And if your car’s already on its last legs or you’re just after a hassle-free sale, our cash for cars service is ready to help you out—fast, fair, and right before year-end.
If you are in Yallambie, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
Bundoora Cash For Cars
13 Nickson St, Bundoora VIC 3083