by Elaina Wicks

Created on: November 06, 2008   Last Updated: January 27, 2010

The low riding mini-van, with gold dubs and spinners may have seemed cool a clouded decade or two ago. However, it's time to move onto another ride. How much is my car worth now?  Is it better to sell to my “brother-from-another-mother,” or will a dealership appreciate the pimpness of my old ride?

Funny as it sounds, many people think that because they invested a lot of money in their older vehicle, the value increases. This is false in most cases, especially if a lot of after-market parts have been installed. If this is your situation, another hydraulic loving individual might appreciate your car more. Dealerships prefer cars with original parts, especially with the new accessibility to vehicle reports like

CarFax.

There are many factors to consider when assessing the value of your car. An older car with very low mileage can often times be worth more than a newer car with high mileage. A newer economy sedan can be worth far less than an older luxury coupe.

The gauge of a car's condition can be pretty vast. If the exterior of a car has severe paint oxidation, but the engine is well maintained and sound, the value can sometimes still be salvaged. If the interior and exterior of the car are flawless, but the engine and transmission need replacement, the car could be absolutely worthless.

As long as the vehicle is in safe, running condition, it can be assessed for sale. A car in poor to fair condition has several mechanical and electrical issues, worn tires, an extensively damaged or rusted exterior and excessive interior wear. In these cases, body and mechanical work will need to be performed.

A car in good condition may have a few minor mechanical and electrical issues that can be easily repaired. Perhaps an oil change will be needed or certain electrical components may need to be replaced, like fuses or bulbs. The interior may have minor wear and tear; slightly stained upholstery or carpeting that can be cleaned or repaired. The exterior may have minor dents or scratches that may require minor bodywork.

Vehicles in excellent condition are free of mechanical issues. The interior and exterior have absolutely no damage or wear and the tires are new, with full tread. Typically, these vehicles have extremely low miles and are of showroom quality.

Online research provides an almost endless source of information to help you assess both the condition and value of your car. One website, Cars.com, not only allows you to list your used car for a small

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