What is my car worth? How to check in South Africa

Start with the exact version, not the model name

A “Hilux” can be a 2.4 single cab or a 2.8 Legend 4x4 auto. A “Polo” can be a 1.0 TSI or a GTI. Engine, gearbox, 4x2 or 4x4 and trim all change the price, so the model name alone gives you a range, not your car’s value. The exact version and year are on the licence disc, the registration papers and in the service book.

How to check your car’s value

1. Find the exact version and year

   From the licence disc or papers. If you’re not sure which version it is, the engine size, gearbox and trim name on the car narrow it down.

2. See what the same car is advertised for today

   Compare only the same version and a similar year and mileage. Other versions of the same model can be far off.

3. Take the middle, not the top

   Asking prices spread widely: in VEQRO’s own checks (September 2026), identical cars were advertised a median R80 000 apart. The middle of current asking prices is a fairer guide than the highest ad.

4. Expect to sell for a little less

   Sellers ask what they like and cars often sell below the asking price. A dealer’s trade-in offer will be lower again: that gap is the price of a quick, simple sale.

What makes a car worth more or less

• Kilometres for its age: well above average pulls the price down; low, genuine kilometres help.
• A full service history, both keys and the original papers.
• Accident damage or repairs, and the state of the tyres, windscreen and paint.
• Finance still owing: the settlement has to be paid before ownership can change, so get the figure first.
• How popular the version is: some versions keep their value far better than others.

Being offered a trade-in? Read trade-in vs private sale to see which of the three prices you’re being quoted and how far apart they usually are.