Why You Should Sell Your Used SUV

Selling your older SUV can be a wise investment if it has a high demand, or you want to go for an upgraded vehicle with much more present-day features. Currently, there are excellent market conditions and high demands, which can lead to huge profits when selling a used SUV in Australia. The growing popularity of SUVs, especially small and hybrid variants, and supply chain interruptions are some of the factors driving up costs and fostering a favourable atmosphere for sellers. Additionally, because more buyers are looking to take advantage of tax benefits, the end of the fiscal year (EOFY) can offer a favourable chance.

Are you sick of paying so much for your used SUV? Selling it can be the secret to obtaining large financial gains. We’ll look at the main arguments for selling your used SUV in this article and also give you tips on how to achieve its maximum resale value. 

The Rise in Popularity of SUVs at the Used Car Market

1. Popularity Factors

There are a number of reasons why SUVs have been a favourite market choice in the Australian Market. Ideally, they provide great space and safety and are versatile enough to fit anything. Families wanting to embark on a trip with their youngsters, and thrill-seekers who want to take their vehicle off-road, need heavy cargo capacity and safety with super grip on different road terrains. 

2. Market Trends

The popularity of SUVs has clearly increased, according to an analysis of current market trends. According to Ford, SUV sales in Australia as a percentage of all new car sales have increased from 27.5% in 2012 to 53.14% in 2022.

The demand for SUVs has significantly increased, according to data from various used car shops all over Australia. 

3. The Problems with Used SUVs

The appeal of SUVs is very evident: space, comfy interiors, and a comfortable ride, but what many don’t realise is that these very vehicles often find their way into the used car market for a reason. Problems with engine and transmission, never-ending oil leaks, poor fuel economy, and sinister design flaws affecting stability and safety, are just the tip of the iceberg of problems for the so-called “luxury” vehicles like the BMW X5 and Cadillac Escalade. That luxury tag does not always guarantee reliability; instead, it is just a fancy way of saying greater repair bills.

And it’s not just luxury brands. Even popular, supposedly dependable names like Jeep and Chevy have their share of issues. Jeep Renegades, for example, struggle with electrical failures and lack the off-road power you’d expect from the brand. Chevy Traverses and even old Pontiac Aztek have been known for engine seizures and costly drivetrain concerns. These mechanical failures are, in fact, the reasons many SUVs—with all the perks they afford—go on the used market. They may truly look good at first, but one day the huge maintenance problems can cause major headaches.

Reasons to Sell

1. Maximise Value

SUVs can hold their value well, especially in the first few years of ownership, especially if they are renowned and maintained. You may maximise the value of your car by selling it at the proper moment. Make sure your used SUV is ready for sale in order to receive the best price. Maintain it well, give it frequent cleanings, and promptly address any problems. This will raise its sale price or trade-in value. Additionally, to earn a good price, sell it while the market is at its peak.

2. High Demand

Due to the increasing demand in Australia’s used automobile market, costs for sellers are rising. Some SUVs, particularly luxury and antique models, as well as those in popular SUV and truck categories, could fetch a higher price.

3. Upgrade to new features

Given the current state of used vehicle prices, selling your older SUV could even be wiser to enable yourself to invest in newer one with better safety features, better gas mileage, and more current technology, or to use the proceeds for a larger investment, a down payment for a house, or just a more dependable car.

With lane departure warnings, collision avoidance systems, better gas mileage technology, SUVs are safer, and cheaper to acquire these days. Researching where your SUV stands in the market, a thorough cleaning, and proper presentation of your vehicle ahead of time is key to receiving maximum dollars and moving ahead with confidence.

4. Avoid Rising Maintenance Costs

As SUVs age, maintenance costs can also increase. To avoid these expenses, just sell your SUV at the right time.

5. Supply Chain Issues

Australian new‑car production has been hit by a storm in the supply chain—especially a global semiconductor (chip) shortage, shipping bottlenecks (not enough car‑carrier ships), and port congestion at Aussie ports. 

These issues mean people face long waits (often 6–12 months) for new cars, which has pushed more buyers into the used‑car market and lifted its prices. In short: fewer new vehicles available makes used SUVs more appealing than ever. 

6. EOFY Sales

The end of the financial year often brings more buyers into the market as businesses look for deals.

Factors Affecting Used Car Resale Value

1. Mileage: The majority of warranties expire after 30,000–40,000 miles. It makes sense to sell before reaching these milestones in order to get a better price.

2. Age: The value of a car decreases significantly during the first two to three years, and then again around the four-year mark. You may be able to retain more value if you sell between these intervals.

3.  Seasonality: You’re more likely to sell a used SUV in the spring or summer. These seasons see a rise in purchases for vacations and fun driving. SUV demand may also increase in the autumn as people prepare for winter.

4. Competition: Your sale price may remain higher if you sell before the release of a new model year. After a new model is released, your car becomes an old model and is less attractive, hence its price decreases.

Conclusion

Hence, getting a wonderful payout for your used SUV can prove to be a handy way of making some extra cash or perhaps avoiding hard repair expenses and even getting a brand-new energy-efficient model of your own. Whatever way you take, private sale or dealership, knowing your options can help you get the best deal. 

Since SUVs continue to dominate the used car market, now is the best time to cash in on strong demand. If you are ready to leave behind your current vehicle, look into your selling options and find an SUV that fits your needs and lifestyle better. For something quick and streamlined, you could also go for a cash-for-cars service: Cash For Cars Adelaide, right here in Adelaide.