
Is Your Car Color Affecting Resale Value?
When considering which vehicle to buy, many factors come into play—performance, brand, and the ever-important resale value. According to a recent study by iSeeCars, color significantly impacts the resale value of vehicles, with shocking results that could change your purchasing decisions. While most car buyers might think more traditional colors like black or white command higher resale prices, the data reveals a different story.
The Surprising Results of the Study
Analyzing over 1.2 million three-year-old vehicles, the research found that gold cars showed the most significant depreciation, losing an astounding 34.4% of their value over three years. This represents a drop of approximately $16,679 from the manufacturer's suggested retail price. By contrast, yellow cars only depreciated by 24%, ranking them as the top color for retaining value. The analysis also identified orange and green, with their depreciation rates at 24.4% and 26.3%, respectively.
Exploring Market Demand and Color Choices
iSeeCars executive analyst Karl Brauer explains that the trends in color choice directly correlate with supply and demand. Common colors like black and white are in high demand but oversupplied, leading to decreased distinction in resale value. Brauer points out, "The more common a color is, the less distinctive it becomes in the used car market. This lack of uniqueness prompts buyers to seek lower-priced options, further driving down the value of these popular colors." The statistics support this observation: silver and gray cars were found to depreciate by about 29.8% and 30.5%, respectively, slightly better than the average depreciation of 31%.
Color Impact on Different Vehicle Types
Interestingly, the study determined that both orange and green vehicles held their value effectively across different types of cars. For trucks and SUVs, orange was the standout champ, with only a 16% depreciation for trucks and a 27.1% dip for SUVs. Green vehicles performed decently as well, depreciating just 19.3% for trucks and 28.8% for SUVs. The trend indicates that for new car buyers, particularly in the truck segment, opting for vibrant colors might yield better resale returns.
Actionable Insights for Dealership Owners
This information is particularly valuable for dealership owners and general managers looking to optimize their stock. Understanding which colors are gaining or losing value can assist in inventory decisions. If investing in new stock, consider incorporating vehicles with colors that hold their value, such as yellow and orange, to attract buyers who remain conscious of depreciation.
A Final Word on Resale Value
Ultimately, this study emphasizes that not all cars are created equal when it comes to resale value. A vehicle's color can be a critical factor in market demand and depreciation rates. For potential buyers and dealerships alike, being informed of these nuances can not only ensure better purchase decisions but also optimize profitability when reselling. For a deeper analysis of vehicle colors and their impact on resale value, dive into the full report from iSeeCars.
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