From nationwide clear air zones to the increased popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles, it’s a tricky time to be a diesel driver. As more and more of us switch to more sustainable ways of living, you might be considering whether it’s time to switch your car to a more environmentally friendly option. Research from Cox Automotive, our parent company, predicts that the diesel new car market share will drop to 3% by 2028, showing a decline in the number of diesel cars circulating in both used and new car markets.
If you’re looking to sell your diesel car as the market continues to drop, our free online valuation service lets you find out how much your vehicle could be worth today.
When’s the best time to sell my diesel vehicle?
By 2035, all new vehicles in the UK must be zero emissions, meaning new diesel cars and vans will no longer be on the market. While you’re still able to drive and sell used diesel vehicles after the 2035 deadline, it’s likely that diesel cars will become less desirable as electric vehicles become the norm.
Although there are no hard and fast rules on when you should sell, it’s important to keep on top of changing government regulations and market trends. Whilst most clean air zones are currently located in bigger, well-connected cities, they’re likely to come into play across more areas across the UK in the future. Whether you want to switch for environmental reasons, or to make sure you’re getting the best resale value before the 2035 deadline, you may want to think about selling up sooner rather than later.
How do I know if a diesel car is right for me?
If you regularly drive long distances
Diesel cars are often preferred for long-distance driving because they typically have better fuel efficiency than petrol cars. This means you can travel further on a single tank of fuel compared to alternative engines.
If you own a much larger vehicle
Thanks to their torque, diesel engines are more suitable for towing and hauling heavy loads. If you own a bigger car or you regularly transport heavy items, you might find you’ll make more long-term savings by holding on to your diesel car for the time being.
If you live rurally
Diesel cars are often a preferred choice for people living in rural areas for a number of reasons. Not only does their fuel efficiency allow drivers to cover long distances between remote locations, but their durability also makes them well-suited for mud, hills and off-track roads, rather than busy city streets.
Selling your diesel car
Selling your diesel car sooner rather than later can help you avoid potential decreases in value, and help you make a smoother transition to a greener alternative. That said, it’s important not to rush this decision and you should ensure you have considered all your options before selling. Explore the best places to sell your car once you’ve made your decision.
