Sell Your Car Now or Wait Until 2026? Market Value Analysis for Car Owners in Vietnam
The used car market in Vietnam is entering a transitional phase. Many car owners are asking the same question: Should I sell my car now, or wait until 2026 and hope for a better price? To make a smart decision, you need to assess depreciation, maintenance costs, market demand, and your financial goals.
Market Trends: What Will Happen to Used Cars by 2026?
1. Used car prices are entering a strong depreciation cycle
Cars between 3 to 5 years old lose value the fastest
Once a car enters the “older model” category, its market value can drop by an additional 8% to 12% per year
2. Supply will increase significantly by 2026
New locally assembled models are expected to receive pricing advantages, pushing more used cars into the market
The rise of electric vehicles in Vietnam will put additional pressure on used gasoline car prices
When supply increases, selling later may not guarantee a better price
Real Cost of Keeping Your Car Until 2026
| Cost Component | Average Yearly Impact |
| Depreciation of vehicle value | 8% – 12% of current market value |
| Maintenance and unexpected repair expenses | 7 – 15 million VND |
| Insurance and registration fees | 4 – 6 million VND |
| Market price fluctuation risk | Likely to happen, hard to predict |
Even if you expect a better price in 2026, the combined loss from depreciation and maintenance may exceed the extra value you are hoping for.
When Selling Now Is the Better Financial Move
You should sell your car now rather than wait if:
Your car is still in a high-value stage (under 5 years old)
You plan to upgrade or switch cars within the next 1–2 years
Repair and maintenance costs are starting to increase
You prefer to free up capital instead of keeping it in a depreciating asset
To check your current car value before making a decision, you can request a free market-based valuation HERE.
When Waiting Could Still Make Sense
You may consider keeping your car longer if:
Your car is still very new and not entering a depreciation peak yet
You do not have financial pressure and usage cost remains low
You are aware of market risks but accept the potential drop in value
However, even if you decide not to sell immediately, it is essential to monitor your car’s market value regularly to avoid missing the ideal selling window.
Smart Strategy: Check Market Value First, Decide Later
Instead of guessing the right timing, follow a data-driven approach:
Get a free valuation from Motorist.vn to understand your car’s real-time value
Compare it with the expected depreciation over the next 12 to 24 months
If the potential value loss is higher than your expected gain, selling now is the more profitable move
If you want a hassle-free selling experience with transparent buyer connection, visit HERE.
Final Decision: Sell Now or Wait Until 2026?
To maximise your selling price, timing matters more than waiting for the market
Delaying for too long can reduce your car’s value more than you expect
The best move is to check your car valuation today and decide based on updated market numbers
To make an informed selling decision, start with a free valuation at Motorist.vn.
- Check your car’s market value instantly.
- Submit enquiry to sell your car and get the best offer from 600+ verified dealers across Vietnam.
Motorist.vn helps car owners in Vietnam sell smarter, avoid underpricing, and secure better offers without hassle.
