AA Car Valuation: How It Works

What Is the AA Car Valuation and How Does It Work?

An AA car valuation gives you an instant estimate of what your vehicle is worth using current market data. You simply enter your registration number and email address online to receive a free valuation within moments.

The registration number is used to identify your vehicle automatically, helping to generate an estimated value based on factors such as its make, model, age and current market conditions. Once you've received your valuation, you can choose whether you'd like to explore selling your car through the AA's optional selling service.

The valuation itself is completely free. If you decide to use the selling service and your vehicle is successfully sold, a fee applies as part of that service.

How to get an AA valuation of a vehicle, step by step

Getting an AA car valuation only takes a few minutes. The online estimate is free to receive, and you'll only pay a fee if you choose to use the AA's optional selling service and your car is successfully sold.

1. Enter your registration number and email address.
2. Confirm your vehicle details.
3. Get your instant online valuation.
4. Choose whether to use the optional selling service.

Check Your AA Car Value by Registration

One of the quickest ways to estimate your car's value is by using its registration number. The AA car valuation calculator uses your vehicle's reg to identify key details automatically, including the make, model, year and specification, so there's no need to enter this information manually.

After you've entered your registration number, you'll usually be asked to confirm a few details, such as the vehicle's mileage and that the correct car has been identified. This helps the valuation calculator generate a more accurate estimate using your vehicle's details and current market data.

Because much of the information is retrieved automatically from your registration, the process is fast and straightforward. Whether you're planning to sell your car, compare its value or simply want to know what it's worth today, a registration-based car valuation calculator provides an instant estimate in just a few steps.

What affects the value of your car

Your registration identifies the vehicle, but several other factors influence its estimated market value, including:

• Mileage
• Age
• Overall condition
• Service history
• Number of previous owners
• MOT status
• Current market demand
• Colour
• Factory-fitted and optional extras

These factors help build a more accurate estimate of what buyers are currently paying for similar vehicles. The online valuation is an estimate based on the information available, so the final selling price may vary depending on your car's condition and the wider used car market.

Valuing a van or older used car

If you're looking to value a van, you can use Regit's dedicated Free Van Valuation tool for an instant estimate.

Older vehicles and cars with higher mileage can still be valued online, giving you a quick indication of their current market value.

AA Vehicle Inspections and Car Checks: Costs and What They Cover

It's important not to confuse an AA car valuation with an AA vehicle inspection. They are separate services designed for different purposes.

An AA vehicle inspection is a paid pre-purchase inspection carried out on eligible used vehicles (up to 20 years old). The inspection assesses the vehicle's condition and highlights any faults or areas of concern before you buy.

The AA Car Check is a separate vehicle history check, providing information such as outstanding finance, insurance write-off records, mileage records and whether the vehicle has been reported stolen.

AA car inspection prices: Basic, Comprehensive and Advanced

*Comprehensive and Advanced inspection prices vary depending on the vehicle type and engine size.

Do you need an inspection to get a valuation?

No. An AA car valuation is completed online and does not require a vehicle inspection. AA inspections assess a vehicle's mechanical and cosmetic condition rather than determining its market value.

Free checks before you buy or sell: MOT history and car history

Before paying for a vehicle inspection, it's worth carrying out a few free checks first.

Regit's MOT History Check lets you view previous MOT results, advisories and mileage records, while the Car History Check helps you uncover important information about a vehicle's background, including whether it has outstanding finance or has previously been written off.

These checks can help you make a more informed decision whether you're buying or selling a used vehicle.

About The AA

The Automobile Association (AA) was founded in 1905 and is the UK's largest breakdown assistance organisation. Alongside roadside assistance, insurance and driving services, it also operates AA Cars, its used car marketplace, where motorists can search for vehicles, obtain online valuations and access buying and selling services.