Does Car Colour Affect Its Value? UK Guide to Car Colour and Resale
Car Owl
Published in English •
Summary
- White, black, and grey sell fastest and hold value best in the UK.
- Unusual colours can hurt resale: Bright green, orange, or yellow cars appeal to fewer buyers.
- Premium colours on premium cars are different: A special colour on a Porsche can add value, not reduce it.
When you bought your car, you probably chose a colour you liked. But did you know that colour could affect what it's worth when you sell?
Here's how car colour impacts resale value in the UK — and what to consider when choosing your next car.
Most Popular Car Colours in the UK
The most popular new car colours in the UK are:
- Grey (24%)
- Black (20%)
- White (18%)
- Blue (16%)
- Red (9%)
These five colours account for nearly 90% of all new car sales. Popular colours are easier to sell because more people want them.
Best Colours for Resale Value
| Colour | Impact on Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White | Positive (+2-5%) | Very popular, especially on SUVs and premium cars |
| Black | Positive (+1-3%) | Classic, always in demand |
| Grey/Silver | Neutral | Safe, popular, easy to sell |
| Blue | Neutral | Good all-rounder, popular with families |
| Red | Slightly negative | Popular on sporty cars, less so on family cars |
| Green | Negative (-5-10%) | Limited appeal, harder to sell |
| Yellow/Orange | Negative (-5-15%) | Very niche, much harder to sell |
| Brown/Beige | Negative (-5-10%) | Unpopular, especially on smaller cars |
When Unusual Colours ADD Value
There are exceptions. On some cars, a special colour can actually increase value:
- Sports cars: A yellow Porsche or red Ferrari is expected. Standard colours may actually reduce their appeal.
- Special editions: Limited-edition colours become collectible.
- Classic cars: Original colours, even unusual ones, are worth more than resprays.
- Premium paint options: A £2,000 paint option on a BMW or Mercedes can add value because buyers know it costs more.
Does Colour Affect Insurance?
In the UK, car colour does not directly affect your insurance premium. Insurers don't ask about colour when quoting.
However, custom paint jobs or wraps count as modifications. These can increase your premium. Always declare modifications to your insurer. Read our insurance guide for more details.
Tips for Choosing a Colour
- If resale value matters: Stick with white, black, grey, or blue.
- If you want something different: Be prepared to wait longer when selling and accept slightly less.
- Consider the car type: A red Mini looks great. A red MPV is a harder sell.
- Metallic is better: Metallic and pearlescent finishes hold value better than solid colours.
Check what your car is worth right now with our car valuation guide.
Colour might seem like a small thing. But when you sell, it can mean hundreds of pounds either way. Choose wisely and you'll thank yourself when it's time to move on.
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