"What's my car worth?" is the first question every seller asks. The answer depends on several factors—some you can control, and some you can't.
Understanding the CQ Market
Central Queensland has a unique used car market. Here's what makes it different:
What Sells Well in CQ
- 4WDs and dual-cab utes - Always in demand. HiLux, Ranger, D-MAX, and Triton hold value exceptionally well.
- Diesel vehicles - Fuel economy matters when distances are long. Diesel commands a premium.
- Towing-capable vehicles - Boats, caravans, and trailers are part of CQ life. Towing capacity adds value.
- Air-conditioned everything - Working A/C is essential. A car without working A/C is worth significantly less.
What's Harder to Sell
- European luxury brands - Limited local service options make buyers cautious
- High-performance sports cars - Small market, limited practical use
- Older, high-km vehicles - CQ puts cars through their paces; buyers are wary of worn-out vehicles
How to Estimate Your Car's Value
Step 1: Check Online Marketplaces
Look at what similar vehicles are selling for (not just listed at) on:
- Carsales
- Facebook Marketplace
- Gumtree
Be realistic. That listing sitting at top dollar for three months? That's not the market price—that's an overpriced car that won't sell.
Step 2: Consider the CQ Premium
Some vehicles are worth more in CQ than in Brisbane:
- Dual-cab 4WD utes - Can be $2,000-$5,000 more than capital city prices
- LandCruisers - Both 70 Series and 200/300 Series hold exceptional value
- Practical SUVs - Prado, MU-X, Everest—all attract strong CQ demand
Step 3: Adjust for Condition
Be honest about your car's condition:
Above Average:
- Full service history with a dealer or reputable mechanic
- No accidents or damage
- Low km for age
- All features working (especially A/C!)
- Good tyres and brakes
Average:
- Some service history
- Minor wear consistent with age/km
- No major mechanical issues
Below Average:
- Missing service history
- Visible damage or poor presentation
- High km for age
- Mechanical issues
- Non-working features
Real Examples from CQ
Here are some recent examples of what we've achieved for CQ sellers:
| Vehicle | Condition | Trade-In Offer | Our Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Toyota HiLux SR5 | Above Average | $42,000 | $49,500 |
| 2018 Mazda CX-5 GT | Average | $26,000 | $31,000 |
| 2017 Isuzu D-MAX LS-T | Above Average | $35,000 | $41,000 |
| 2020 Ford Ranger XLT | Average | $45,000 | $52,500 |
That's real money you leave on the table if you trade in without exploring your options.
The Trade-In Trap
Dealers love trade-ins because they make money twice—once by undervaluing your trade, and again when they resell it.
The convenience tax: Yes, trade-in is easy. But that convenience typically costs you 10-20% of your car's value.
The "we'll match any price" promise: Dealers often say this to stop you shopping around. But they'll find reasons why the other price "doesn't count" or they'll claw it back on the new car price.
Private Sale vs. Using a Broker
Private Sale Pros
- Potentially highest price (if you're good at negotiating)
- Direct control over the process
Private Sale Cons
- Dealing with tyre-kickers and no-shows
- Security concerns with strangers coming to your home
- Paperwork and legal compliance
- Time investment in photos, listings, enquiries, inspections
Using CQ Car Brokers
- Professional photography and listing
- We screen all enquiries—you only meet serious buyers
- Handle all negotiations
- Manage paperwork and legal requirements
- Typically achieve close to private sale prices with none of the hassle
Getting Your Free Valuation
We offer free, no-obligation valuations for CQ sellers. Here's what we need:
- Make, model, and year
- Kilometres
- Service history status
- Any damage or issues
- Photos (exterior, interior, odometer)
Request your free valuation and we'll get back to you within 24 hours with an honest assessment of what your car is worth—and how we can help you get it.
