The used car market in India has changed drastically in the last few years. In 2025, resale value is no longer just about mileage and brand — it’s also about RC expiry, fitness status, and compliance with regional bans like the 15-year petrol and 10-year diesel rule in Delhi-NCR.
If you are planning to sell your old car or buy a used one, understanding how these rules impact prices can help you make smarter decisions.
📉 How Age and Expiry Rules Affect Car Resale Value
1️⃣ RC Expiry = Immediate Value Drop
Vehicles nearing their RC expiry (15 years for petrol, 10 years for diesel in Delhi-NCR) see a steep price drop.
Buyers hesitate to pay premium prices since they may not be able to use the car for long.
2️⃣ Diesel Cars Hit the Hardest
Diesel cars older than 8–9 years are selling at a significant discount because of the 10-year cap.
Owners outside NCR can still buy them, but logistics and RC transfer costs reduce demand locally.
3️⃣ Fitness Test Uncertainty
In states where fitness testing after RC expiry is allowed, cars still lose value if they are about to be tested.
A failed fitness test means forced scrapping, which discourages buyers from paying good money.
4️⃣ Scrappage Policy Incentives
The new scrappage policy offers small benefits (like 4–6% discount on new cars) for scrapping old vehicles.
This puts an unofficial “price ceiling” on over-age vehicles — buyers won’t pay more than scrap + transfer costs.
5️⃣ Fuel Type Matters More Than Ever
CNG and petrol cars under 10 years hold better resale value in 2025 because they are future-proof for longer.
Diesel cars are depreciating faster, especially in metro cities due to stricter emission norms.
📊 Real-World Example
| Car Type | Age | Approx. Resale Value (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel SUV (Delhi NCR) | 9 years | 20–30% lower than non-NCR regions | Buyers hesitant due to nearing 10-year expiry |
| Petrol Hatchback | 12 years | Drops by 40–50% after year 13 | Hard to sell after 15-year mark |
| Petrol Sedan (CNG Fitted) | 8 years | Holds value better | Seen as low-cost, NCR-compliant car |
💡 Tips to Get the Best Price for Your Car
Check RC Expiry Before Selling
Use Car Expiry Calculator to see how many months are left before your RC expires.
Sell Early if Nearing Expiry
The closer you are to 10 or 15 years, the more your resale value drops.
Get a Fresh PUC and Service Done
A car with valid PUC and service history sells faster and at a higher price.
Consider Selling Outside NCR
If you own a diesel car nearing 10 years, look for buyers in states where age-based bans are not enforced.
Plan for Scrapping if No Buyers
Sometimes, scrapping and availing the incentive for a new car makes more financial sense than trying to sell.
🧠 Key Takeaway
In 2025, regulations are as important as your car’s condition when it comes to resale value.
Selling before RC expiry can get you 15–20% more than waiting until the ban kicks in.
Always check your vehicle’s age, RC validity, and PUC status before listing it for sale — and if you’re buying a used car, confirm that it won’t be banned in your city within a year or two.