When selling a vehicle, it can be tempting to continue using it until the sale is complete. However, this practice comes with risks that could impact its value and condition. Parking the car while it's on the market not only preserves mileage and appearance but also minimizes the chance of unexpected damage. This article explores why it’s advisable to limit driving a collector car you're selling and presents a real-life example of how an unforeseen incident can reduce resale value.

The Benefits of Keeping Your For-Sale Car Parked

Leaving your for-sale vehicle parked serves multiple practical purposes. First, it ensures that the odometer reading remains consistent with what is advertised, reducing discrepancies between listing and actual mileage. Additionally, minimal use decreases the likelihood of mechanical issues arising before the sale. If the car has been professionally detailed, keeping it in storage helps maintain its pristine condition, making it more appealing to potential buyers.

Parking the vehicle also reduces the risk of cosmetic damage. Each time you drive, there's a slight possibility of minor dings or scratches occurring. While these small imperfections might not drastically affect the resale value of an average-condition car, they can still detract from its overall appeal. Moreover, more severe damage, such as accidents, can significantly lower the car's value, as illustrated by a recent incident involving a 1993 Toyota Corolla DX wagon.

A Real-Life Example of Unexpected Damage

In early 2025, a 1993 Toyota Corolla DX wagon, which had been meticulously maintained by its single owner since new, faced an unfortunate turn of events. The car, with 159,000 miles on the clock, was up for auction on Bring A Trailer when an accident occurred. While stopped at a red light, the elderly driver behind accidentally rolled forward, denting the rear passenger side bumper. Although no one was injured and there was no mechanical damage, the visible dent and crease in the quarter panel raised concerns about the car's structural integrity.

This incident led to a significant drop in the car's final sale price. Initially, the highest bid stood at $4,000, but after the accident, the bidding process was reset, and the car eventually sold for $3,500. Considering similar Corolla wagons have traded for much higher prices—ranging from $8,300 to $10,250—the damage could have cost the seller thousands of dollars. This case underscores the importance of minimizing the use of a vehicle while it's on the market to avoid such financial losses.