When considering a car’s resale value, most drivers usually consider age, maintenance records, and age. But a new study shows that blue and black cars have the worst resale value, and millions of drivers already own them.
A New Look at Car Depreciation
NexusMedia has used data from EasySearch to examine resale values for the ten best-selling models. According to the findings, the average five-year depreciation increased from 38.8% in 2023 to 45.6% in 2025, with electric vehicles experiencing a nearly 60% depreciation. One of the best indicators of how much a motorist would lose when selling a car was the color of the paint. This data demonstrated that paint color was an important consideration when purchasing and reselling a car, in addition to mileage and technology.
Blue Cars Are the Biggest Losers
The study found that blue colors lose their value most, with an average depreciation of 27.1% over five years. This equals a staggering $12,449. According to Kelly Blue Book, blue paint tends to show scratches, swirl marks, and water spots more easily and quickly than other shades. This makes its upkeep more difficult.
Despite this finding, blue still remains a popular choice, holding 9% of market share last year according to Edmunds.
Black Cars are Sleek but Costly
Black cars came second after blue with a depreciation of 23.3% on average, which is about $10,804. However, black is still one of the most common colors on the road with 22% of the U.S market according to Edmunds.
Although many buyers were attracted by the sleek look of a black car fresh out of the wash, the reality is that dirt, dust, and pollen settle almost immediately. This makes it hard to keep them looking clean and pristine. Buyers showed less interest in black used cars, leading to weaker resale value.
How Other Car Colors Compare
Besides blue and black, the study found the following about other widely available shades:
- Red: 21.6% depreciation, losing about $8,776
- Silver: 21.3% depreciation, losing about $8,232
- White: 18% depreciation, losing about $7,067
According to these figures, it is clear that the white proved to be the best car at only 18% depreciation. This explains why it is the most common on American roads with a 25% market share. There was a difference of more than $5,000 in depreciation between white and blue colors. This proves that color, which many people consider a minor factor at the dealership, can have major financial consequences.
Why Car Color Matters More Than You Think
NexusMedia researchers noted that the car color had a bigger impact beyond aesthetics. According to a NexusMedia spokesperson, market perception, psychology, and technology have all influenced automotive depreciation, which is no longer merely a predictable financial reality.
They went on to say that although most buyers prioritize maintenance and mileage, even seemingly little decisions like color can have a big impact on long-term value in unexpected ways.
The study on how colors affect a car’s resale value shows that cars are also lifestyle statements and not just means of transport. It is evident that the color you choose can determine how much you lose when reselling the car.
Resale Reality Check for Buyers
While going in the market to buy a new car, it is worth rethinking bold color choices. While blue and black look stunning and sleep on the roads, they might come with huge financial losses years later. On the other hand, while silver and white might not turn heads, they may offer better protection against depreciation in the long run.
While depreciation is accelerating, especially among EVs, drivers who own blue and black cars should lower their expectations when considering resale.
Conclusion
Choosing a blue or black car could see drivers lose up to $12,000 in depreciation. While black and blue cars are stunning, they offer the worst resale value. White and silver offer stronger protection for owners who consider reselling their cars later on.
As depreciation rates continue to accelerate, the color of a car should be considered as a major factor for millions of drivers when buying a car.