P is for...

Paint

Arguably the most important decision you’ll make about your new car is its colour. Jeff Paterson at Glass’s Guide says used buyers are very picky about paint finishes. “You might want a specific colour and trim combination to reflect your personality, but you have to ask yourself if your desired scheme will reflect the people purchasing it in a few years’ time,” he told us. 

His advice for the best returns is to think conservative, with safe metallic shades such as silver and grey performing best on used forecourts. The exception to this rule is reserved for sporty models, which will sell even in bold colours.