You might think a car keeps most of its value if you simply maintain it, but certain midsize models lose enough resale value that waiting to trade can wipe out thousands of dollars in equity. They should watch timing and model-specific trends closely to avoid steep depreciation and negative trade-in balances.

This article guides people through why timing matters and which familiar sedans often fall hardest in value, so they can decide whether to trade now or hold off. It highlights patterns across popular models and practical steps to protect equity without diving into deep technical details.

Toyota Camry

They’ve long counted the Camry as reliable, but certain model years show sharply higher repair risk. Buyers holding older sixth- and seventh-generation cars may face costly engine or transmission repairs that erode resale value.

If trade timing slips, owners could see dealer demand shift and parts costs rise for newer, more electronics-heavy Camrys. Read about model-year reliability trends at a guide to Toyota Camry best and worst years.

Honda Accord

The Accord often holds value but some model years develop costly problems that accelerate depreciation. Buyers watch for older Accords with transmission or electrical complaints that can make repairs pricey.

Owners who delay trading a problematic Accord may face high repair bills or steep drops in resale value. Researching specific model-year issues and current market demand helps avoid getting caught with a car that costs more than it’s worth.

Ford Fusion

The Fusion’s resale value can drop sharply on certain model years, especially those with recurring transmission or electrical complaints. Buyers and owners should watch market signals and repair histories to avoid getting stuck with steep depreciation.

If a Fusion has known trouble years or high repair records, trading sooner can limit out-of-pocket repairs and faster value erosion. Check aggregated owner reports and recall histories before deciding when to sell or trade.

Chevrolet Malibu

The Malibu has seen steadily declining resale value, so owners who wait risk bigger depreciation hits.
Later generations offer decent features but mixed reliability; some years perform much better than others.

Buyers should check model-year reliability guides and trade-in trends before holding on.
For more detail on which years to favor, see this Chevrolet Malibu buying guide.

Nissan Altima

The Altima has faced repeated transmission and CVT complaints that can lead to expensive repairs if deferred.
Buyers and owners should watch for shuddering, power loss, and premature failures that often show before 100,000 miles.

Nissan kept the Altima in production for 2026 with a sub-$30,000 entry, but resale values and long-term ownership costs may still decline.
Owners who want to avoid big repair bills should consider trading while the market still supports reasonable trade-in offers.

Hyundai Sonata

The Sonata’s value can drop sharply in certain years, especially hybrids and models with known engine issues. Buyers should check reliability histories before trading and avoid high-mileage examples from problematic model years.

Owners who delay a trade might face larger depreciation and repair costs. For guidance on which years to avoid, consult a year-by-year reliability guide like the one at CoPilot.

Kia Optima

Owners of some Kia Optima model years have faced sudden engine failures that can cost thousands in repairs. They may qualify for remedies under the Kia engine settlement, which covers certain Optima years and engine types details on eligibility.

Buyers and current owners should check repair history and warranty coverage before holding or buying these models. Trading sooner can avoid resale losses if an engine problem appears.

Volkswagen Passat

The Passat can lose value faster than buyers expect, especially older years with known engine and transmission issues. Owners who wait risk major repairs like timing chain or DSG failures that can cost thousands.

They should watch model years flagged for problems and prioritize inspections before buying or selling. Detailed year-by-year reliability notes help pinpoint which Passats to trade sooner rather than later: see a roundup of Passat years to avoid.

Subaru Legacy

The Legacy’s value can slide quickly as buyers shift toward SUVs and electrified models.
It ended production after the 2025 model year, so remaining examples may drop in demand and price.

Owners who wait to trade risk losing resale value, especially for higher-mileage or older trims.
Shoppers looking for a comparable wagon or crossover often choose the Outback, which has already undercut Legacy sales.
Consider selling or trading before inventory floods used markets.

Mazda6

The Mazda6 has solid reliability but shows faster depreciation once newer midsize sedans refresh their designs. Buyers who wait too long to trade may see lower offers, especially on older trims with higher mileage.

Well-maintained 2014–2017 models tend to hold value better than problem years, so condition matters. Trade timing and upkeep can reduce the risk of losing thousands when resale demand shifts.