[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]How do 3D gel number plates impact car resale value, and is it worth getting them? Read this to learn what you need to know about it!

Got 3D gel plates on your car and want to sell it, but what to know, “how do 3D gel number plates impact car resale value”? There are a few ways that these plates impact the value of a vehicle if you want to sell it, and we will go through everything you should know before making a sale in this article.

Number Plate Clinic is the best alternative to Halfords for all of your number plate needs, and we pride ourselves in keeping you informed about everything in the world of number plates. From the new private plate laws of 2024, the most expensive number plate ever sold in the UK and why there is no Z in number plates, to the difference between legal and show plates and how to pick the perfect dimension plates for your vehicle.

To learn about how 3D gel plates impact the resale value of a car, and if you should consider getting them, keep reading.

About 3D Gel Number Plates

3D gel number plates have grown in popularity over recent years thanks to their glossy and attractive appearance. Also called 3D gel resin or 3D domed gel plates, these number plates are made with an acrylic or aluminium sheet base and the laser-cut characters are secured to it with an industrial adhesive.

These characters are then covered with a polyurethane gel resin, which gives them that attractive raised profile that we see on these plates (and also why they are called 3D gel resin plates).

The great thing is, 3D gel number plates are perfectly legal, unlike carbon gel plates, as long as you follow the rules and regulations set out by the government. This allows the plates to be scanned and identified by cameras, ULEZ, and ANPR without any issues whatsoever – if they couldn’t, these plates would not be legal in the first place.

It’s best to declare these plates for insurance, as they are classed as a modification.

What Factors Will Determine a Vehicle’s Resale Value?

You need to remember that there are several doctors that come into play when determining the resale value of a vehicle. We will go through the important ones below:

• Make of the Vehicle – a standard BMW will sell for more than a Honda, so you need to be realistic with what you expect to pay or ask for, and know when the price is too high for what you’re getting/selling.
• Condition of the Vehicle – the condition of a car refers to things like the electronics, mileage, bodywork, and a variety of other things. You want your car to be in good condition and have all the supporting documents to go along with it.
• Vehicle Colour – although the colour of a vehicle can be changed, the process may be costly and most people will avoid it where possible.
• Model of the Vehicle – similar to the above, there are some car models that are seen as superior for many reasons. We won’t name names, but you should have a good idea of which models are worth more than others.
• Mileage – how far your vehicle has driven will play a huge role in how much someone is willing to pay for it. As a general rule, you will want to look at the car’s age and multiply that number by 10,000 to determine if the mileage is above or below ‘normal’. For example, a 7-year-old car would ideally have driven around 70,000 miles.
• Modifications – finally, you will need to consider the modifications that have been done to the car and how much they cost. Examples include custom wheels and exhaust systems, spoilers, alloy wheels, paint jobs, improved sound systems, number plates and more.
• Age of the Vehicle – the age of your vehicle is crucial. Either the age will bring the value down, or it will make the value shoot up. We all love a classic car, but there’s a difference between a real classic and a used up vehicle that’s seen better days.
• Location – depending on where you live, there may be different standards and acceptable sales prices to consider

How do 3D Gel Number Plates Impact Car Resale Value

Number plates typically remain with the vehicle when you sell it, unless you apply to keep the plate and transfer it to another vehicle that you own. Since the plate stays with the car, it means that whatever number plate you have could play a role in buyer interest and value.

Since 3D gel number plates are a modification, and they are more visually appealing than standard licence plates, it makes sense that they are more eye-catching. As a result, a vehicle with these plate is likely to grab more interest.

3D gel plates also cost more than standard licence plates, with prices from Number Plate Clinic hovering around £60 without a discount. While this is not as much as 4D plates cost (with prices ranging from around £70 up to £90 or more), the additional cost compared to a standard plate (around £30) should not go unnoticed, and should be something that you charge extra for if you are selling your vehicle.

The Vehicle Stands Out More

In order to get a buyer, you want your car to stand out from the crowd and pull people in. This is exactly what 3D gel plates do.

Without interest, you can’t sell your vehicle. If you have a number plate that people find attractive, your car is more likely to be memorable, get more attention, and be sold at a higher price.

Maintain the Number Plate and Vehicle Well

All of the above is only true if you remember to take care of your number plate and maintain it to keep it in good shape. Any number plate that has seen better days will be off-putting to a potential buyer, as they will need to get a new one imminently.

Clean your number plate with the appropriate cleaners and never use harsh chemicals on it that will have an adverse effect on the materials. Not only that, but make sure that the plate is secured to the vehicle properly, and with all the right bits and pieces.

If you do this, then people will be willing to pay more for your plate, and by extension, your vehicle.

Should You Get 3D Gel Number Plates?

There are lots of reasons to get 3D gel number plates, with a lot of emphasis on their improved appearance and durability. However, there is something that you might not immediately think of when it comes to these plates: security.

3D Plates Prevent Theft

It’s important to remember that having custom plates and modifications can help you reduce the chances of theft. Whether this is theft of the vehicle itself, the number plate, or cloning the plate, paying a bit extra for something different plays a role in protecting yourself and your vehicle.

Visit the Number Plate Clinic

Number plates are always on display, which means that they will always be noticed. If you have been planning to sell your car and want to get the best price possible, modification plates like 3D gels and also 4D plates are a great way to go about it.

To find out more, why not check out our terms and conditions? Before making a purchase, we suggest reading through our privacy and refund policies, and maybe even exploring our affiliate program and workshop. If you want to speak to customer service, we would love to hear from you.

So, how do 3D gel number plates impact car resale value? They are more eye-catching and expensive than standard plates, which will immediately get anyone’s interest. These plates are attractive and durable, and 100% legal – so it only makes sense for them to increase the value of your vehicle.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]