If you've never needed a vehicle appraisal before, the first question is almost always the same: how much is this going to cost? The honest answer is "it depends on why you need it" — a straightforward registration appraisal and a detailed diminished value report involve very different amounts of research, so they're priced differently.

Typical Ontario vehicle appraisal pricing

As a general guide, here's what Ontario drivers can expect to pay for an independent online vehicle appraisal, for a standard passenger vehicle:

  • Pre-purchase or trade-in value appraisal: roughly $69-$99
  • MTO / Service Ontario registration appraisal: roughly $89-$149
  • Insurance (agreed value) appraisal: roughly $149-$229
  • Diminished value appraisal: roughly $199-$279

Classic, exotic, and heavily modified vehicles typically cost more to appraise across every category, since they require more research into comparable sales and, often, auction results rather than standard pricing guides. See our full pricing table for current rates.

What affects the price?

The purpose of the appraisal

A pre-purchase appraisal mainly needs to answer one question — is this a fair price? A diminished value appraisal needs to estimate two separate values (before and after an accident) and document the methodology clearly enough to support a discussion with an insurer. More work generally means a higher price.

The vehicle itself

Common vehicles with plenty of comparable sales data are faster — and cheaper — to appraise accurately than rare, modified, or heavily customized vehicles that require more manual research.

Turnaround time

Standard turnaround is typically included in the base price; rush service is usually available for an additional fee where the appraiser's schedule allows.

Is a cheap appraisal worth it?

Price shouldn't be the only factor. An appraisal is only useful if the party relying on it (an insurer, Service Ontario, a buyer, or a court) actually accepts its methodology and documentation. Before ordering the cheapest option you can find, check that the report will include the level of detail your specific situation requires — our services page breaks down what's included with each appraisal type.

Quick FAQs

Is a $45 online appraisal enough for my situation?
It depends what you need it for. A very basic, low-cost appraisal may be fine for a simple registration transfer, but a diminished value claim or a specialty insurance policy usually needs a more detailed report.
Do prices vary by city in Ontario?
No — because appraisals are completed online, pricing is the same whether you're in Toronto, Ottawa, or a small town with no local appraiser at all.