Tobacco use and asking prices of used cars: prevalence, costs, and new opportunities for changing smoking behavior

2008

Tobacco Use and Asking Prices of Used Cars

Sample size: 1642 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Matt Georg E, Romero Romina, Ma Debbie S, Quintana Penelope J E, Hovell Melbourne F, Donohue Michael, Messer Karen, Salem Simon, Aguilar Mauricio, Boland Justin, Cullimore Jennifer, Crane Marissa, Junker Jonathan, Tassinario Peter, Timmermann Vera, Wong Kristen, Chatfield Dale

Primary Institution: San Diego State University

Hypothesis

In a community with extensive public health education campaigns, smoke-free cars would be offered at a premium compared to smoker cars.

Conclusion

Used nonsmoker cars were offered at a considerable premium above their Kelley Blue Book value and above comparable smoker cars.

Supporting Evidence

22% of used cars were advertised by smokers or had been smoked in during the previous year.
94% of nonsmokers did not allow smoking in their car during the past year.
Only 33% of smokers had the same restrictions.
Used nonsmoker cars were offered at a premium above their Kelley Blue Book value.

Takeaway

This study found that cars sold by smokers or that had been smoked in are worth less than smoke-free cars, showing that people prefer to buy cars that haven't been exposed to smoke.