How to Trade in a Car

Step One: Figure Out Your Vehicle’s Value

The first step in trading in a car is doing some research. Tools like a trade-in calculator or car value estimator will provide you with an understanding of how much your current vehicle is worth.

This information will be useful because it gives you an estimate of how much you can expect to put down toward your next vehicle. Then, you can decide if want to proceed with trading. On the other hand, you can decide to choose another vehicle to trade your car in for.

Additionally, understanding how much you can expect for your current car will put you on common ground with your sales agent; you’ll have a starting point from which to negotiate the final price.

Step Two: Prepare Your Car

The next step is preparing your car for the appraisal. It’s at this stage that you can learn further how to boost the trade-in value. Fortunately, you don’t have to look too far since we have the tips you need here.

Preparing your vehicle to get the most value out of it involves:

• Thoroughly cleaning the interior and exterior
• Scheduling any necessary maintenance services
• Taking in your vehicle for minor repairs

You should also remove any personal belongings that you still have inside your vehicle at this step so that it’s ready to make the best impression. Once your car is ready, set up an appraisal appointment at a dealership.

Step Three: Visit the Dealer

At step three, it’s time to visit the dealer for an official vehicle appraisal before your trade-in. An appraiser will inspect all around your vehicle to evaluate its condition by the presence of wear and tear, damages, stains, and more.

The year, make, and model of your car will also be taken into account.

While waiting for your vehicle to be valued, you can explore our inventory and test drive the vehicles that you’re interested in. After all, you are trading in your car for another one, so this is the perfect time to look at your options.

Once our professionals finish evaluating your car and give you an offer, all you have to do is decide on the model that you want in exchange, set up your payment plan, hand over your keys, and drive off in your new ride.