We recently spoke about what dealers look for when evaluating a trade-in, so let’s now talk about what can be done to ensure you get the most value out of your vehicle. You'll want to make sure it's in the best possible condition and looking as good as reasonably possible. Here are a few tips on how to do just that.
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Clean your car inside and out: Something everyone thinks of when selling to an individual, this basic is often overlooked when trading a vehicle to a dealership - we aren’t sure why. Regardless, this includes vacuuming the carpets, dusting the dashboard, and wiping down all surfaces. A clean car makes a good impression on the human whose job it is to evaluate its value.
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Remove personal items: Similar to the above, make sure to remove all personal items, such as phone chargers, sunglasses, snacks, water bottles, bobbleheads, and paperwork from the car. This will give the dealership a better idea of the condition of the vehicle without having to sift through clutter.
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Make any necessary repairs: If your car has any dents, scratches, or other damage, and you have the means, we recommend taking care of it as best you can before you trade it in. Even small repairs can make a big difference in the value of your car. Small repairs, such as replacing a burned-out light bulb or fixing a broken mirror can have a big impact on the perceived value of your vehicle, and in reality save the dealership some labor costs of their own, as they ready the vehicle for resale.
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Gather maintenance records: Having a record of regular maintenance and repairs can demonstrate that you have taken good care of your vehicle. This instills confidence in the condition of what can’t easily be seen.
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Be prepared to negotiate: When trading in your car, be prepared to negotiate the price. Dealerships have tools that provide estimates on makes and models based on a variety of criteria, down to even local availability of specific colors. That said, a lot of factors are involved in any deal and a good dealership will be happy to work with you on a fair price.
By following these tips, you can get the most value for your car when you trade it in. Just remember to be patient and don't be afraid to negotiate. With a little effort, you can get the best possible deal on your new car on your way into your next vehicle.