Learn About How to Prep Your Vehicle for a Trade-In at the Dealership

May 23, 2022

So, you’re in the market for a new car and are thinking about trading in your current one for a credit? We love to see folks making fiscally responsible choices. Trade-ins are a great way to lower your monthly payments, and it’s a much faster process than the average private sale. Not sure how to go about getting your car ready for the trade-in process? No problem!

Let us help guide you through the process of how to get a vehicle ready for trade-in to ensure it’s ready to go. Just a few easy steps and your trusty ol’ car will be on its way to a new life, and you’ll be off on the road to a grand adventure in your brand new 2022 or 2023 model from Classic Auto Group!

What vehicles are currently in demand for trade-ins?

Electric, Alternative fuel, and hybrid vehicles are currently in very high demand thanks to environmental concerns as well as rising gas and oil prices. Second highest demand EVs and hybrid models are the regular mid-size sedans and compact cars.

How long should you keep a car before doing a trade-in?

Ultimately, this decision is up to you, but on average most vehicle owners trade their cars in after about three years of ownership.

How do I ensure that my car is trade-in ready?

Gather up all of the important documents, accessories, keys and manuals.

If you’re trading in your vehicle, it’s important to ensure that you have the proper paperwork. This includes insurance, service and repair records, the car’s title and registration. If you have multiple keys, digital media containing important owners manuals or nav system updates, or other bonus accessories, be sure those are in the vehicle when you’re ready for trade-in. If you still have payments left on your vehicle, bring that financial paperwork with you as well; when you’re trading in a car with a loan, the dealer will essentially be assuming the rest of the contract and pay it off.

Give your car a thorough once-over, and inspect it for dents, dings, and scratches, and then do your research to find the current market value of your car in its condition.

Do a physical inspection and visual assessment of your vehicle’s appearance, then take it for a test drive. You’ll want to make sure you note any noises, physical damage, or electrical issues. Knowing the current condition of your car is imperative for getting an estimated value, which is great to know before you negotiate your trade-in.

Bring your car in for a tune-up, and take care of any minor dashboard light warnings and quirky sounds.

You’ll want to make sure your car is fully in working order and running smoothly. Any minor issues such as lightbulb replacements, replacing floor mats, and checking fluid levels are all “topped off.” Get an oil change or fluids flush if possible. If your mechanic has noticed any major repairs or replacements are in order, you can note that to bring with you to the dealership for trade-in; issues like this may lower your trade-in value but the dealership is equipped to make those repairs. If you have any cracks, scratches, or stars in your windshield or windows, you should have those replaced as well.

Make sure your car is sparkling clean inside and out!

The first step to preparing your car for a trade-in is ensuring that it’s had a very thorough wash and wax by a professional grade car wash and detailing. Remove any leaves, debris, or bumper stickers from your vehicle if you are able. Clean out the trunk, side pockets, rear seat pockets, floors, and glovebox of all junk, old paperwork, and other trash. Doing these two steps prior to bringing the car in for a professional cleaning and detailing service will make the process faster and easier.