Want To Trade In Your Car? 3 Tips For Negotiating A Car Trade-In

If you have decided that you want to purchase a new vehicle and want to trade in your car at the dealership, you should get the best value for your vehicle.

Tip #1: Research the Value

Start by spending some time researching the value of your vehicle. There are numerous websites where you can put in details about your car's features and condition and get estimates as to the value of your vehicle.

You can also try to find a similar make and model to your vehicle for sale at dealerships and private party listings and see what it is being sold for.

From websites that estimate vehicle values to looking at what your vehicle is selling for in your area, all this information can allow you to come up with a nice, educated estimate on the approximate value of your vehicle. You should then have an idea of the high-end and low-end value for your vehicle.

When you trade-in your vehicle, and the salesperson asks what you want for the vehicle, you can start with the high-end value you researched, and you can set a standard to not accept below the low-end value for a trade-in.

Tip #2: Pay Attention to Timing

Timing can impact the value you get for trading in your vehicle. If gas prices are high, you are more than likely to get less value for a gas-guzzling vehicle you are trading in, as the demand for that type of vehicle will be low. On the other hand, if you are trying to trade in a fuel-efficient vehicle, you may be able to get a better value, as demand for fuel-efficient vehicles tends to go up when gas prices go up.

Tip #3: Improve the Curb Appeal of the Vehicle

Next, you are going to want to improve the curb appeal of the vehicle. You will have a better chance of getting a good value if you bring in a clean vehicle. Wash the outside of the vehicle and consider polishing it.

Really clean up the inside. Remove all personal items, vacuum inside, and be sure to pay attention to all the nooks and crannies. If your vehicle has a strong pet or smoke odor, have a detail shop run an ozone generator to remove any bad smells.

Although the dealership will clean the car up again before selling it, bringing in a car that looks well taken care of and clean will help you get the trade-in price you want.

If you have a vehicle that you want to trade in, pay attention to market timing, clean the vehicle up, and know your vehicle's worth. These simple steps will increase the chance that you will get the value you want for your trade-in, helping you save money on the new vehicle you are purchasing.

For more information, contact a dealership like The Car Buying Concierge.