Watching the latest commercial for that great new car can really make you want to swap your older car in for a new one! If you’re seriously considering doing so, then consider these tips for trading in your car.
1. Check The Value
Before bringing your car for swap, be sure to check out its value. There are two basic ways. The first most known way is by checking its value in the Kelley Blue Book online. Via this website, you can check the precise value of your car, down to the digit, by keying in factors such as year, mileage, accessories, and more.
After discovering the objective value online, you’ll also need to understand how its value is perceived within the region where you are selling. Like all products, value is weighed by local demand. Car value might be high in urban centers, for example, and somewhat lower in rural areas where the demand is low. Knowing these fluctuations can help you determine whether you should definitely trade locally, go out of state, or perhaps hang on to your car a little longer.
2. Clean A Little, Not a Lot
There are mixed views about whether it’s worth the time and money to clean up your car prior to trading it. Common sense is a good compromise. While heading to your local mechanic to purchase a car detailing service might not be worth the bucks, you could definitely do some minor vacuuming on your own, wipe the windows, and scrub the stains. Most importantly, remove your personal items and get rid of any smells. Try to get your car to look as good as possible without spending extra cash.
3. Explain The Advantages
When you’re negotiating a trade-in of your vehicle, be respectful, but not shy! Do not hesitate to inform your buyer of all the things you really love about your car. If there are modern updates or perks which might not be immediately noticeable, like a great stereo system, be sure to inform the dealer. Perhaps the engine is really powerful, and those wheels have gotten you through really rough terrain. Do not be afraid to share these details; it certainly can help!
4. Be Honest With Yourself, Too
Trading in your fave set of wheels can be a more prickly experience than some might imagine. Cars do tend to depreciate quickly, and yet, you know personally all the advantages of your car and how great it is. If you like your car and think it’s worth a lot, then don’t be afraid to pass on an offer you’re not truly happy with. If you’d rather keep your wheels with you, or sell it for cash instead of a trade, then stick it out! You never know what opportunity you’ll be offered in the future.
Trading in your car can be a great experience, especially if you find the car of your dreams and make the perfect switch. Keep these ideas in mind when you’re out there looking, and be sure to enjoy the car buying experience, too.
Image via Flickr by Michel Curi
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