A vehicle trade-in is one of the best ways to leverage your old car into a brand-new ride. While the trade-in process is relatively straightforward, there's still plenty you can do beforehand to maximize your car's trade-in value.
Gather Your Documents
Before you take your vehicle to the dealership, make sure you have all of your vehicle's important documents on hand. These include the title to the vehicle and its registration, along with as many service records as you can find. Vehicles with a comprehensive service history tend to fetch more money than vehicles with a nonexistent service history.
If you can't find your vehicle's service records, then don't worry. If you've always brought your vehicle to the dealership for service, then the dealership should have digital access to those records.
Clean from Top to Bottom
Even though most dealerships claim they'll assess trade-ins regardless of their condition, a clean car makes a better first impression. Besides, you'll want to go through your car inside and out to make sure you don't leave anything behind. If you still have any personal possessions inside, make sure you remove them before taking your vehicle to the dealership.
Start by vacuuming the interior, removing as much dirt and debris as possible. Don't forget to check all of the nooks and crannies where grime and food can accumulate. If your vehicle has a leather interior, treat it with high-quality leather cleaner and conditioner.
Next, focus on the exterior of the vehicle. Give it a thorough wash using the two-bucket method to minimize grime and swirl marks. Start from the roof and work your way downwards, saving the wheels and tires for last. Finish up with a high-quality wax to protect the paintwork and give it a showroom-worthy shine.
If you don't have the time or space to thoroughly detail the vehicle yourself, you can always have a professional detailer do it. Â Â
Bring it Back to Stock
If you've made any modifications throughout your ownership, now is the time to bring everything back to stock. That includes common mods like aftermarket audio systems, alloy wheels, and suspension upgrades. While these upgrades may have added to your ownership experience, a completely stock vehicle gives you a better chance of getting top dollar for your trade-in.
Touch Up the Small Stuff
Whether it's a burned-out interior bulb, a scuffed door panel, or even a tiny scrape or dent, these seemingly minor flaws can have a pretty big impact on your vehicle's trade-in value. Take a walkaround of your vehicle and make a note of any flaws you happen to find. Most exterior flaws can be fixed with a little touch-up paint or a good buffing with the right compounds. You can even have minor dents fixed with affordable paintless dent repair by a seasoned professional. Check the interior for any broken vents, missing or worn knobs, worn seat bolsters, or scuffed door panels.
Don't Forget About Extras
If your vehicle came with an extra set of keys or an extra key fob, make sure you have those on hand for the dealer. Vehicles that came equipped with navigation systems should also have the correct CD or SD card installed. Round up all of the vehicle's instruction manuals, including those for the navigation system and other technology features.
Conduct One Last Inspection
Take one more walk around of your vehicle and make a note of any issues you happen to find. This way, you won't forget to do any of the items mentioned previously. Finally, take your own test drive of the vehicle and pay close attention to how it drives and whether there are any odd rattles or noises.
Make Your Own Appraisal
Knowing how much your own vehicle is worth gives you a great starting point when it comes to dealership negotiations. Car appraisal guides like Kelley Blue Book and NADAguides can help you find your vehicle's book value based on current information. You can also look around and find how much similar vehicles are selling for in your local area.
With this information on hand, you'll have a better idea of your vehicle's trade-in value and a better opportunity to get the most for your trade-in.