How to Get the Best Trade In Value
Posted on February 2, 2018
The Check Engine light is on, there’s a rip in the backseat, and scratches in the paint. The fuel mileage isn’t as good as it used to be, and you don’t drive when the roads are icy because you don’t have traction. It’s time for a new car, but you know your trade in value isn’t going to be very good at all.
Even though your car has seen better days, you can do a few things to get the best trade in value possible for your situation. After all, it’s the small things that matter when you’re trading in your car.
Improve Your Trade In Value
Fix Warning Lights
The ABS brakes warning light, low oil pressure light, oil change reminder, TPMS warning, and even the fuel light – get them fixed. When your car is lit up like a Christmas tree, it’s like telling the dealership your car is going to cost big money to recondition. Have warning lights repaired to improve your trade in value.
Make Sure There Is Tread
For most vehicles, a set of tires is around $1,000. If you can’t get traction on the road even when it’s dry, you can count on your trade in value being cut by about a grand. Have a set of tires installed – used or economy-priced – so you can get the best trade in value for your car.
Clean Your Car
If your car is full of your personal effects, empty soda cups from fast food joints, and a year’s worth of gravel and dirt, it’s going to affect your trade in value negatively. The caked-on dirt look doesn’t help with a good valuation either.
Spend an afternoon giving your car a good once-over. Clean everything out of the interior, give it a wipe-down, and vacuum up all the dirt that’s gathered on the floors. A good car wash is in order too.
Make it look like you’ve taken good care of your car and your trade in value will be better for it.
