5 Ways to Get the Best Trade-in Value for Cars

Once you’ve made the decision to purchase a new car, you may be left wondering what you should do with your old one. In general, there are three ways to get money for your car: selling it privately, selling it to a dealership, or trading it in.

Typically, trading in your car at a dealership is the most convenient option — and with our help, you’ll be able to get a fair offer that you’re happy with. Plus, you’ll be able to apply your car’s cash value towards the purchase of your next car. Keep reading for five ways to get the best trade-in value for cars!

5 Tips for Getting the Best Trade-in Value for Cars

A variety of factors can affect your car’s trade-in value, including its mileage, features, and overall condition. These tips and tricks can help you maximize your car’s value, so you can get the best offer possible.

1. Value Your Trade-in

When it comes to selling your car, the first step is to do your research and see how much your car is actually worth. Utilize online appraisal tools like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and our trade-in calculator to get an estimate of your car’s value. Simply input some information about your car — including its make, model, trim, mileage, condition, etc. — and you’ll have an estimate right away!

2. Enhance Your Car’s Curb Appeal

Now that you have a general sense of what your car is worth, it’s time to make sure your car looks its best. Overall, a clean car will be worth more than one that looks worn and poorly maintained. At the very least, wash and vacuum your car before going to get an appraisal. However, we recommend getting your car detailed and fixing any scratches or minor flaws that have accumulated over the years. Going the extra mile and thoroughly cleaning your car from the inside out will help you get the best trade-in value for cars.

3. Get Multiple Quotes

As much as you need to be shopping around for your new car, it’s just as important to “shop around” for a trade-in quote. Because trade-in offers can vary, it is in your best interest to get multiple quotes on your old car. Doing this will help you get a more well-rounded idea of your car’s value and see what people are willing to pay for it. Make sure you get these offers in writing, as they can be used as leverage when it’s time to negotiate. 

4. Time Your Trade-in Strategically

In order to get the best trade-in value for cars, timing is everything! While tangible factors like your car’s mileage and physical condition affect its value, other factors can also make a difference. For example, you may get a better or worse offer because of factors that are out of your control, like supply and demand or the time of year. Before trading in your vehicle, assess the market conditions and see what the current demand is for your car. Being strategic and patient can boost your car’s value, paying off in the end.

5. Negotiate the Offer

Believe it or not, you can haggle at a dealership! In fact, we encourage our customers to always do their own research to make sure they’re getting the best trade-in value. Come prepared with your online appraisal and any written trade-in quotes you’ve accumulated — and don’t be afraid to negotiate! While you do need to be realistic about how much you think your car is worth, you should also walk away with an offer that you feel comfortable with. 

Trade-in Your Car for a New Vehicle From M&L

When you bring your car to our dealership, we’ll help you put its cash value toward your next purchase. At M&L, we pride ourselves on offering the fairest trade-in offers, aiming to make the process as transparent and simple as possible. Getting the best trade-in value for cars can help you get a lower price and monthly payment on your new vehicle.

If you have any questions about how to trade-in your car, or how to get the best possible offer, don’t hesitate to contact us. And in the meantime, click the button below to value your trade and see what your car may be worth!