Jul 27, 2021

Car Dealer Secrets How to Prepare your Used Car for Trade-In

Trading in your car to a dealership might be quite a convenient task to opt for, however it needs a lot of preparation in order to grab the best deal. Knowing the secrets to prepare your used car for trade-in makes a world of difference. Here are a few of the car dealer secrets that you must be aware of.

  • A thorough appraisal process:

Each and every trade-in process is different, although they tend to be similar in their ways. It is essential to learn the things you must expect when the vehicle is sent to the appraiser in order to get the value. Dealers mostly like to evaluate if you have traded earlier.

You must get the appraisal process done. By handing the keys to the vehicle appraiser the manager or a salesperson tends to walk around the trade-in vehicle to inspect it well. This process is known as silent walk around.

  • Make money:

If you wish to make the most money from the deal, then you must pay attention to a few tips:

  1. Make sure you think in the same way as a used car appraiser
  2. Wax the car
  3. Inspect the engine compartment and clean it properly
  4. Clean the compartments of the vehicle and empty them
  5. Make sure you change the windshield wipers
  6. Get the tarnished headlights restored
  7. Get the broken light bulbs replaced
  8. Replace the fluids of the car
  9. Replace the air filter and a few other necessary touch-ups
  • Trade-in value:

If you wish to trade in with a good value, it is essential to have a clear estimation of your own car. Based on this, you will be able to trade in better. Although bargaining with the dealer can be annoying, however, a few tips as mentioned below can help you.

Know everything about the car, such as the age of the vehicle, the average wear and tear, its mileage, previous history of accidents, current market value and more. When you have a good idea of the value of your car, it can be difficult for the dealer to settle for a lower price.

Based on this, you must figure the value of your trade-in. Keep this value in mind and be as fair and honest as possible.

  • Junk car:

Junk cars are a type of cars which are old and damaged. These cars are in a condition where it can be challenging to sell the car; only a few parts can be traded in for. However, at this point, too, you must negotiate well with the dealer to offer you what you deserve. Know the market value of the car parts and know the trade-in value and bid accordingly.