Vehicle Trade-in Checklist

Appraise Your Trade

Use our fast, online tool in order to receive your trade-in’s market report. This report is a breakdown of a trade-in’s value, according to current supply and demand trends.

It also details similar vehicles that are being sold near you, along with their estimated values. This printable online report is here to give you a broad idea of your trade-in’s value and is the first step in the trade-in process.

This tool also provides an estimated value range, which depends heavily on the condition of the car you’re trading in. Things like its mileage will play a factor in narrowing down exactly how much your trade-in is worth.

In the next section, we’ll discuss how you can maximize your trade-in’s value, so you can get a great offer to put toward your next vehicle.

Boost Your Trade-in Value

Generally speaking, when it comes to a trade-in, the better the condition, the better the offer. If your trade-in vehicle is at its prime, you should have no problem receiving great value for it.

However, we understand that life happens. Over years of driving, your car may not be in tip-top shape. That’s why taking the time to fix those minor—or even major—maintenance issues may be something to consider.

This could mean getting your car up to date with routine maintenance like an oil change, checking the tire pressure, repairing or replacing the brakes, and so on. You could also choose to correct any superficial issues, like stains, scrapes, dings, or dents.  

Making these efforts are sure to make your trade-in even more appealing to dealerships and could put more value toward your next vehicle.

Get Your Car Detailed

Now that your trade-in is in better condition, it’s time for its inside to match its outside. Get your car professionally detailed in order to clean out and restore its interior. A full detail includes:

• Getting rid of any personal trash, napkins, car accessories, etc.
• Vacuuming the entire interior, including the trunk and underneath/between the seats
• Wiping down any leather-trimmed seats and the display screens
• Airing out the interior to remove any unpleasant smells

You could also ride through the car wash, and then your car will be in its perfect trade-in condition!

Collect Important Documents

When heading for your car’s drop-off, there are a few important documents to bring with you, like:

• Driver’s license and social security number
• Your bank information
• The car’s title
• Your proof of insurance

Schedule a Drop-off

You’ll also want to select the best date and time for your car’s drop-off. One of our friendly team members will meet with you, go over all the details of the trade-in offer, and perform a quick and final inspection. You’ll be asked to hand over any and all keys, and—just like that—your trade deal is done!