How To Trade In Your Car
If you're thinking about upgrading your vehicle, trading it in can be a convenient and financially savvy option. Trading in your car allows you to offset the cost of your new purchase by using the value of your current vehicle. At Fletcher Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR), we understand the importance of providing our Greenwood, New Whiteland, and Franklin, IN, customers with a seamless trade-in process.
In this guide to how to trade in your car, we will walk you through the steps involved to help make sure you have a smooth experience and get the best deal possible. Continue reading to begin!
Step 1: Determine Your Car's Value
Before heading to the dealership, it's essential to have an idea of your car's current market value. Several online tools and websites can help you estimate its worth, based on make, model, year, mileage, condition, and local demand. A few of these are listed below:
- Edmunds
- Kelley Blue Book®
- NerdWallet
Keep in mind that the actual trade-in value may differ slightly from the estimated amount.
Step 2: Prepare Your Car for Trade-In
Giving your car a thorough cleaning and addressing minor cosmetic issues can go a long way in enhancing its appeal and value. Wash and wax the exterior, clean the interior, and remove any personal belongings. Addressing dents and scratches or replacing worn-out tires can also increase your car's trade-in value.
Step 3: Gather the Necessary Documents
When trading in your car, be sure to have all the essential documents ready. These typically include the car's title, registration, maintenance records, owner's manual, and any warranties that may still be valid. Having these documents organized and readily available will streamline the trade-in process.
Step 4: Visit the Dealership
Bring your car, along with all the necessary documents, to the dealership for the trade-in assessment. At this time, your vehicle will be inspected thoroughly. The process includes an examination of its condition, mileage, and overall marketability.
Step 5: Negotiate the Trade-In Value
After the assessment, the dealership will present you with a trade-in offer based on their evaluation. This amount will be deducted from the price of the new vehicle you wish to purchase. It's essential to be open to negotiation and have a target value in mind.
Step 6: Explore Other Dealership Offers
Don't feel obligated to stick with one dealership's trade-in offer. It's a good idea to visit multiple dealerships and see what they are willing to offer you for your car. Comparing trade-in values from different dealerships can help you get the best deal possible.
Step 7: Apply the Trade-In Value
Once you've settled on a trade-in value that meets your expectations, it's time to finalize the paperwork. The trade-in value will be deducted from the price of the new vehicle, reducing the overall amount you need to finance or pay upfront.
We Accept Trade-Ins
Trading in your car is an excellent way to make upgrading to a new vehicle more affordable, while saving you the time and effort of selling it independently.
The team of experts here at Fletcher CDJR will guide you through every step, ensuring you get the best value for your trade-in. If you're considering a new car or want to explore our extensive selection of high-quality pre-owned vehicles, visit our dealership—serving Franklin, Greenwood, and New Whiteland, Indiana—today to take a few test drives.