How to Get a Maximum Trade in Value for a Car
- 1). Go to the Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds and NADAGuides websites to determine the maximum trade-in value for your car. All three websites show a different value, but you can use the median number to determine a fair value. Be careful to choose your vehicle's correct year, make, model, level and options for an accurate value.
- 2). Choose to view the trade-in value for your car. Do not look at retail value, trade values have nothing to do with the dealer's asking price, which he rarely gets for a used-vehicle sale. Choose the correct condition for your car. This option can change the vehicle's value by thousands, so read the explanations of vehicle ratings and choose the most appropriate.
- 3). Print out copies of your value from all three websites, just in case you need them at the dealership. Clean your car's interior and exterior. Keep in mind you are offering a car for sale (the dealer is buying it to resell), so cleaning it before showing it to a dealership is likely to warrant you a better value.
- 4). Shop for your new car and negotiate on price accordingly, keeping your trade-in out of the equation. Tell your salesman you might sell your current vehicle on your own or may have an interested private buyer to avoid further trade questions. Focus on your new vehicle price before stating that you will be trading your car in.
- 5). Come to a fair number with your salesman for the vehicle you plan to purchase. Let your salesman know that trading your vehicle in would be easier for you, if you can reach a fair number. Give your keys to your salesman so he can appraise your vehicle.
- 6). Wait for the dealer's first offer, which is not often the highest. If your dealer meets or exceeds your expectations, take the offer. If not, offer your appraisal printouts from the three appraisal resources you used and ask why you are receiving less than the accurate trade amount.
- 7). Tell your salesman that you would like to make a deal but want the best value for your trade-in vehicle. Because you took the time to research the correct value using the vehicle's condition and have proof of it, there is no reason you should not get the vehicle's maximum trade value.
- 8). Agree on a number or walk away. Unless your salesman can give you a valid reason on why your vehicle is not worthy of the suggested appraisal value, such as necessary repairs, you should consider moving on to another dealership.
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