When you’re ready to buy a new ride, it’s exciting to know you’re not heading to the car dealership empty-handed—you’ve got your own model to trade-in and put towards the next! Unfortunately, the money you receive for your old car may not be what you expected. Here are some of the factors that will determine how much or little your trade-in is worth.

4 Factors That Affect a Car’s Trade-In Value

1. Mileage

The easiest indicator of a car’s general condition isn’t really how long you’ve had it or when it was made, but how far you’ve driven it. The more miles you’ve spent in the driver’s seat, the more wear and tear your car will have experienced. That’s why the car dealership will head straight to the odometer when appraising your trade-in.

2. Make & Model

When you shop for a new car, you know which manufacturer and models will be the most expensive. Luckily, this part of the appraisal is one of the most objective, as you know what your car’s make and model deserve compared to others on the market. If you’re trading in a Mercedes-Benz® SUV, you can usually expect more than a KIA® sedan.

3. Condition

As the most subjective part of the appraisal, it’s worth it to seriously consider your car’s condition. Are the seats faded, ripped, or stained? In what condition is the exterior paint? In addition to assessing the cosmetic details, car dealerships will also consider the condition of the parts under the hood, as the need for their replacement will lower your payout.

4. Modifications

Over the years you spent driving your car, did you modify it to better fit your personality? While it might have made your commute more enjoyable, it won’t always pay off during a trade-in. For example, car dealerships know that vehicles with bold paint jobs, dark window tints, or embroidered seat covers will be harder to sell, as they appeal to a niche group of consumers. However, if you upgraded your car’s stereo system or opted for a moon-roof, you might have raised the trade-in value.

If you’re eager to trade in your current ride for a quality used car, reach out to Used Car Supermarket of Batavia, OH. Whether you envision yourself in an SUV or a compact car, this car dealership will show you attractive options within your budget. Feel free to ask their friendly staff about warranty information and financing opportunities when you stop by. To learn more about their trade-in program, visit the website, or call (513) 752-2277 today.