Car dealerships are often quick to calculate the price you’ll get for your family’s old minivan or your grandmother’s barely-used sedan; however, what exactly are the features of a used vehicle that play the biggest roles in their worth? While each dealership has its own philosophy, you can get an idea of what experts will say by taking into account the following details.

A Guide to the Factors Utilized to Estimate the Trade-In Value of Used Cars

1. Make & Model

There’s no denying the fact that some car makes sell for a higher price than others. If you have a high-end vehicle, it’ll likely be worth more than a regular sedan in a similar condition. Even within the same make, more popular car models will have a higher trade-in value, as dealers know that high demand means quick sales.

2. Age

In addition to simply having more wear and tear due to more use, older cars will have outdated features. Newer cars will fetch a higher price, as people want to know they can get more years out of them after making the purchase.

3. Condition

Even if your car is a popular model that came out only a few years ago, it won’t be worth as much if the body is bent out of shape or the engine is torn up. Buyers want a car that is clean and has an accident-free history.

4. Mileage

When you have two cars with similar styles, ages, and conditions, the vehicle with fewer miles on it will be worth more. Mileage is an excellent indicator of how much life a car has left before the engine begins to break down. 

5. Modifications

While the modifications added to a car might be beloved by the owner who put them there, customization preferences aren’t universal. A car with oversized wheels or a racing stripe painted down the side won’t always be easy to sell, which can bring down its trade-in value.

If you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, trading in your current one will put money in your pocket. Located in La Fayette, GA, and serving North Georgia and Chattanooga, Jackson Chevrolet Buick GMC offers a wide selection of new and certified pre-owned vehicles, so you will find your perfect match. Visit their website to browse their inventory and fill out a trade-in form, and call (888) 552-0958 to speak to a team member. For their latest updates, follow them on Facebook and Twitter.