Many people want to upgrade their vehicles to enjoy the convenience and safety of updated models. Fortunately, dealerships that accept trade-in cars allow you to sell your current vehicle while purchasing a new ride. Here’s some advice on how to make a profitable exchange.

How to Trade In a Vehicle

1. Assess the Value

Decide on a ballpark figure for the worth of your car based on the vehicle model, year, and condition to ensure you’re ready to choose a trade-in car of similar value. There are many websites where users can input information about the current car and learn it’s estimated value, such as CARFAX and Kelley Blue Book.  

2. Clean the Interior & Exterior 

Improve the trade-in value of your vehicle by getting it professionally detailed inside and out. Cleaners will vacuum the interior, steam clean the upholstery, and wipe down solid surfaces.

They’ll also wash and wax the car body, windows, and tires to make the vehicle look as new as possible. You may also benefit from heading to a mechanic to address small nicks in the paint and dings in the body. Dealerships are more likely to purchase or trade-in cars that are more visually appealing, as they sell faster.

3. Start Shopping

Make a list of must-have vehicle features like four-wheel drive, excellent gas efficiency, and low mileage to narrow down the search. Look into the ownership history of the models you’re most interested in test driving. Choose options that have been regularly maintained with frequent oil changes and wheel alignments. Cars that have received the proper maintenance tend to last longer and require less mechanical repairs after purchase.

Dealerships that accept trade-in cars update their online inventories frequently. Use this information so you can call the company ahead of time and ensure the vehicles you want to test drive are available before going to the location.

4. Make the Trade

Once you find a model you want, discuss the pricing with the trade-in agent. Some owners want a car that’s worth the same value as their current ride, while others are willing to pay extra money or sign up for financing. Discuss the prices of your car and the one you want and put each in writing. Then, read and sign the contracts to trade ownership of your vehicle and officially purchase the new one.

Vehicle owners in Dalton and the North Georgia area who are interested in trade-in cars should stop by Paniagua Auto Mall. Their honest team finds the right high-quality vehicle for every customer. They pride themselves on excellent customer service and will help buyers with financing that allows you to purchase the vehicle you want. Call (706) 529-1919 for more information or visit their website to learn about the dealership.