Purchasing a new car is exciting, but many people worry about the cost of the loan or upgrades. Even if your used car is several years old, you can receive a fair price if it’s in excellent condition. A few attributes of your trade-in will impact the price positively more than others, including the ones below.

How to Value Your Used Car Before Selling

1. Mileage

Mileage is a significant factor in determining the trade-in value for a used car because higher mileage could indicate issues with the engine or other components. Even if you maintain the vehicle thoroughly, high mileage on any vehicle can signify that it’s closer to breaking down, since internal parts have a shelf life that the odometer determines.

2. Make & Model

There isn’t a specific make or model that will fetch more on average, but a Ford® vehicle is more likely to receive a higher trade-in value at a Ford dealership. Brands with easy to find parts tend to do better, so domestic used cars will fetch more money, regardless of the dealership. Popular models will also garner high value, but a specific price depends on the year of the make and the vehicle economy. 

3. Condition

Well maintained used cars are more valuable because fewer repairs are necessary for it to function or be aesthetically pleasing. Faded paint or scratches will contribute to lower offers, regardless of if the interior is pristine.

4. Modifications

Personalizing your vehicle can hurt the value, as rear spoilers and oversized wheels aren’t attractive to other buyers. Most buyers are wary of alterations because the work could be poor. If the paint job is bizarre or an aggressive pattern, like neon pink or zebras stripes, it is challenging to sell. Instead, opt for mainstream colors like blue, white, or black. 

If you’re looking to trade your used car to put money into a new one, visit Jack Kain Ford Inc., in Versailles, KY. This family-owned dealership emphasizes honesty and integrity. They offer new, used, and certified used vehicles in a selection of SUVs, trucks, sedans, hatchbacks, and vans. With regional incentives and in-house financing, you’ll find great deals on their Fords. Visit the website to view their inventory, or call (888) 685-1211 to speak with a representative.