When it comes time to sell or trade in your vehicle, there are only positives. You get cash or a new car and someone else gets to make new memories in yours. When you trade in your car it can act as the down payment for your new ride. Whether you’re trading or simply selling, you want to get the most value for your previously used car, truck, van or SUV! Here are some tips to make sure you get the most for your vehicle:
1. Find out what your car is worth
The first step in negotiating the sale of your vehicle is to have a good idea of what your car’s value really is. There are a few sites available to help you get a realistic idea of what your vehicle is worth, but the two most often used are Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com) and Edmunds.com. Comparing values on multiple sites will give you a great starting point.
2. Fix any issues
All cars have little dings and mechanical issues that could use a little TLC; you’re going to see more value for your vehicle if you address them before selling it. It’s also a good idea to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration database to see if there are any recalls affecting your car. Recalled parts can be fixed free of charge, and the extra effort may up your vehicle’s value. Even repairing small cosmetic dings can make your vehicle worth more.
Kind of an old-school trick, but a good one, is to keep receipts for repairs, oil changes and maintenance. These can prove to the dealer or buyer that you took really good care of your vehicle.
3. Shine it up good (inside and out)
Get your car detailed. The nicer it looks, the more money it will appraise for. Think of detailing your car like staging a home before you sell it. Curb appeal applies to cars too. And don’t forget to remove all your personal items from the interior and the trunk. You want the potential buyer to take one look at your vehicle and see that it’s ready to go - no additional investment needed.
4. Find the spare key (and any other accessories)
We know it may sound small, but every penny counts and many buyers are willing to pay a little extra if you have the extra set of keys and all the owner’s manuals. So you might have to search around in that junk drawer, but finding that extra set of keys could pay off. Do you have Weather Tech floor mats?Headrests? A cargo net? First aid kit? Any other accessories you have will help raise the value of your vehicle. Every little bit counts.
5. Make an appointment
It sounds silly, but if you’re interested in getting an estimate at a dealership, making an appointment to have your vehicle appraised could net you some extra cash. By giving the dealership plenty of time to value your trade you are giving them time to find you more cash.
So if you’re ready to sell your previously loved vehicle, consider a free vehicle appraisal at the Folsom Auto Mall. Get your car appraised for free and browse our new or pre-owned vehicles including: Ford, Toyota, Kia, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Buick, GMC, Hyundai, Chevrolet and Nissan.