Trade-In

A trade-in is when a customer trades in their current vehicle to a dealership as part of the process of purchasing or leasing a new vehicle. The dealership will typically offer a certain amount of money or credit in exchange for the customer’s current vehicle, which can then be used to reduce the overall cost of the new vehicle, offset the down payment, or cover the cost of taxes and fees.

The value of the trade-in is typically based on the make, model, year, condition, and mileage of the current vehicle, as well as the current market value of similar vehicles.

Having a trade-in can be an advantageous option for customers who are looking to purchase a new vehicle, as it can reduce the overall cost of the new vehicle, reduce the amount of money that must be paid upfront, or eliminate the need to sell the current vehicle separately.

How does a trade-in works?

A trade-in works as follows:
  • Vehicle evaluation: The dealership will inspect the customer’s current vehicle to determine its value. This evaluation takes into account the make, model, year, condition, and mileage of the vehicle, as well as the current market value of similar vehicles.
  • Negotiation: The customer and the dealership will negotiate the value of the trade-in vehicle. The customer may be able to negotiate a higher value for their trade-in if they have a desirable make and model, or if they have maintained the vehicle well.
  • Application of trade-in value: Once the value of the trade-in has been agreed upon, the customer can use this value to reduce the overall cost of the new vehicle, offset the down payment, or cover the cost of taxes and fees.
  • Trade-in paperwork: The customer and the dealership will complete the necessary paperwork to transfer ownership of the trade-in vehicle to the dealership. The customer will receive a trade-in allowance or credit that can be applied towards the purchase or lease of the new vehicle.

How do you trade in a car that is not paid off?

If you are still making payments on your current vehicle, you can still trade it in for a new vehicle. However, the process can be a bit more complicated. Here’s what you need to know:
  1. Determine the value of your current vehicle: This will give you an idea of what you can expect to receive for your trade-in. You can use online resources such as Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to estimate the value of your vehicle.
  2. Calculate your payoff amount: Your payoff amount is the amount you still owe on your current vehicle loan. You can contact your lender or use an online loan calculator to find out what your payoff amount is.
  3. Negotiate with the dealership: When you trade in a vehicle that is not paid off, the dealership will typically pay off your existing loan and apply any remaining value towards the purchase of a new vehicle. You can negotiate the trade-in value of your vehicle and the amount that will be applied towards the new vehicle.
  4. Check with your lender: Before finalizing the trade-in, it’s important to check with your lender to make sure that the trade-in process is allowed under the terms of your loan. Some lenders may require that you pay off your loan in full before trading in the vehicle.
  5. Review the trade-in agreement: Make sure you understand the terms of the trade-in agreement, including the trade-in value of your current vehicle, the amount that will be applied towards the purchase of the new vehicle, and any restrictions or limitations.