Should I Fix My Car Before Trade In?

Are you planning to trade in your current vehicle in the Grand Island area in order to purchase a new one? You may be wondering if you should fix your car before trading in to make sure that you’re getting the most trade in value. There isn’t a right or wrong answer here, but the finance and service teams at Midway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram can provide more information to help you maximize your car’s trade-in value. Minor fixes, like scratches or paint touch ups, and cleaning your car are beneficial and should be considered when you’re wondering if you should fix up your car before trading it in. You are, on the other hand, better off not fixing any major issues that could cost more than your trade-in value. Check out all of our trade-in tips and tricks, below! 

What Not to Fix on Your Car Before Trading

So, how much should you fix your car before trading it in? If you have a lot of expensive repairs to make on your Hastings ride, Midway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram suggests you don’t fix them before trading in: 

• Major repairs are expensive, and may significantly reduce the amount you’ll actually pocket from the trade-in.
• Thanks to their in-house service centers, dealerships can easily fix major issues at a lower cost than you would spend out of pocket. That’s how they are able to make a profit when buying and reselling used cars!
• Some dealerships might not do a detailed inspection of your car prior to finalizing the trade-in, so there’s no guarantee that you’ll get a higher trade-in offer after making repairs.

What to Fix on Your Car Before Trading

So you know that you shouldn’t fix everything, but what should you fix? Minor repairs can make your car more presentable and hopefully raise its trade-in value. If your car looks like it needs significant work, dealerships may decide to deduct the money they would spend on reconditioning, just in case there are major issues waiting to be uncovered. However, this is less likely if the car appears clean and well-maintained. Here are a few things you can do to help your car make a great first impression and maximize its trade in value:

• Vacuum the interior and clean the upholstery
• Wash the exterior
• Consider getting your car professionally detailed
• Fix minor scratches and dents 
• Check headlamps and replace bulbs if needed
• Check and top off automotive fluids (brake & transmission, oil, radiator, and windshield washer)

Simply doing this minimum makes a good impression, and the dealership you’re working with may notice and be encouraged that your car is in good condition. This is beneficial for you, and you also need to be realistic about the DIY repairs you can do. It’s best for you to weigh the pros and cons, and prices, before committing to fixing your car before you trade it in.

Find Out More About Trading Your Vehicle In Today with Midway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Lexington drivers who are questioning if they should fix up their car before trading it in can trust that the team at Midway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is here to help them get the most out of their trade in. Contact us today with any questions that you might still have, and utilize our car trade in value calculator so that you can get an idea of how much your vehicle’s trade in value is going to be.