How to Trade in a Car

Finding Out the Trade-in Value

Before you jump into trading in your car, you’ll want to find out the current value. Most likely, you have no idea how much your car is worth, and we have just the form to use. The Kelley Blue Book (KBB) Instant Trade Offer will reveal the estimated value of your car. Once you’ve filled it out, you’ll have about a week to redeem the offer.

What Information do You Need?

You’ll discover that the KBB Instant Trade Offer form takes only a few moments of your time. It will be worth it as long as you have all the information needed to complete it. And all you have to do is look at your car.

The form accepts the license plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and make and model. Enter that information, and then you can go into detail about your car and its various features. Remember to give some information about its condition to get the most accurate estimate.

---

How to Prepare Your Car

Whether you’re satisfied with the estimated market value or not, why not see what you can do to boost the value?

Even the simple act of cleaning your car and removing any trash builds up the amount. So, get to work! Take out food wrappers, empty bottles, and out-of-ink pens. Start wiping down the dashboard, washing the windows and windshield, and vacuuming out the car. If you prefer, go to your local car wash or pay to have it detailed.

Make sure that you clear out your car of all the personal items, too, like gloves, blankets, lawn chairs, and more. If you own a newer car and it carries touchscreen devices, erase all the personal information to protect your privacy and anyone else’s information you’ve stored.

---

Should You Schedule Service?

Depending on the condition of your car, you may consider bringing it in for service at our dealership. Minor items like replacing windshield wiper blades or performing a quick oil change will ensure your car is seen in its best light. A multi-point inspection can detect any outstanding issues that you may want to take care of.

If you’re prone to tinkering with your car, you may want to take care of replacing bulbs or rotating the tires yourself. You don’t have to completely renovate the car, but a cleaning and some minor repairs will help boost the value.

Don’t Forget to Bring

When the trade-in day comes, you’ll want to remember to bring some important items. Make sure that you have your driver’s license, social security card, and proof of auto insurance. Tuck in all sets of keys, the car title, and registration. If you’re bringing in a down payment, take it along.