Should I Fix My Car Before Trading In?

Service light on dashboard

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle but looking to trade-in your current one, you might be wondering, “Should I fix my car before trading in?” or “What should I do to fix my car before a trade?” Any Toledo driver certainly can fix up their vehicle, however, our finance team recommends repairing minor changes. Any major repairs could cost more money than your trade-in value is worth. Read on to answer the question of, “Should I fix my car before trading in?” with Exceptional Motorcar in Defiance, then check out our pre-owned vehicle specials

Fix My Car Before Trade: What to Avoid Fixing

As you begin to search for your next ride near Findlay, we recommend avoiding any major repairs before trading in your vehicle for these main reasons: 

  • Any major repair can be expensive and lower the amount of money you can actually get after your trade-in value is determined.
  • Local Findlay service centers can repair any major issues faster and at a lower cost. Dealerships are able to increase their profit when they buy and resell your used vehicle! 
  • Dealerships do not always do a detailed inspection before finalizing your trade-in value, so you could actually get more money for your vehicle if they choose to deduct a significant amount of costs from the your trade-in value price.

Fix My Car Before Trade: What You Should Fix 

So the question still remains, “Should I fix my car before trading in?” If you choose to fix it, we recommend only fixing minor issues that can increase your trade-in value to make your vehicle more presentable. Here are several things you can choose to repair in your vehicle’s appearance to help your trade in value: 

  • Clean out the inside
  • Wash the car
  • Fix any scratches
  • Wax your car
  • Check headlamps
  • Check the fluids (brake & transmission), oil, radiator, and windshield-washer

Get Your Trade-In Value at Exceptional Motorcar! 

Now that we have answered your question, “Should I fix my car before trading in?” Contact us when you’re ready to start the trade process! Utilize our monthly calculator to help plan your budget. 

 

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