How to Trade in a Car

If the time has finally come and you’re ready to get behind the wheel of your next car in Scottsdale or Arrowhead, you might be asking how to trade in a car. Whether you’re interested in financing or leasing, you can count on Land Rover North Scottsdale to walk you through the process with nothing but the most forthright transparency. We’ve got all the facts on how to trade in your car, so you can upgrade with confidence.

How To Trade In Your Car: a Step by Step

There are three major steps to trading in your car in Phoenix, and if you have any questions, you can count on our dedicated professionals to get you the right answer quickly. Here’s the three step process for how to trade in a car:

1. Get an estimate of your car’s trade-in value.
2. Get an in-person appraisal with an automotive expert.
3. Start the negotiating process, then finally accept your offer.

With a little bit of paperwork, you’ll be driving away in your next car, whether it’s new or used. You can even start the purchasing process online by shopping our virtual showroom from the comfort of your home.

Step 1: Get Your Trade-In Car’s Value

We suggest that before you get your appraisal, you should get a few estimates with tools like Kelley Blue Book® Value or Edmunds True Market Value®. We also offer convenient online valuation directly on our website! 

Your car will be valued based on its make, model, year, and condition, and since we cross-reference the information you give us with data from CARFAX, you can be sure that our estimate is accurate.

Step 2: Get an Appraisal

You’ll come in for an in-person inspection next. If this is your first time trading in a car, you might be scared by the possibility of your offer being different from your estimate. You can reduce this variance significantly by doing the due diligence beforehand and being forthright with your appraiser during the estimation process. 

In certain cases, the dealership may choose to not buy your car because it can’t be resold–but these instances are few and far between. You can increase the chance of selling your car by keeping your car maintained according to the schedule laid out in your owner’s manual.

Step 3: Negotiate or Accept a Trade-In Offer

Now, it’s time to negotiate. If you think you could get more money for your trade-in based on the research you’ve done ahead of time, make your case. The best way to get more value for your trade is to show evidence of several appraisals that say the same thing in regards to your car’s true value. 

Some buyers won’t let you trade in a car with an outstanding loan, but others will allow you to roll over the remaining balance onto a new loan. If the offer is accepted, you’ll have the option to apply your trade toward your next car or walk out, cash in hand.

Land Rover North Scottsdale: Friendly Finance Experts

If it’s time to trade, you know who to turn to. We have finance experts who can answer any questions you may have, no matter where you’re at in the process. We have a great selection of cars, meaning if you’re looking for a new or new-to-you one, we’ve got you covered. Are you ready to start looking? Contact us to learn more.