Should I Fix My Car Before Trading In?

Most Woodway drivers want to get the most they can for their trade-in, which is entirely reasonable. If that’s true in your case, you might be tempted to make some repairs on your car before trading it in for a new car. But will it make a difference in the trade-in value? If you’re looking at your car, wondering, “Should I fix my car before trading it in?”, keep reading. We’ll talk about what repairs should be done before you take your car to a dealer, and which ones you can skip.

Should I Fix My Car Before Trading It In? Small Repairs

A lot of Temple drivers have thought, “If I can just make some minor improvements to fix my car before the trade, I’ll get a higher offer for it.” And that assumption can be correct when it comes to small, inexpensive repairs. Here are some things just about anyone can do to increase their chances of getting a higher offer:

• Detail the car on the outside.
• Detail the car on the inside, including upholstery. Make sure to get rid of any unpleasant odors.
• Use a paint pen or touch-up paint to fix minor scratches.
• Make sure all fluids are filled.
• Install new wiper blades.
• Replace bulbs that are burnt out.
• Fix cracks in the windshield.
• Clean headlights and taillights, especially if foggy.

Should I Fix My Car Before Trading It In? Big Repairs

What about major repairs? Is it worth it to fix your car if the repairs are costly? You’re probably better off using that money for a down payment. Expensive repairs usually do not increase a car’s trade-in value enough to make it worth it.

Should I Fix My Car Before I Trade It In? Body Damage

What about body damage like scratches and dents on the exterior? Is it worth it to fix that kind of damage? Again, it depends on whether the repairs would be major repairs or inexpensive ones. Expensive body repairs usually do not increase a car’s trade-in value enough to make it worth it, but there are some minor things you can do that will make your car more attractive to the typical Temple dealer and provide the best chance of getting a higher offer:

• Detail the car on the outside.
• Detail the car on the inside, including upholstery. Make sure to get rid of any unpleasant odors.
• Use a paint pen or touch-up paint to fix minor scratches.
• Fix cracks in the windshield.

We Want Your Car at Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram FIAT

Did you know that you can find out the value of your trade online? We make trading in your car as convenient as possible because we want to buy it. We’re motivated to give you a generous offer on your current car. So, bring it in, and let us take a look at it. In the meantime, you may want to check out our post on whether you can trade in a financed car. We’re just down the road from Gatesville. So, drop by or contact us today!