How to Maximize Your Used Car’s Trade-In Value

Ready to swap out your current vehicle and refresh your ride? Trade in and trade up today at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM! As locals’ trusted car dealership in Manning, we are proud to serve customers in Florence, SC, Lake City, SC and Sumter, SC!

Committed to providing the very best used car selection, we are always looking to buy pre-owned vehicles – any make, model or condition. Help us stock our lot and trade in today! Here’s what you need to know about getting the most for your trade:

A Clean Car Makes a Good First Impression 

Because nothing replaces a first impression, it’s important to make sure your car appears clean and in great condition. Stage your vehicle as if it were brand new, performing a thorough cleaning inside and out. Be sure to do the following before your car’s valuation at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM:

• Vacuum the interior.
• Wipe down/recondition all inside surfaces.
• Make sure everything works properly, such as air conditioning, headlights, etc.
• Wash the exterior with a high-quality car soap.
• Give the wheels a good scrub.
• Use an auto glass cleaner to remove streaks and residue from windows.
• Consider scratch and dent removal services, if necessary.

Remember that a clean vehicle means less work for our Service Center – and more money in your pocket!

Show Proof of Regular Vehicle Maintenance 

Now that your used vehicle looks its best, it’s time to prove that you have stayed up to date with necessary maintenance. Records from routine service appointments help increase your used car’s trade-in value, so be sure to bring evidence of the following:

• Routine maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations, etc.)
• Repairs (dent/scratch removal, etc.)
• Parts purchased (new tires, new battery, etc.)

Determine Your Car’s Value

The next step involves some research to assess how much your used car is worth. Armed with this knowledge, you will be in a better position to negotiate on price. There are plenty of easy-to-use pricing guides online, such as Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds and NerdWallet. Simply enter the following to determine a reasonable price for your ride:

• Make & model
• Year
• Mileage
• Condition 
• Zip code

Note: If purchasing from an individual instead of a dealership, we recommend that car buyers use the Kelley Blue Book Private Party Value.

Do Your Research for the Best Deal

Not every car dealership in Manning provides the kind of honest service you’ll find at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM. Other dealers may offer an unfair car price, one that is far outside Kelley Blue Book trade-in market range. That’s why you should never settle for the first deal you are offered! 

While online pricing tools are convenient, a physical inspection is still the best way to get an accurate car trade-in value. Bring the following to your appraisal:

• Vehicle’s title
• Current vehicle registration
• Auto loan payoff and account info (if you have a current loan)
• All vehicle keys
• Your driver’s license

Trade In Your Used Car Today in Manning!

Now that you’ve done all you can to maximize your used car’s value, it’s time to trade! Get an appraisal quote here at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, your trusted Manning dealership, serving the Florence, Lake City and Sumter areas! Or use our handy online trade-in appraisal tool.

Our team will not only offer top dollar for your used car, but help you save on a new one! Check out our huge selection of cars, trucks and SUVs, like the new, third-row 2021 Grand Cherokee L – in stock now at your Jeep dealership in Manning!

Come see us today for a test drive!

Posted in Manning Chrysler Dealer, Manning Chrysler Service, Manning Used Cars | Comments Off on How to Maximize Your Used Car’s Trade-In Value