How Do Dealers Value My Trade? Bloomington IN | Andy Mohr Hyundai

Valuing Your Trade: The Basics

Whenever a car comes onto a dealer’s lot, there are several aspects that are taken into account. The type of car you have is chief among the variables in determining its value. This is broken down into three main categories:

• Make
• Model
• Year

The vehicle manufacturer is an important distinction, as well as the particular model or trim from its lineup. These are key components in valuing the vehicle. If the model is particularly rare or sought after, it will add to its value. The model year determines the age of the car. Typically, newer model years have more value than older ones.

In addition to these three pieces of info, mileage plays a major role in determining your car’s value. The fewer miles logged on the odometer, the more your car will be appraised for. It shows that it hasn’t been used too often and has a lot of life left in it.

Additional Value Components

The previous things we mentioned are innate to your car; there’s nothing you can do to change them. However, there’s more that factors into your car’s value that you can work with.

Proper maintenance will benefit a car further down the line and making sure your ride is up to date on routine service will also increase a car’s value. Staying on top of your manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule will give you a healthy ride with an increased value.

If you have a record of each service provided on your vehicle, that will increase its value as well. Proper documentation provides an in-depth look at your car’s history, giving the buyer peace of mind and giving your vehicle a boost in value.

Overall condition and appearance can earn you more money on your appraisal as well. This goes for both the exterior and interior. If you get your car detailed by a professional, it will have that like-new look that people want. If you spruce up your car, you’ll be rewarded in the form of increased value.