How Do Dealerships Value My Trade?

How Do Dealerships Value My Trade?


Looking to trade in your car before you buy that new ride you want to drive around Tampa, Citrus Park, and Lutz, FL? To make sure you get the best deal possible for your trade-in, you’ll first want to understand how dealerships value your trade. How exactly does a dealership come up with the value they end up offering you for your trade-in? We will go through what affects your car’s value below, so you can make sure your car is ready to receive a fair offer when you stop by to trade it in here at Tampa Honda!


What Determines My Car’s Trade-in Value?

What Determines My Car’s Trade-in Value?

How do dealerships value your trade-in? It starts with getting a full inspection of your vehicle, which lets them see its overall condition. They test features, get a look under the hood, and examine the interior and exterior of your vehicle before offering you a value for your trade-in. The overall condition of a car is a big factor in determining its value. Other key aspects that determine a car’s value include:

  • Model
  • Model year
  • Trim level
  • Mileage

With all of that information and after an inspection of your vehicle, a dealership will then be able to give you a firm offer for your trade-in.


What Determines My Car’s Trade-in Value?

Can I Improve My Car’s Trade-in Value?

Yes, you can actually work to boost your car’s trade-in value, and it won’t take long for you to do so. While you obviously aren’t able to change the mileage of the car or which trim level you own, the one aspect you can change is the condition of your car. By doing these few simple tasks first, you can improve its trade-in value, which may get you an even better offer.

  • Clean Your Car: Wash the exterior and clean the interior thoroughly, so your car is looking its best.
  • Fix Any Issues: Whether there is a mechanical problem or you have a dent on the bumper, fixing any issues with the car will help increase its trade-in value.
  • Complete Maintenance Services: Whether it is time to get an oil change or the battery is due for a replacement, making sure your car is updated with all the routine services it needs can also help boost its value when you come by to trade it in.

What Determines My Car’s Trade-in Value?

Estimate Your Car’s Trade-in Value

How do you know you are getting a fair offer for your trade-in when at the dealership? The process is transparent, since you can first get a trusted estimation of your car’s worth. In fact, on our website, you can use our Value Your Trade tool and in minutes have a good sense of what you can earn by trading in your car. All you’ll need to do is provide some information, like the exact model year and trim level you drive, as well as its mileage and current condition, and you’ll be able to see what you might be able to earn by trading in your car!


Ready to Trade in Your Car at Tampa Honda?

Now that you know how dealerships value your trade and how you can potentially boost its value, you are ready to earn a fair offer for your trade-in! Contact us at Tampa Honda to learn how you can trade in your car with us. Stop by to get a firm offer and great value on the new car you’d like to take out on the roads of Tampa, Citrus Park, and Lutz, Florida!