Should I Fix My Car Before Trading In?

When there’s a small repair you’ve been meaning to get fixed, you may be wondering, “Should I fix my car before trading in?” While there’s no definitive answer, the finance and service team at Sawyer Chevrolet, Inc. has some advice to offer. There are some minor issues that you can correct to help your trade-in value, like correcting scratches, paint touch ups, and ensuring your car is clean. However, some major problems may not be worth the fix and may end up costing you more than your trade-in value. Learn more about the do’s and don’t of repairing your car before trading it in with Sawyer Chevrolet, Inc..

Fix My Car Before Trade: What Shouldn’t I Fix?

If you’re looking to upgrade your performance and comfort on trips around Hudson and Saugerties, it’s best that some major repairs should be left as is when trading in your vehicle. Here are some reasons why:

• Expensive and extensive repairs can actually lower how much you get from your trade-in value.
• Dealerships like Sawyer Chevrolet, Inc. have the tools and expertise to fix larger issues at a lower cost than you’ll spend on repairing them yourself. Dealerships are able to make a profit from buying, repairing, and reselling used cars.
• Some dealerships are happy to take your vehicle in any condition and may not perform a detailed inspection before offering a trade-in value. The cost of your repairs may not be deducted from your trade-in price.

Fix My Car Before Trade: What Should I Fix?

After learning what not to fix, what worthwhile improvements can you make to your ride before upgrading your Windham commutes? Though minor fixes can enhance your car’s appearance, dealerships may reduce the trade-in value to cover reconditioning costs in case any major issues arise. Here’s a list of changes you can make to enhance your car’s appearance before trading it in:

• Clean out the inside: Get rid of any garbage, remove personal items, and clean the windows & carpets.
• Wash the car: Take it to a professional or wash your car by hand to get rid of any marks and stains.
• Fix any scratches: There are simple tricks to repair minor scratches at home.
• Wax your car: Brighten the appearance of your car after washing by finishing with shining wax.
• Check headlamps: Ensure all your lights are in working order and replace these as needed.
• Check the fluids: Be sure to top off any fluids, including brake and transmission, oil, radiator, and windshield-washer fluid. It shows you’re keeping up with basic maintenance.

Doing what you can to improve your vehicle’s basic appearance shows the dealership that you’re taking care of your car. While it can be helpful to do what you can to improve your vehicle, it’s best to be realistic about your DIY skill. If a fix isn’t done properly, it can likely subtract from your trade-in value.

Other Tips Before Trading In Your Car

Some repairs may require a minor investment before a trade-in and seem like a double-edged sword, there are some cost-free steps you can take before stopping at a Windham-area dealership:

• Compile and bring your recent maintenance records to show a history of routine repairs
• Be sure you have everything that came with the car, including the mats, keys, and winter tires

Trade-In Your Vehicle with Sawyer Chevrolet, Inc.!

Now that you know the answer to the question, “Should I fix my car before trading in,” learn more about trading in your model with Sawyer Chevrolet, Inc.. If you still owe a balance on your auto loan, learn how to trade in a car that’s not paid off. Then, follow these simple steps when you’re ready to bring your car to a dealership.