How to Trade In a Car

If it’s time for a new Chevrolet car, truck or SUV, figuring out how to trade in a car can seem like a daunting and time-consuming task. However, with our team at Leson Chevrolet Company, Inc., we’ve got you covered with the steps for how to trade in your car, so you can get back on New Orleans streets in the new Chevy model you’ve had your eye on. If you have any questions about your trade-in, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

Steps for How to Trade In Your Car

Whether you’ve got your eye on another model, or your looking to make space in your Metairie driveway, trading in a vehicle is a relatively painless process Here’s a quick look at the essential steps in the process: 

1. Get an estimate of your car’s trade-in value.
2. Get an in-person appraisal with an expert.
3. Negotiate and accept your offer.
4. After you sign any remaining paperwork, you’ll be able to drive off with a new or used model that you love!

Step 1: Getting an Estimated Trade-In Value

Before stopping into a Belle Chasse-area dealership, it’s a good idea to get an idea of the car’s current value. There are many tools available that help estimate the value of the car like Kelley Blue Book® Value or Edmunds True Market Value®. Even at Leson Chevrolet Company, Inc., we have a trade-in value estimator, so when it’s time to talk to a team member, you know exactly what to expect. 

The tools above estimate the vehicle’s value based on factors such as the vehicle’s make, model, and year, as well as its current condition and maintenance history.

Another useful tip is to check the price that other drivers in your area sold their model for. This allows you to get an idea of the overall value, and you’re prepared when it’s time for negotiation. 

Step 2: Getting an Appraisal

This next step is what seems to give drivers the most worry when learning how to trade in a car. With the in-person inspection, there is the possibility that the final offer may differ from the estimate you’ve found online. One way to beat the differences between the estimate and appraisal is to be as honest and detailed as possible when evaluating your vehicle during the estimation. 

Sometimes, the dealership can decide they can’t resell the car you’re trading in. Another way to get the most out of your trade-in is to address any maintenance or aesthetic issues beforehand and stay on top of your routine maintenance. 

Step 3: Negotiating or Accepting the Offer

If you’re offered a lower amount than expected at your in-person appraisal, here is where your careful research comes in handy. Having the sold price of similar models, or multiple appraisals with better offers put you in a better negotiating position that you can use to your advantage. 

Is the car you’re trying to trade in financed? Some car buyers won’t accept a trade-in if there’s an outstanding balance on the loan. Take a look at our guide for trading in a financed car to explore your other options. Wondering if you can return a leased car early? We can help there too!

Once you and the dealer have settled on an offer, you can use the money towards a new vehicle, or you have the option to walk out with cash in your wallet! If you’re ready for your next purchase, be sure to learn about what is a good interest rate on a car loan or contact Leson Chevrolet Company, Inc. for other financing options. 

Explore Financing Options with Leson Chevrolet Company, Inc.! 

Now that you have a better idea of how to trade in your car, visit the team at Leson Chevrolet Company, Inc. to discuss your trade-in! If you have any questions about the car buying process, the knowledgeable team in our finance center is here to help. Another guide that may be helpful is our guide on where the best place to get a car loan is.