Should I Fix My Car Before Trading It In?

Trying to make some room in your garage for a new Honda? Like every other Memphis car-buyer, you want to get as high of an offer as possible on your trade-in vehicle. However, if your current car is in need of a few repairs, you may wonder, “Should I fix my car before trading it in?” Typically, the answer can be determined based on the cost of the repairs. Learn more with the Victory Honda of Jackson finance center in the guide below! We’ll help you determine when you should or shouldn’t fix your vehicle before trading it in.

How is My Trade-in Car’s Value Calculated?

Dealerships in the Dyersburg area will look at several different factors when they value your trade-in car:

• Vehicle make and model
• Age
• Mileage
• Appearance
• Mechanical condition
• Maintenance records
• Vehicle history report
• Local market

Mechanical problems and minor exterior damage might decrease the value of your vehicle, but they aren’t the only factors that matter to a dealership.

When Should You Fix Your Trade-in Car?

Generally, you shouldn’t do anything more than a thorough spruce-up of your vehicle when you trade it in. The goal should be to spend as little as possible while also adding a little value—things like filling in scratches or pulling out dents can upgrade your car’s appearance with little effort and little money spent. Anything beyond these inexpensive repairs likely isn’t worth it because the likelihood of getting a return on your investment is too low.

What are Some Low-Cost Fixes?

Before trading in your vehicle in the Brownsville area, here are some examples of quick and affordable fixes that can help you earn more from your trade-in:

• Do a light detailing: wash the exterior, vacuum the interior, and spot clean the upholstery
• Use a paint pen that matches your car’s exterior to fill in surface scratches
• Top off any fluids that you have on hand at home (wiper fluid, engine oil, etc.)
• Replace wiper blades
• Replace burned out bulbs
• Repair cracks in the windshield if your insurance covers it
• Buff out the headlights and/or taillights if they’re foggy

Get a Competitive Trade-in Offer at Victory Honda of Jackson!

Ready to trade in your car? Visit Victory Honda of Jackson to receive a competitive same-day offer! You can sell your car to us for cash or apply the trade-in value directly to your next purchase if you intend to buy a new Honda with us. With any questions about our trade-in process, please contact us and we’ll be happy to tell you more.