Should I Fix My Car Before Trading It In?

If you are thinking about a new ride to keep you moving through Oakland, you might be wondering: “Should I fix my car before trading it in?” While dealerships take factors like mileage, car features, market availability, and demand into account when estimating a trade-in value, condition is also a major consideration. You may not want to go over budget to improve a vehicle you’re getting rid of, but there are a few things you can do to improve the look and quality of your current car. Learn how with the experts at San Francisco Honda today!

Ways to Fix Your Car Before Trading It In

While you don’t have to invest in major fixes that might stretch your wallet thin, there are a number of common services you might want to consider to ensure your vehicle’s top value. Many of these can be done at home or with the help of the service professionals at San Francisco Honda where we offer many coupons and specials. Some of the ways you can improve the condition of your trade-in include the following:

• Hand wash and wax the exterior of your car.
• Clean out the inside of your vehicle, removing all garbage, dirt, belongings, etc.
• Replace windshield wipers and headlamps if needed.
• Clean foggy headlights of dirt and debris.
• Change or refill fluids, topping off your oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid and windshield-washer fluid.
• Use touch-up paint to buff out any scratches or dings.

Materials Needed to Trade-In a Car

Once you feel you’ve made all the right fixes for your vehicle, here is a list of items you’ll want to make sure you have ready when it’s time to trade-in your car for your next ride below:

• Driver’s license and social security number
• Bank information of your current loan
• Car title
• Proof of auto insurance
• Reports of any accidents
• Routine maintenance and repairs logs
• Original lien release

Trade-In Your Current Vehicle at San Francisco Honda Today

After seeing some of the ways you can fix or service your car to get the maximum trade-in value, get ready to enjoy your new ride on Oakland roads. Trade-in your car at San Francisco Honda and save even more on your next purchase. You can learn more about leasing vs. buying, or estimate your monthly loan or lease payment online at home. Contact us today for more details and to schedule your test drive at our dealership in San Francisco!