Should I Fix My Car Before Trading In?

Wondering if you should trade in your vehicle as-is or fix it up first? Many Dallas drivers are asking themselves “Should I fix my car before getting a trade-in value?” Generally, while some changes can be a good idea, it may be wise to avoid major fixes like a new transmission or engine, as you probably won’t recoup those costs. Then again, you may wish to schedule service with us for diagnostics just to be sure. 

Should I Fix My Car Before a Trade?: What Not To Fix

These repairs are generally better avoided before a trade-in as you may wind up losing more than you gain — unless of course, you plan to keep your vehicle:

• Large or financially costly repairs like rebuilding or replacing a transmission, replacing a cooling system, and more, are best avoided.
• Fixing major issues for minor dollars when you trade-in your vehicle as-is with larger issues is part of how dealerships can profit from buying and reselling used cars! As such, you likely won’t be rewarded monetarily for making a big fix before trading in, and you may be better off cutting your losses. 
• Depending on where you trade-in your car in Garland or Richardson, it may not be thoroughly inspected.

Should I Fix My Car Before a Trade?: What to Fix 

Now you have a better idea of what not to fix. But what should you fix in your Mesquite vehicle? Minor issues or anything that makes your car more presentable can be hopeful to perform. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of things to fix in your car before a trade-in:

• Clean your vehicle of trash and personal effects. Vacuum and steam the upholstery and carpeting, and the glass. 
• Get rid of unseemly odors by using a cheap ozone generator, odor bomb, or deodorizer. 
• Wash the car or take it to a car wash in Dallas.
• Fix any scratches you can or have the vehicle detailed if the paint is in rough shape.
• Wax the vehicle. 
• Check the headlights and taillights and replace them if needed.
• Check the fluids (i.e. brake & transmission), oil, radiator, and windshield-washer- make sure they’re at a good level. Get fluid changes if you haven’t stayed on top of regular maintenance.

Pro Tip: Be realistic with yourself and consider whether or not you’re capable of completing DIY minor repairs. Remember, we’re always here to help at the Rusty Wallis Honda service center. 

What Else Can I Do Before Trading In My Car?

There are plenty of free things you can do before trading in your vehicle to increase your chances of getting paid top dollar for it. Here are just some worth noting:

• Take everything that came with the car with you when visit us, including all original floor mats, keys, and winter tires
• Complete or at least recent maintenance records neatly put together

Trade-In Your Car at Rusty Wallis Honda Now! 

Ready to see how much your current car is worth around Rockwall? We’re happy to offer answers! Value your trade online now! Looking for an easier way to get your next car? Leased vehicles don’t require trading in or much prep work, just an easy lease return process!