Should I Fix My Car Before Trading It In?

Let’s say you’re interested in upgrading your old car, but it could use a little work before it’s showroom ready. Should I fix my car before trading it in or leave it as-is? The answer depends on what your car needs. Minor issues are usually worth fixing, while costly repairs are not. Find out how repairs impact your trade-in value, and get more car-buying tips at South Dade Kia of Miami today.

Fix My Car Before Trade: What Not To Fix

Major repairs are generally not worth the price and effort to fix at this point. There are a few reasons why we advise against making big repairs before your trade-in appointment:

• Repairs are expensive, and you might not recoup the cost in trade-in value.
• Dealerships can fix major problems at a much cheaper price because they can access a service center. That’s how they can profit off buying and selling used models.
• Some dealerships will perform a detailed inspection of your car, but some won’t. There’s a chance that they might not even bother to deduct the cost of these repairs from your trade-in price. 

Fix My Car Before Trade: What to Fix 

Minor repairs, like light scratches or broken windshield wipers, are usually inexpensive to fix and can increase your trade-in value. These small fixes can make your car more presentable and more appealing to buyers, so consider doing the following:

• Clean Interior: Clean out any garbage or personal items. Vacuum and treat the carpets. Wash the windows.
• Wash Exterior: Wash the exterior of your car by hand, at a carwash, or schedule a detail. Finish with a wax for a high-gloss finish.
• Fix Scratches: Pick up some car paint at our parts department and watch those surface scratches disappear.
• Fix Bulbs: Check all of your lights to make sure they’re working properly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.
• Check Fluids: Check motor oil, brake, transmission, radiator, and windshield washer fluid. This shows the buyer that you’ve kept up with your basic maintenance.

What Else Can I Do Before Trading In My Car?

Beyond fixing your vehicle, there are plenty of free things that you can do to put your best foot forward at the dealership. So before you visit from Miami or Kendall, here are some simple things you can do:

• Documentation: Gather your maintenance records or your most recent maintenance report. This shows that your car is in great condition.
• Items: Make sure that you have everything that you need to trade in the car. This includes extra keys, the owner’s manual, extra tires, mats, etc.

Trade-In Your Car at South Dade Kia of Miami Today! 

So, should I fix my car before trading it in? We’ve gone through some of the pros and cons of fixing your car before the trade, but if you have any questions, contact us anytime. We’d be happy to help. And if you’re ready for your trade-in, visit us in Miami! We’re only a short drive from Pinecrest, and we’ll ensure you get the best trade-in value possible!