Should I Fix My Car Before Trading In?

Most Des Moines drivers want to get the best possible trade-in value for their vehicles. This is why we are often asked, “Should I fix my car before trading in?” While there are a few simple ways to maximize your trade-in value, many times it’s not worth the investment to make major repairs prior to a trade. The automotive experts at DeYarman Ford Indianola dive into the details below. 

Fix My Car Before a Trade: What Not to Fix

Should I fix my car before trading in? In most cases, the answer is no, if your vehicle requires major repairs. While this may seem counterintuitive, there are several reasons why it may not be a worthwhile investment: 

• Major repairs can be quite costly. Those expenses take away from the profit you make on your trade. 
• Dealerships have the expertise and tools to easily fix major issues for a significantly lower cost. 
• Most vehicles are worth keeping “as is” once their repairs and maintenance costs reach or go above 10 percent of the car’s value. 

Fix My Car Before a Trade: What to Fix 

There are affordable ways to maximize your trade-in value that are often worth the investment. To get the most for your trade near Winterset, consider the following: 

• Clean out the interior: Throw out any garbage, remove your personal items, and clean the windows & carpets.
• Wash the car: This can be done at home or by a professional. 
• Fix small scratches: Minor paint scratches can quickly be repaired in your Norwalk garage. 
• Wax your car: After washing your car, a coat of wax can help it shine! 
• Check headlamps: Make sure they’re working properly. If any bulbs are burned out, replace them. 
• Check the fluids: Make sure your car has an adequate amount of all fluids, and top off any that are low. 

What Else Can I Do Before Trading In My Car?

Should I fix my car before trading in? While fixing your car before a trade-in might be a double-edged sword, there are ways to show the dealership you have properly cared for your car without paying a dime! 

• Provide the dealership with a complete and well-documented vehicle maintenance history.
• Bring everything that was included with the car when you visit the dealership, including the mats, keys, and winter tires.

Get a Competitive Trade-in Value at DeYarman Ford Indianola

Have you been researching whether or not to “fix my car before a trade?” Leave major repairs to the professionals at DeYarman Ford Indianola. We offer top-dollar for trades in Indianola, and we’ll get your vehicle in peak condition to sell on our used lot. Contact us today for more information.