DIY Network

Auto Trade-In Tips: Helpful Websites From "Auto Primer" episode DAPR-105

When it's time to trade your vehicle, as is the case with this 1991 Isuzu Trooper, there are a few simple things you can do to in order to enhance your trade-in value.

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DIY's Auto Primer is an introductory course on the basics of keeping your car safe and trouble-free. In this episode, host Leilani Munter helps viewers get the most from their car on trade-in day. From cleaning and simple repairs that make a big difference, to knowing your car's true value, Auto Primer gives viewers the knowledge to maximize their trade-in allowance. Also included: tips on what to look for in new car safety features.

In this first segment of episode 105, Leilani discusses how to use the internet for help with your trade-in.

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When shopping for a new car, you'll likely be wanting to trade in your old vehicle to reduce the overall cost of your purchase. Don't be surprised if the amount the dealer is willing to allow as trade-in for your vehicle is less than you'd expect to sell it for.

Before you make a final purchase decision, you owe it to yourself to do a little research to find out at least the standard "blue book" prices for what your old vehicle is worth. You may decide that you'll come out better financially by selling your old car to an individual.

Figure A

There are a number of websites that are devoted specifically to collecting and publishing used-car values for nearly all makes and models as well as related information. One of the best known is edmunds.com.

The Used Car section of this site features an easy-to-use interface that allows you to enter information on your car to get a calculated market-value appraisal (figure A).

Simply follow the prompts to fill in the information -- make, year, model, style -- to get a base price. To refine the appraisal, you can then go on to enter such things as mileage, type of engine, options on the vehicle, overall condition (on a rated scale), etc. You'll then enter your zip-code -- since estimated market pricing is adjusted based on the region of the country where you live.

The site does the rest of the work for you. The resulting calculated pricing-report displays:

• Expected trade-in value;

• True market value (if sold to an individual) and

• What the dealer would likely re-sell the same car for.

This is just one example of a site that can help you learn more about trade-ins. With just a little online research, you can find others as well.

In the segment that follows, Leilani talks about minor repairs that can help get your car ready for trade-in or resale.

Note: This is a summary of steps and tips shown in this episode of Auto Primer. These are general guidelines and applicable to most contemporary vehicles. There may be variations in procedures depending on vehicle manufacturer, model, age or condition of vehicle and in the applicable parts, products or kit. Always follow proper safety precautions, and read and follow manufacturer's guidelines, diagrams and safety notices that come with any replacement parts or product that you select. Also, familiarize yourself with your owner's manual before doing any work on your vehicle.

Safety Alert: Always dispose of automotive fluids and other hazardous materials responsibly. Many auto centers have auto-fluid recycling centers.

RESOURCES :

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Trouble-Free Car Care
Author: Dan Ramsey
ISBN: 0028635833
Alpha Books

Ultimate Auto Detailing
Model: 0879389419
Author: David H. Jacobs
(1995)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Motorbooks International

Auto Detailing: Step-By-Step Procedures for Complete Automobile Detailing
Model: 0801983940
Author: James Joseph
(1998)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Chilton Book Company
Westchester, PA 19380
Phone: 610-738-9280
Fax: 610-738-9354

Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896