Should I Fix My Car Before Trading In?

Maybe your used car needs repairs, which is one of the reasons you want to trade it in for anew one. But will it have a good trade in value if those repairs aren’t done? You may be looking at your car, thinking, “Should I fix my car before trading it in? If I fix my car before a trade, will I get more for it?”

Repairing your vehicle before bringing it in to a Baton Rouge-area dealer may or may not be worth it. Let’s talk about what repairs should be done and which ones you can skip.

Simple Fixes – Should I Fix My Car Before Trading It In?

Some East Baton Rouge drivers have asked us, “If I just do little things to fix my car before a trade, will it make a difference?”

The answer is, yes, it can. Minor inexpensive repairs can go a long way towards increasing the trade in value of your car. Here’s a list of things to do:

• Detail the car on the outside.
• Detail the car on the inside, including upholstery. Make sure to get rid of any unpleasant odors.
• Use a paint pen or touch-up paint to fix minor scratches.
• Make sure all fluids are filled.
• Install new wiper blades.
• Replace bulbs that are burnt out.
• Fix cracks in the windshield.
• Clean headlights and taillights, especially if foggy.

Expensive Repairs – Should I Fix My Car Before Trading It In?

Another thing we’re asked is, “Is it worth it to fix my car before a trade if I have to make major repairs?”

You’re better off using that money for a down payment on your next car. Expensive repairs generally will not increase your trade in value enough to make it worth it.

How the Dealership Evaluates Your Car

Here are the things that the typical dealership will look at before determining the trade in value of your car:

• Vehicle make and model
• Model year
• Odometer reading
• Appearance
• Mechanical condition
• Maintenance records
• Vehicle history report
• How much comparable vehicles sell for in the Ascension area

Sell Us Your Car

We make it simple to trade in or sell your car at Acura of Baton Rouge. We buy all makes and models. What’s more, we pay top dollar. Why not get a head start and use our online tool to value your trade? We’re just down the road from Livingston. So, drop by or contact us today!