If you’re considering upgrading your motor, part-exchanging your car can be a convenient and cost-effective option.
The popularity of part exchanging cars is rising, possibly influenced by the release of new car registration plates and Bristol Street Motors has spotted that searches for ‘how to part exchange my car’ have increased by 100% in the last three months.
However, to make the process as worthwhile as possible, the experts at Bristol Street Motors are advising there are steps you must follow in order to maximise your car’s valuation:
Five essential steps to get the best trade-in deal for your used car:
- Give your car some TLC
In the world of car trade-ins, first impressions count.
Making sure your car is spotlessly clean both inside and out before taking it to a dealership for an evaluation can greatly influence its trade-in value.
Don’t underestimate the power of a good clean, for something so small, it can make a massive difference.
- Repair any damage
Any small scrapes, dents, or scratches can negatively impact the trade-in value of your car.
Professionally removing minor and inexpensive damages on your car, means you are more than likely to make the cost of the repairs back in your trade-in value.
Make sure you only repair small damages to avoid overspending and ending up out of pocket when you get your valuation.
- Keep service or MOT checks up to date
Stay on top of your car’s maintenance.
Make sure any pending service or MOT checks are carried out before you part exchange your car.
A full service history can be attractive to buyers, as no one wants to buy a car without one and risk having to pay for costly work.
- Find items that came with the car
To get the best trade-in value for your car, it’s crucial to include all the key items that originally came with the vehicle.
This not only enhances the overall value but also shows dealerships and future buyers that the car has been well-maintained and kept complete.
Make sure to grab:
- Both sets of keys: Having a spare key can be a major selling point.
- All interior fittings: Items like the parcel shelf, which often go missing or are discarded, are expected to be part of a complete vehicle package.
- The spare wheel: It’s an essential safety feature, and confirms the car is prepared and has been kept accordingly.
- Get organised
Before you part exchange your car, it’s vital to get all your paperwork in order.
Make sure you have service history records, a valid MOT certificate, and your vehicle log book (V5C).
If your car is on finance, you will also be asked for a valid finance settlement letter which displays the final settlement figure. As well as the finance company’s bank details.