How do I get the most for my trade-in?

Get 3+ outside offers (KBB Instant Cash, Carvana, CarMax) before you visit a dealer. The dealer's first trade-in offer is almost always 10-20% below private-party value — having a competing offer in writing typically closes most of that gap.

Should I tell the dealer about my trade-in before negotiating?

No. Negotiate the new car price first; only mention your trade-in once the purchase price is firm. Mixing the two lets the dealer move money between the two figures to obscure the actual deal.

All terms

Ownership & PricingGlossary

Trade-In Value

The amount a dealer offers for your current vehicle as credit toward a new one.

Dealer trade-in offers are typically 10-20% below private-party sale value. Get an outside estimate (KBB, Carvana, CarMax) before negotiating — and don't reveal your trade-in until you've finalized the new car's price.

Frequently asked

Trade-In Value — FAQ

Put it into practice

Where Trade-In Value matters on CarSavr.

Calculator

Trade-in value estimator

Related terms

Underwater (Negative Equity)

When you owe more on your auto loan than the car is currently worth.

Down Payment

Cash you put toward a vehicle purchase, reducing the loan amount.