Most people accept the first trade-in number the dealer offers. A little prep can move that number up surprisingly fast.
Detail the car
A professional detail costs $150–$250 and often returns 3–5× that in trade-in value. Clean interior, polished paint, clean wheels.
Bring the records
Receipts for oil changes, brake jobs, timing belts. Documented maintenance proves the car has been cared for and removes the dealer’s discount-for-uncertainty.
Get multiple appraisals
Carvana, CarMax, and your selling dealer will all give you a number. The highest one becomes your floor — and the dealer you’re buying from will often match it.
