Understanding What Dealerships Look For in Your Trade-In

Trading in your car can feel like a real hassle , but knowing what dealerships look for can simplify the process. Here is a quick checklist that can help you maximize your car’s potential trade-in value.

1. Condition Matters: First Impressions Count!

When a dealership evaluates your car, they look closely at its mechanical and cosmetic condition:

• Mechanical Condition: Cars that run smoothly, with no major issues like engine trouble or transmission problems, usually earn higher trade-in offers. Regular maintenance records can help demonstrate you've cared for your vehicle.

• Cosmetic Condition: Appearance definitely counts! Vehicles that are clean, dent-free, and have minimal scratches or rust are more appealing. Investing in professional detailing or minor cosmetic fixes can significantly boost your car's value.

   

Taking the time to thoroughly prepare your vehicle—such as addressing minor mechanical issues, professionally detailing the interior and exterior, and organizing your maintenance records—can enhance your car’s curb appeal and potentially lead to a better trade-in offer from a dealership.

2. Mileage: Less Really Is More

However, don’t worry if your mileage is higher than average. If you've kept up with regular maintenance, keeping good records can go a long way. Dealerships love seeing a detailed service history. It shows you've taken great care of your vehicle, and that can help you snag a better trade-in offer, even if you've driven it more than average.

3. Trim Levels: Features Can Make a Big Difference

Dealerships pay close attention to your car's trim level because it directly impacts desirability and resale value:

• Basic Trim: Offers fewer features and thus tends to have lower trade-in values.

• Mid to High-level Trim: These trims often include popular comforts like advanced safety systems, navigation, premium audio, and power seats, adding significant value.

• Luxury or Performance Trim: Typically commands the highest trade-in value due to exclusive features that appeal strongly to buyers.

Interestingly, certain trim packages can become especially valuable if they’re rare or particularly sought-after by buyers. For example:

• Limited or Special Edition Models: Cars produced in limited numbers, such as the Ford F-150 Raptor, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon special editions, or Subaru WRX STI limited runs, often hold higher value due to their exclusivity.

• Performance-Oriented Packages: Trim packages with enhanced performance or racing-inspired features, such as Honda's Civic Type R or BMW’s M-Sport packages, are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.

• Luxury Trims with Rare Features: Luxury vehicles with exclusive interior materials (like rare leather colors or Alcantara upholstery) or advanced technologies can fetch higher trade-in values.

• Vintage or Retro Styling Packages: Modern cars with retro styling trims—like certain Mini Cooper, VW Beetle, or Ford Mustang special editions—can become highly collectible, enhancing their resale value.

• Off-Road or Adventure Packages: Vehicles specifically equipped with enhanced off-road or adventure capabilities, such as the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro or the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, consistently hold their value well.

4. Options and Features: Extras Can Add Up

Extra features can have a surprising impact on your trade-in value. Features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety often provide the best returns:

• High-Value Features: Navigation, sunroofs, heated leather seats, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring can substantially boost your car’s value.

• Common Features: Options that come standard or are widespread might not significantly affect the trade-in value.

Thinking ahead when choosing options for your next vehicle can help maximize its future trade-in value.

5. Market Demand: Timing is Everything

The current market demand for specific types of cars significantly influences their trade-in values. For example, SUVs and trucks might have higher resale values when fuel prices are low, reflecting consumer preferences.

Keeping an eye on automotive trends helps you time your trade-in to get the best possible deal.

Getting the Most from Your Trade-In

Usually, it's not just one factor but a combination of things that determine your car’s trade-in value. By understanding how dealerships evaluate your vehicle—taking into account its overall condition, mileage, desirable features, and current market demand—you'll gain a clearer picture of what's behind the offer you're receiving.

Trading in your car doesn't need to be stressful or complicated. We’re here to make the process straightforward, easy, and transparent. Ready to see what your vehicle is worth? Learn more about our trade-in process here.

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How to Keep Your Car’s Resale Value High

Taking care of your car isn’t just about maintaining a reliable ride today—it’s also a smart way to ensure it holds its value for the future. With a few specific steps, you can keep your car looking and running like new, making it appealing to future buyers. Here’s how to protect your investment with minimal hassle.

1. Keep Creative Maintenance Records

Organizing maintenance records can seem daunting, but there are simple ways to keep everything in order without creating extra work. Here are some specific tools and methods that make record-keeping easy:

• Maintenance Tracking Apps: Apps like Carfax Car Care, Fuelly, or AUTOsist are designed specifically for vehicle maintenance. These apps allow you to log each service, track recurring maintenance, and even set reminders for things like oil changes or tire rotations. Plus, they let you upload receipts and photos, creating a complete digital history.

• Create a Dedicated Digital Folder: If you prefer a straightforward approach, set up a digital folder on your phone or cloud storage (like Google Drive or Dropbox). Inside, create subfolders by service type (e.g., “Oil Changes,” “Brakes,” “Tires”) or simply save receipts chronologically. Many phone cameras also allow you to add titles or notes to photos, so you can quickly add a description when you snap a photo of a receipt.

• Email Receipts to Yourself: A quick and easy habit: email yourself the details each time you complete a service. Create a subject line like “Oil Change [Date]” or “Brake Replacement [Mileage].” You can search through your inbox easily when you need to find a record.

• Use a Simple Logbook: For those who prefer physical records, a small logbook in the glovebox can be a great low-tech option. Write down the date, mileage, and service details each time you visit the shop or complete maintenance. Add pocket sleeves for receipts if you want to keep everything in one place. A $5 logbook can become a valuable record when it’s time to show buyers how well you’ve cared for the car.

With any of these methods, you’ll have a reliable history of care that reassures buyers of your car’s consistent upkeep.

2. Master Interior Care with the Right Products and Techniques

Keeping the interior looking fresh is about more than just an occasional cleaning—it’s about using the right products to prevent wear and tear. Here’s how to keep everything looking as close to new as possible:

• UV-Protectant Sprays and Window Tinting: Sun damage can cause dashboards and upholstery to fade or crack. Products like 303 Aerospace Protectant or Meguiar’s Quik Interior Detailer are UV-protectant sprays that prevent fading and cracking on the dashboard, steering wheel, and leather surfaces. If you park in the sun often, consider adding UV-blocking tint to your windows, which protects interior surfaces and helps keep the cabin cool.

• High-Quality Seat Covers and Floor Mats: Choose seat covers made of breathable, durable material like neoprene or canvas to protect against stains, pet fur, and spills. Brands like WeatherTech and Husky Liners offer custom-fit floor mats that protect against dirt, mud, and snow, while remaining easy to clean. These products maintain the original condition of the upholstery and carpets, adding to the car’s value over time.

• Leather and Fabric Care Kits: For leather seats, use a dedicated leather conditioner every three to six months to keep them soft and crack-free. Products like Lexol Leather Conditioner or Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner and Conditioner provide moisture and protection without making the seats greasy. For fabric seats, a protective spray like Scotchgard Auto Fabric Protector creates a stain-resistant barrier, making it easier to clean up spills and keeping the fabric looking new.

• Frequent Dusting and Cleaning: Microfiber cloths are great for dusting surfaces without scratching or leaving residue. For a quick refresh, keep one in the car to dust the dashboard, console, and doors periodically. These small touches help maintain a pristine look, preventing dirt from building up and causing wear.

These targeted products and habits make a noticeable difference in keeping the interior fresh and attractive to future buyers, showing them that your car has been cared for inside and out.

3. Store It Right for the Long Haul

If your car isn’t used daily, proper storage can protect it from wear and keep it ready for future use. Here are a few specific tools and tips for smart storage:

• Use a High-Quality Car Cover: A high-quality, UV-resistant cover is essential for outdoor storage, while a breathable cover is ideal for indoor storage. A $50-$300 investment in a car cover prevents fading, scratches, and minor dings, all of which can reduce a car’s appeal over time.

• Battery Maintenance Tools: Use a trickle charger to keep the battery charged if the car is sitting for long periods. Trickle chargers cost around $20-$50 and prevent the battery from draining, saving you from needing replacements or jump-starts.

• Tire Protectors and Regular Rotating: Flat spots can form on tires if a car sits in one place too long. Tire cradles or saver ramps help distribute weight evenly, while moving the car occasionally prevents flat spots. These tools cost $50-$150 and can prevent the need for new tires, which could save $300-$600.

• Humidity Control: For long-term storage in humid areas, consider moisture absorbers or a dehumidifier to prevent mold, mildew, and rust. Small moisture-absorbing packs cost about $10, while a garage dehumidifier is around $200. These tools can prevent damage that would otherwise lead to costly repairs.

• Fuel Stabilizer: For storage longer than three months, adding a fuel stabilizer keeps the gas fresh and prevents buildup in the fuel system. Stabilizers are affordable at $10-$20 and help avoid fuel system repairs that could run into the hundreds.

These tools make storage maintenance simple and cost-effective, preserving the car’s condition and resale value over the years.

4. Build Buyer Confidence with a Maintenance Log and Receipts

When you’re ready to sell, having a complete maintenance log and a folder of receipts demonstrates that your car’s been well-maintained and reliable. Here are a few ways to present them:

• Create a Clear, Easy-to-Read Log: Use a printed summary or a digital document that shows each service by date and mileage. Highlight major maintenance points (like timing belt changes or brake replacements) to show buyers your attention to key details.

• Organize Receipts by Category: A physical folder or digital file with sections for different maintenance types (e.g., “Oil Changes,” “Brakes,” “Tires”) makes it easy for buyers to understand your car’s maintenance history at a glance.

• Include Major Inspection Reports: If you have reports from inspections or emissions tests, include them as proof of the car’s reliability and legal compliance. This extra documentation goes a long way in reassuring buyers.

By organizing and presenting your maintenance history in a buyer-friendly way, you create a sense of trust and transparency, helping your car stand out in a competitive resale market. With these steps, you’ll protect your car’s value while keeping it in top shape. Each of these tips requires only a bit of extra effort but can make a huge difference in preserving the car’s appearance and performance, helping you maximize its resale value when the time comes.

Get Top Dollar for Your Trade

Keeping your car well-maintained not only preserves its value but also helps you get top dollar when it’s time to trade. At our dealership, we recognize the care you've put into your vehicle and offer competitive trade-in values for well-maintained cars. Ready to explore your next ride? Check out our latest inventory and see what your trade-in could help you drive home today!

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The Clock Is Ticking

Twice a year, we reset the clocks, and it’s easy to feel a little out of sync—losing sleep and needing time to adjust. But while we can eventually catch up, our cars don’t have that luxury. With each passing mile and season, wear and tear take their toll, and without proper care, your car might not be performing like it used to. So, as the seasons change and the clock keeps ticking, you have to ask yourself: Is your car keeping up, or is it falling behind?

Signs Your Car Might Be Feeling "Tired"

Just like us, cars start to feel the effects of time. Over the miles, your vehicle might show signs that it’s not performing like it used to. These subtle hints can signal it’s time for some attention to keep things running smoothly:

• Worn tire treads – As tires age, they lose grip, making it harder to handle your car, especially during seasonal changes. Just like you wouldn't ignore worn-out shoes, your tires need attention before they impact safety.

• Slow starts – Does your car feel sluggish when starting up in the morning? It could be like that alarm clock that needs a nudge—your car might be struggling to "wake up" and perform at its best.

• Frequent repairs – If you’re making more visits to the mechanic than you'd like, those breakdowns and ongoing fixes could mean your car is "running out of steam" and working harder than it should to keep up.

These aren’t just minor inconveniences—they’re clear signs that your car is starting to feel worn out. Addressing them early on, or considering whether it's time to reset and upgrade, can help you avoid bigger issues down the road and ensure your vehicle stays reliable.

Why Upgrading Makes Sense

If your car is starting to feel more like a burden, it might be time to consider a trade-in. Here’s why upgrading could be the smarter move:

• Save on repair costs – Stop spending on constant repairs by upgrading to something newer and more reliable.

• Improved safety and technology – Newer models come equipped with the latest safety features and efficiency, making them better suited for changing road conditions.

• Better fuel economy – If your car is guzzling more gas than it used to, a newer vehicle can save you money at the pump.

Reset the Clock on Your Car

As we reset our clocks for the time change, it’s a great reminder that our cars might need a reset too. If your vehicle is feeling a bit tired—with frequent repairs, poor performance, or just not keeping up like it used to—this might be the perfect time to think about a fresh start. Instead of holding onto a car that's showing its age, why not trade it in for something newer and more reliable? Don’t let your car fall behind. Explore our trade-in options and reset the clock on your driving experience with a vehicle that’s ready to go the extra mile.

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If you love your car, would you get a tattoo of it?

Some people are so passionate about their cars that they would consider getting a tattoo of them. It’s not just a way to show off their devotion to their vehicle – for some people, it’s also a way to express themselves creatively.

A recent article on Autotrader titled The Most Tattooed Car Makes and Models is interesting in that it shows which cars are the most popular when it comes to getting inked. Be sure to read the entire article to learn the methodology behind the results. You'll not only see some of the most iconic used car brands for a few surprises along the way.

You Bought A Car And All I Got Was A T-Shirt

While getting a tattoo in general is not a universal sign of car love, it does show a high level of passion for a certain type of vehicle. More traditional examples of car love include, adding aftermarket accessories such as wearing a shirt with the car brand's logo, or getting a keychain or coffee mug with the car's image on it.

Have You Lost That Loving Feeling?

You probably didn't get a tattoo when you bought your car but there was a reason you fell in love with it in the first place. You kept it washed and waxed and couldn't wait to drive it around and show it off.

 Now you're faced with the reality that your car is getting old and you're not sure how much longer you can keep it on the road. You may be dealing with unexpected repair bills that cause you to question whether it's worth it to keep your car.

 Driving a car you don't love anymore is not fun. Why not trade in your old car for a newer model that you can fall in love with all over again?

 If you have been thinking about trading in your car, now is a great time to do it. We make it easy to sell us your car and get something you'll love again. We'll give you a fair price and take care of all the paperwork so you can drive away in style.

Is The Future Now Or Are We Back To The Future

Are you one of those people who believe the future is now? If you're not, then you might want to keep reading, because these two technologies may soon change the way we drive – and live.

Driverless cars have been in the movies for years, but only recently have they become a reality. In 2015, Google's self-driving car completed over 200,000 miles without a single accident. While there are still some kinks to work out – like how the cars will interact with human drivers – it's only a matter of time before these vehicles are on the road.

Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volvo have all announced plans to release self-driving cars in the next few years. So what does this mean for the future of driving?

For those who hate parallel parking there are models on the road that can do it for you. Gone are the days when cars didn't have power steering but it is still a skill that takes time to master. However now with "parallel parking assist" you can let the car do the work.

Out Of Time or Just In Time?

Just like old Doc Brown. you can get a cool customized personal banner on your licensee plate. But there's a big price to pay.

According to AutoBlog.com

Drivers in Michigan now have the option to purchase a digital license plate for their car. They are the 3rd state to do so. Their view as well as ours is they're not cheap.

"We'll start with what are claimed to be the benefits of a digital plate. First, there's customization; the plate can be switched between light and dark modes, and there's space for a personalized banner message at the bottom of the rectangle. Second, ease; renewing registration can be done through the Reviver app. Third, broadcasting; The plate can display public safety announcements like Amber Alerts. Fourth, tracking ability; the RPlate Pro contains GPS and telematics transponders, so it can locate a vehicle — one lost in a parking lot or one that's stolen, for instance. Because the Pro version is tailored for fleets, its telematics transponder can also do things like track mileage.

The price for all that is, well, pricey. Both plates require subscription plans that are far more expensive than getting new stickers for a dumb piece of aluminum. Subscribers can get the battery-powered RPlate for $215.40 per year for a four-year total of $861.60, or for $19.95 monthly for a four-year total of $957.60. The RPlate Pro is wired into the vehicle, so after paying $150 for professional installation, a subscriber forks over either $275.40 per year for $1,101.60 after four years, or $24.95 monthly for a total of $1,197.60 after four years. Subscribers should also know those prices can change. "

Is It Worth It? Probably Not.

It seems that the cost doesn't outweigh the benefits. You can already get a custom plate. However these optional digital plates are likely to become the standard in the future. It could be a cost savings to States in the long run. An Invalid message on the back of your car will stick out like a sore thumb to the Policeman driving behind you.

The Delorean Is Making A Comeback

Check Out The New Delorean Concept Car

According to NPR

The concept car – which was first teased back in February – is set to premiere at the prestigious California car show Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in mid-August, with limited production set to begin in 2024."

Is Your Old Car Stuck In The Past?

Maybe it's Time To Trade it In.

Many people feel stuck in their old car, even if it's not the most practical or efficient choice. What's worse, the thought of driving from dealership to dealership to look for a new one feels overwhelming.

Times have changed and so has the way we buy cars. You can now trade in your old car for a new one without stepping foot in a dealership. Our online showroom allows you to browse through our inventory, schedule a test drive, and apply for financing – all from the comfort of your own home.

Car Technology Advancements That Make Life Easier For Drivers

Are you old enough to remember when air conditioning and powered windows were optional car features? How about when you had to manually unlock your doors? If you are, then you've seen firsthand how far car technology has come in just a few decades.

Nowadays, we can't imagine owning a vehicle without them. In fact, new cars are loaded with all sorts of tech gadgets and creature comforts that make the driving experience more enjoyable. Here are just a few of the car tech advancements that have made life easier for drivers.

Automatic Climate Control

Curbside Classic

"Cadillac released Comfort Control, the world’s first fully automatic climate control system in 1964. This system is an amazing accomplishment and a reminder of how GM and Cadillac really once were the standard of the world"

If you wanted that type of luxury you had to pay a pretty penny for it. Nowadays, you can find automatic climate control in even the most basic of cars. This feature keeps the temperature at a preset level, so you don't have to adjust it every time the weather changes.

Cruise Control

Another oldie but goodie is Cruise Control. Great for long road trips when you don't want to wear your foot out by constantly pressing the gas pedal. It also helps you save on gas. Just set your desired speed and the car will maintain a consistent speed, as long as you keep your foot off the brake.

Wikipedia

"Modern cruise control (also known as a speedostat or tempomat) was invented in 1948 by the blind inventor and mechanical engineer Ralph Teetor.[4][5] He came up with the idea due to being frustrated by his driver's habit of speeding up and slowing down as he talked."

Heated and Cooled Seats

Another comfort feature that has become standard in many new cars are heated and cooled seats. This is a welcome addition for those who live in climates with extreme temperatures. Heated seats warm you up on cold days, while cooled seats keep you cool on hot days.

Backup Cameras

Did you know that backup cameras originated in 1956? Although backup cameras have been around for years they started to become more popular in the early 2000s.

Backup cameras are a lifesaver, literally. They help you avoid accidents by giving you a clear view of what's behind you when you're in reverse.

Wikipedia

"1956 Buick Centurion concept car, presented in January 1956 at the General Motors Motorama. The vehicle had a rear-mounted television camera that sent images to a TV screen in the dashboard in place of the rear-view mirror."

If you've ever tried to parallel park in a tight spot without one then you know what a pain it can be. a backup camera can be a lifesaver.

Tuesday, May 1st, 2018 - The Day Backup Cameras Became Standard

Car And Driver

"If you’re shopping for a new vehicle and it doesn’t have a backup camera or the feature costs extra, then it was built before Tuesday, May 1st, 2018. That’s when the safety device became standard on all vehicles made for the American market."

Although backup cameras have been around for years they started to become more popular in the early 2000s.

Keyless Entry and Start

Just like other car technology , keyless entry and start has been around for a while but it's only recently that it has become standard in new cars. This feature allows you to unlock and start your car without ever having to take your keys out of your pocket.

What Car Technology Is Next To Become A Standard Option?

Here are some other options that are starting to move their way from the luxury category into the mainstream. The average car buyer may not be able to afford all of these features right now, but eventually, they may become standard.

1. Automatic braking

2. Lane departure warning

3. Blind spot monitoring

4. Park assist systems

5. Adaptive cruise control

6. Heads-up displays

One of the most popular car technology trends is the inclusion of hands-free capabilities, such as Bluetooth and voice-activated controls. This allows drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while still being able to control.

Do you have a car with outdated technology?

It might be time to trade it in. You deserve the latest technology in your car – and we can help make that happen. We have a huge selection of cars to choose from, and we’ll make sure the process is easy for you.