Whether you’re wanting to upgrade your current vehicle, looking to go green and ride a bike, or just in need of some quick cash, selling your car, truck, or SUV can be a headache. Well, it doesn’t have to be because you can make the whole process easy on yourself when you sell your car to a used car dealership near you.
Of course, it is still a process, so follow our five easy steps to make it even easier to sell your car to a nearby car dealership.
Gather vehicle information
Make sure you know all the details about your current car in order to get the best value. There’s a good chance you already know the year, make, and model of your car, but it’s helpful to have a strong understanding of the trim level of your car as well as the features and amenities that are included. For example, your car has a higher value if the model includes Bluetooth connectivity and touchscreen navigation system than if you’re still using cassette tapes and have a handful of maps stuffed in the glovebox. Take an inventory of the features to make sure you have a strong understanding of your vehicle’s ins and outs. If you have it, locate the title of the vehicle as well.
Calculate the value of your vehicle
There are a number of online resources you can use to get a good idea of the selling value of your car. Use online used car price guides like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to get an estimate of the value of your vehicle so that you know what to expect when you get the used car dealership near you. Take this number with you when you go to sell your car to keep you from getting fleeced by a dealership and taking a low-ball offer.
Find a dealership near you
Most nearby used car dealerships will buy used cars without expecting you to turn around and buy a car from their inventory them in return. However, not all dealerships will give you the same value for your used car. You can shop around online, visit dealership websites, and use trade-in value tools to give you an idea of the amount that specific dealership might buy your car for. Once you find a dealership, pay them a visit and let them know you’d like to sell your car to the dealership.
Negotiate a price
After a car appraisal, the dealership will come back with a dollar amount for which they’re willing to buy your car. If it’s not what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to let them know. You have the power to negotiate a price that works for you. Naturally, there’s a chance you might not get the exact number you’re looking for, but you can always meet somewhere in the middle.
Seal the deal
Once you settle on a price to sell your car, seal the deal with the dealership. They will draw up the paperwork and buy your car for the price negotiated on. If you’re in the red and owe more on the car than what they’re willing to buy it for, find out what options the dealership presents and go from there. You still have the option to walk away from the deal doesn’t work well for you.
Follow these five simple steps and you’ll be well on your way to simply selling your car, truck, or SUV to a trusted used car dealer in your area.