Trading in a Car with Check Engine Light: Pros, Cons & Negotiation Tips
Ever wondered if you can trade in a car with the dreaded check engine light on? Picture this: you’re eyeing that shiny new ride, but your current car has other plans with its persistent warning signal. What now?
Table of Contents
In this article, we’ll unravel the mystery behind trading in a car with the check engine light glaring. You’ll discover the dos and don’ts, potential pitfalls, and savvy tips to navigate this common automotive conundrum.
Buckle up as we guide you through the ins and outs of trading in a car with the check engine light aglow. It’s time to rev up your knowledge and make informed decisions for a smoother ride ahead.
Understanding the Check Engine Light
When it comes to your check engine light, it’s essential to decipher its signals correctly. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
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- The check engine light is like your car’s way of saying, “Hey, something needs attention!”
- It indicates issues like engine misfires, a faulty oxygen sensor, or a loose gas cap.
- Ignoring it could lead to more severe and costly problems down the road.
- Don’t panic if it lights up – it doesn’t always mean a major malfunction.
- Get it checked out as soon as possible to prevent potential damage or safety hazards.
Remember, understanding the check engine light can save you from future headaches on the road.
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Pros and Cons of Trading In a Car with Check Engine Light
Trading in a car with the check engine light on can be a convenient way to upgrade, but it comes with risks and advantages. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Pros:
- Convenience: Trading in can save time and effort compared to selling privately.
- Upgrading: Get a newer or more reliable vehicle without the hassle of selling.
- Trade-In Value: Dealerships may still accept your car, offering a fair trade-in value.
- Cons:
- Lower Value: Check engine light can decrease your car’s trade-in value.
- Limited Options: Dealerships might restrict trade-ins for cars with certain issues.
- Potential Costs: Addressing the issue before trading can be an extra expense.
Trading in with the check engine light illuminated requires weighing these factors to make an informed decision.
Preparing Your Car for Trade-In
When preparing your car for a trade-in, it’s important to make sure it gives off a good impression. Here are some tips to help you get the best value:
- Clean Your Car: A clean car not only looks better but also suggests that it’s been well-maintained. Consider getting it professionally detailed.
- Address Minor Repairs: Fix small issues like a cracked windshield or burnt-out bulbs. These minor repairs can make a big difference.
- Check Fluids and Tires: Make sure all fluids are topped up and that your tires are properly inflated. This shows that you’ve taken care of your car.
- Gather Service Records: Providing documentation of regular maintenance and repairs can boost confidence in the vehicle’s condition.
- Remove Personal Items: Clean out any personal belongings from the car. You want the potential buyer to focus on the car, not your stuff.
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By following these steps, you can increase the likelihood of getting a better deal when trading in your car.
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How to Negotiate the Trade-In Value
- Research: Know your car’s market value so you can negotiate from an informed standpoint.
- Highlight Maintenance: Emphasize any regular maintenance or recent repairs to show that the issue is an isolated one.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first offer. Shop around to compare trade-in values from different dealerships.
- Be Transparent: Disclose the check engine light issue upfront, but also point out the car’s other strong points.
Ultimately, negotiating the trade-in value of a car with the check engine light on requires strategic communication and being well-prepared.
Tips for a Successful Trade-In Process
- Research Market Value: Understand the value of your vehicle by researching comparable models and recent selling prices.
- Highlight Maintenance Records: Present maintenance records to show that the car has been well cared for.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Visit different dealerships or utilize online valuation tools to compare offers.
- Be Transparent: Disclose any issues with the car upfront to build trust with the dealer.
Conclusion
Trading in a car with the check engine light on can be a convenient way to upgrade your vehicle while ensuring a fair trade-in value. Remember to research market prices, present maintenance records, seek multiple quotes, and be transparent during negotiations. By following these steps, you can maximize your chances of securing the best deal possible. Happy trading!
SEE ALSO Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident? Assessing Your Legal Needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it advisable to trade in a car with the check engine light on?
If the cost of repairs surpasses the car’s value, trading it in might be a better option. However, be prepared for a lower trade-in value due to the mechanical issue.
How can I negotiate the trade-in value effectively in this situation?
Research market prices, present maintenance records, get multiple quotes, and be transparent about the issue to potentially secure a better trade-in deal.
What are the advantages of trading in a car with the check engine light on?
You can save time, easily upgrade to a newer model, and may receive fair trade-in value despite the issue.
What are the drawbacks of trading in a car with the check engine light on?
Your car’s worth may decrease significantly, limiting your choices, and additional expenses might arise due to the mechanical problem.
Guide for Selling a Car with Mechanical Problems
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Table of contents
- Trading in a Car With Problems: How It Works
- How Can I Get the Best Value When Trading in a Car With Problems?
- Ways to Sell a Car with Mechanical Problems
- Repair the Car Yourself
- Auction Your Car Off
- Sell the Car Online
- Sell to a Used Car Lot
- Can You Trade in a Car That Needs Repairs?
- Engine Problems
- Body Damage
- Car Doesn’t Run
- Bad Transmission
- Car Has Bad Tires
- Trade-in Your Vehicle with Mechanical Problems to Junkcarsus.com
Updated: 02/14/2025
It is usually apparent that you should trade in a car with mechanical problems . At the very least, consider trading in your damaged or broken car because to trade in a vehicle with mechanical issues is sometimes more cost-effective than trying to repair it.
This is especially true for insurance reasons and the cost of repairs , which could total more than the car is worth for parts. When you try trading in a vehicle in bad condition, you may not fill your pocket with cash, but it can save you a big hassle trying to fix a car that just isn’t worth it.
If you have considered trading in a car that needs repairs , this article can help you. Here we will give you the starting place you need for dealing with your vehicle that is damaged by:
- finding out what the most common ways to sell or trade-in your junk car is,
- giving you details about the types of damages to your vehicle and what that means for trade-in or sales value, and,
- offering you the advice on who to go about finding and working with dealerships or wholesalers of junk cars.
Trading in a Car With Problems: How It Works
Selling your car that needs repairs may not be your best bet. You may want to consider the path of least resistance and trade in a car with the bad transmission or other severe damage and problems to a professional car dealer. Dealerships are not fun to work with, but they can be less hassle than trying to find a buyer on your own or even repairing your car with your own time and money.
When you go to a car dealer, there are several things that you and they will need to agree on before trading in a car that needs repairs . Be sure to have your homework done and know the amount you are looking to get out of your car.
Calculations about car value and repair costs need to make sense in order for a dealer to give you a reasonable price on your car. Remember, they need to make a small profit margin off of your car and the transaction with you as well.
The bottom line is that dealerships are out to make a profit, not help you. Have your bottom dollar amount that you need to get out of the car set before you walk into the dealership and get out of there if they cannot meet it.
How Can I Get the Best Value When Trading in a Car With Problems?
When sell car with engine problems , you need to do some calculations to know if there is any money to be made from the car or if this is a total loss car . A total loss car is when the repairs for the damage of the car are more than what the car is actually worth . To calculate if you have a total loss car, use the checklist below:
- Know the value of your car without damage : Knowing the base value for your car if it were running correctly is a great place to start your calculations. Kelly Blue Book is a great website for finding out the exact value range of your car in good condition based on mileage, year, make, and model.
- Know what the cost of therepairswould be : If you are trying to trade in a damaged car , you need to know the cost of those repairs to fix those damages . This can be subtracted from the totaled car value calculator in good condition and give you a pretty good estimate of how much a dealership is willing to allow for trade-in value.
- Have a reasonable bottom dollar : Even if you start out by shooting for more money from trading in a car with engine problems , you should have a base dollar amount that will make it, so you do not lose money on your car. Obviously, you don’t want to lose money on your car, so if the numbers aren’t making sense, regroup and look at other options.
- Will you lose money? : If the car is worth less than the cost of the repair , the dealership will probably know this too. Don’t be surprised if they reject your offer or want it dirt-cheap. Donation may be the way to go. Some of the best donation companies for cars will give you a tax credit of up to $1000, so this option can really be worth it if you are at the end of your rope of possibilities. Most of these companies offer hassle-free same-day pickup and can leave you with a lot less anxiety.
Ways to Sell a Car with Mechanical Problems
There are several options for you to sell a car with mechanical problems. If one option gives you a calculated total loss, you may want to consider another. If you don’t feel that trading in your car to a dealership is the best option for your car with mechanical problems , you may want to consider one of the four ways listed here to sell a car with mechanical issues .
Repair the Car Yourself
If you can, fixing a car with mechanical problems so you can sell it later is the most cost-effective solution. Doing the repairs on your own is an excellent option if you are a mechanic and can get the job done. You may even be able to make some good money from fixing up and then selling a car that needs repairs .
Auction Your Car Off
Auctions are available everywhere, and there is no condition minimum that your car has to be in to be put up for sale. Many of these auctions are attended by mechanics looking for cheap junk cars to fix up and resell or salvage parts from. You can truly auction a car in any condition, which takes the stress out of feeling like you have to get the car repaired before selling it.
Sell the Car Online
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Receive a guaranteed highest-priced quote for your junk car from the best junk car buyer by filling out the form online.
We’re open Mon-Sat: 8:30 am – 9:00 pm, Sun: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Book Online
If you feel that you can get your bottom dollar on your own, you can consider using a car sales site. The best free car sales site where selling a car with mechanical problems can get you your bottom dollar are listed below:
- Facebook marketplace : A good place to integrate social media, likes, sharing, and your friends with the sale of your car. The Facebook marketplace allows you to reach millions of people and can offer your car to people within a certain mileage radius for easy deal-making.
- Craigslist : Craigslist offers free posting of text and pictures for your car sale. Make sure to find a public place to meet, show the car and(hopefully) sell it.
- Cars.com : It is a well-known car selling site on the internet, and they even have a free option for selling cars. Of course, this listing only lasts about two weeks. You will want to pay $20 or more for the posting to stay up longer and attract buyers with advertisements for your car.
- eBay Motors Classified : eBay offers a car classified section to its users to post car sales and even offers to buy back and security guarantees.
- Junkcarsus.com: our website offers the highest price guarantee for your car with mechanical problems. Advertise your car to thousands of buyers, or have us pick it up the same day for free.
- Same day service : give us a call or contact us and our team can be out to your location for the same day pick up, estimate, or trade-in service.
- Free pickup : our trade-in service includes free pickup of your car, making the whole process of trading in your car a whole lot easier.
- 30 years of experience : Our team of highly qualified professionals have 30 years of experience making a valuation of cars, transporting, and working with customers on trade in.
- Highest price guarantee : When you deal with Junkcarus.com you can rest assured that you will be getting the best deal for your car trade-in. Our guarantee to you is the highest price cash value for your junk car.
- Engine problems caused by overheating or improper oil and air intake;
- Body damage after an accident or some natural causes;
- Transmission problems caused by overheating, slipping, or outside factors;
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-
Sell to a Used Car Lot
Used car lots will typically have a wholesaler who they deal with. However, if you can make them the right offer and they are low on inventory, you may be able to sell your car that needs repairs to a used car lot.
It is also a great idea if you are in the market to buy a new car. You may be able to negotiate more trade-in value than you would have received for the cash value of your car. Just make sure that you have done your homework on a total loss car and know how much the repairs should cost, how much the car is worth, and the bottom dollar that you need to receive from your trade or sale.
Can You Trade in a Car That Needs Repairs ?
To trade in a car that needs repairs , you must consider the specific type of damage to the car. Every kind of repair influences whether or not the dealer will take it as a trade-in and how much they will give you for the trade-in.
Trading in a car with problems is difficult, but this list will help you to know what your specific junk car may be up against.
Engine Problems
A check engine light is a dead giveaway that something is wrong with your car. If you have this light showing, you can guarantee that the diagnostic will be run, and the readout will tell precisely what is wrong with your car.
Most engine problems deal with oil or air intake, which are reasonably inexpensive. However, if the engine combustion is harmful, overheated, or the head gasket is blown, the cost of repair can be in the thousands.
Body Damage
When you trade in a car, you want it to look great. However, the fact that the vehicle is running is much more critical. Body damage can be fixed by the dealership body shop relatively quickly, and the fact that the car is running means it could be turned around and sold without the bodywork done. You have a high chance of making some money from a car that you trade-in, which only has body damage.
Car Doesn’t Run
A car that doesn’t run is not an excellent option for dealerships to invest in. Some trade-ins for a car that doesn’t run are chop shops that will buy the car for parts. These shops specialize in parting out cars and are your best bet to get the top dollar you can with the least amount of effort for your car that won’t start.
Bad Transmission
Transmission repairs are some of the most costly repairs you can do in a car. This is because the repairs on a transmission require you to take out many components to get access to the transmission parts. If you have a transmission problem, expect to spend quite a bit on repairs and get less trade-in value.
If you are a mechanic, you may want to consider trying to fix the transmission on your own. The fix is not easy, but you would be saving the many hours in labor that would be taken out of the trade-in value for your car. Most cars with severe transmission problems become total loss cars and are sold or traded in for parts.
Car Has Bad Tires
Tires are an essential part of the car that actually makes contact with the road. However, there is a broad spectrum of tires that are available for anyone’s specific car. If your car has bad tires and needs them repaired or replaced, you can probably find very cheap new tires or even used tires that can get the car to the dealership so that you can present a running car for sale or trade-in. A car having bad tires is one of the least expensive issues that your car can have and are relatively easy to fix.
Trade-in Your Vehicle with Mechanical Problems to Junkcarsus.com
Junkcarsus.com is one of the best places to get eyes from buyers in your car. Selling a car with a bad transmission or selling a car that needs repairs is done easier on Junkcarsus.com because this is where the buyers come looking and expecting to find value cars with problems. For those in Philadelphia facing similar challenges, there’s a straightforward solution: services that offer cash for junk cars in Philadelphia can provide a hassle-free transaction. Our inventory is made up of cars just like yours, and our buyers are paying top dollar for these cars.
The advantages of choosing Junkcarus.com include:
Our site has tons of junk cars that need repairs for sale and attract buyers from all over the internet looking for projects, parts, or value. Make easy money by posting your car that has engine problems on Junkcarsus.com !
How can I sell a car with mechanical problems?
The answer to this question depends on the type and severity of these mechanical issues. One option is to fix it and sell it to the dealer or online as a running car, or you can auction it — this way, you can sell the car in almost any condition, but it takes a considerable amount of time. Or you can contact us, and we will give you top cash for your vehicle with the same-day pick-up.
Is it possible to sell a vehicle that doesn’t run?
You can always take your vehicle apart and sell its parts to chop shops. However, you can break something while doing it or lose your money without knowing the details’ real cost. It is better to get in touch with a trusted partner with transparent prices and high-quality services.
What are the most common mechanical problems with a car?
Some problems with the car occur more often than others:
Bad tires. Usually, the problem simply occurs over time or after an accident.
9 Common Questions About Trading A Car In!
If you currently own a car and are considering visiting the dealership to discuss a trade-in, you probably already have a few questions in mind! I have been through this process many times, so let me see if I can help answer some of the most common questions you might have.
Trading in a car is usually pretty simple, but there are some potential pitfalls to try and avoid during the process.
Can You Trade In A Car With Expired Registration?
Trading in a car with an expired registration is nothing groundbreaking. It happens all the time!
But, doing so does tend to knock down the value of your vehicle in the dealership’s eyes. Therefore, in some cases, it may make more sense to update your vehicle’s registration before your trade-in negotiations.
Time is money in the dealership’s eyes, so saving them time will equal more money in your pocket!
The rules related to car sales vary by state. But, keep in mind that driving a car with an expired registration is usually illegal. That means doing so can result in tickets from the police and sometimes even your arrest if you get caught.
So you may want to consider hiring a tow truck to legally transport your vehicle to the dealer.
If you think you can roll the dice and risk-taking a short drive to the dealer, be aware that many police departments have adopted the use of laser scanners to read your registration information instantly while you’re driving.
That might mean that you get a ticket in the mail from an automated enforcement system down the road.
Even if you do get to the dealer without incident, they will likely have to incur costs related to re-registering the car, so they will not give you anywhere near top-dollar valuation.
You should check your state’s motor vehicle laws carefully to make sure you understand all of the requirements and the options you may have. It can’t hurt to do some research or to contact your state’s department of motor vehicles.
Some states will end up charging you a fine when you transfer ownership of a vehicle with a lapsed registration.
Suppose your car is not running or driveable. In that case, there is often an opportunity to register your vehicle with a non-operational title so that you don’t run afoul of registration requirements.
Since each state’s rules are different, you need to do some research. Even though your dealer can be a helpful resource in this sort of situation, don’t take their word for gospel.
You don’t want to poison your new car purchase by making a big mistake with your trade-in. Again, do some research and ask questions!
Can You Trade In A Car With A Loan On It?
Not only can you trade in a car with a loan still on it, but it is also a common practice to do so. Many people end up with a car that they want to trade in while they still have payments to make on the loan they used to purchase it.
I doubt that you will have any difficulty trading in a car with payments left on the loan at a car dealership. Let’s think about why it isn’t a big deal to do so.
Think of the trade-in value of your car as a credit towards a new loan.
If you owe nothing on the old loan, the total trade-in value is available to be applied to the purchase of your new vehicle. But, if you still owe money on the car you’re trading in, you are still responsible for paying that outstanding portion of the loan.
So, if the sum of the remaining payments on your loan is less than the trade-in value of your car, you end up with some money leftover. That can be considered as cash in your hand, ready for you to apply to your next purchase.
If the sum of the remaining payments on your loan is less than the agreed-upon trade-in value, you still owe the difference. Dealerships will likely tell you that you can rollover the unpaid portion of your old loan as part of a new one for a new car.
When rolling over a loan, you are essentially combining the remaining debt on your old loan with the total amount you are going to owe for your new car loan. Then you spread the total amount of the term of the loan. The payments consolidate into one monthly amount.
You should always be wary of over-stretching your budget when rolling over a car loan. You are, in effect, going to be paying for two cars at the same time. So, you should be careful to understand the terms and not over-extend yourself.
You want to avoid getting into a situation where you have negative equity in a loan if possible. Your dealer can help walk you through the steps, but remember that they are a business, and their primary motivation is to make a sale, not to protect your finances.
Make sure that you are looking at a new car loan that fits your budget and that you are getting the maximum trade-in value for your old car.
Can You Trade In A Car With Negative Equity?
Yes, and it is relatively common to do so!
Anytime you owe more than your vehicle is worth, you have negative equity. When you trade it in, it is quite common to have your old debt rolled into the financing agreement on your new purchase.
You’re basically going to be paying off your old loan as part of a new one. But, be careful. You can easily end up with an arrangement that not only increases your costs but makes it harder to ever achieve positive equity. This is the last thing anyone wants.
To mitigate the risks of carrying negative equity, consider that there are a few things you can do.
First, make sure you’re not just taking your dealer’s word for it when it comes to the value of your trade-in. There are quite a few reputable third-party sources to see the value of your car.
Compare that to the dealer’s offer to references online and make sure they’re in the same ballpark.
This will also help you really see how much negative equity you have. If you still owe $14,000 on your loan, and your car is only worth $10,000, the remaining $4,000 is your total negative equity.
You should also at least investigate the price you could get for your vehicle in a private sale.
That number is usually a bit higher than what a dealer is willing to offer as a trade-in value. But, it usually means you will have a bit more work to do when it comes to advertising your vehicle and completing the required paperwork.
Now, armed with the facts, you can push for a better trade-in value from your dealer. They probably won’t give you the full market value, but you can push back a bit on their number if you know the market price.
You can always consider buying a cheaper car to account for the negative equity you’re holding on your own vehicle. Or, if your current vehicle is serving you well, perhaps hold on to it until you’re all the way out from under the loan.
Be wary of extending the new loan’s term because that is likely to put you right back in the same negative equity situation at the end of your new loan.
Everyone’s circumstances are different, so it’s important that you take stock of your unique situation and see what’s available. If your vehicle is holding up fine, then waiting a little longer might be a great idea.
However, if you are beginning to struggle to get to work, then other sacrifices might need to be made to get that new car.
Only you know your exact finances and what you are willing to sacrifice for. If in doubt, just create an excel sheet to better compare prices and potential budget scenarios.
Can You Trade-in A Car With Expired Tags?
To me, expired tags are pretty much synonymous with an expired registration. If your plates are expired, it’s likely that your vehicle’s registration has also lapsed. But, just like with an expired registration, you can absolutely trade in a car with expired tags.
I do recommend making sure that you do some research to make sure that you comply with the laws of the state where you live and where your car is registered.
There are often very specific rules that govern how to surrender your plates, what happens if they or your registration lapse, and the requirements for maintaining insurance on your vehicle.
To make sure you avoid any legal entanglements or fines, it’s always best to check the laws where you live.
If you don’t really know what to do, consider calling your car dealer. They have probably dealt with similar issues and might be able to offer some advice. They may even be motivated to help so that they can sell you a new car and put your current vehicle into their inventory.
Can You Trade In A Car With A Salvage Title?
In short, you can absolutely trade in a car with a salvage title. But it might be pretty complicated to do so. Dealers tend to avoid salvage titles as trade-ins because their value has been compromised.
Even if they trust you or have worked with you a lot in the past, it is almost impossible for them to know what the risk of future repairs might be for a vehicle with a salvage title.
Since, at some point, the value of the vehicle was less than the estimated costs to repair it (hence the salvage title), it is nearly impossible to determine a fair market valuation.
The dealer does not want to end up holding the bag if the car is unfixable or unsellable down the road.
They are also probably afraid that no one will want to buy it from them because insurance companies are unlikely to pay out much money in the event of an accident. The value has become compromised.
You will probably be better off trying to do a private sale instead of trading in a vehicle with a salvage title.
But, it can’t hurt to approach your dealer and discuss the options. Sometimes, they might have a mechanic or staff person who wants to try and fix a salvage car they find desirable.
Can You Trade In A Car With A Cracked Windshield?
Yes, you can trade in a car with a cracked windshield. However, there is an increased likelihood you will get a low-ball offer as the dealership may assume that the vehicle has been poorly cared for and will require additional maintenance to resell.
Most car buyers, whether private individuals or purchasing agents at an automotive dealer, will view a cracked windshield as a signal that the car is in rough shape.
They are saying to themselves, ‘If they didn’t fix the crack in the windshield, what else have they let go?’ Fairly or unfairly, they will likely think that you haven’t done much to maintain the car.
So you should expect that the trade-in value will take a hit. Additionally, some states require a safety inspection.
If the crack in the windshield makes the vehicle fail the inspection, the dealer will have to fix it out of their own pocket, so cutting into the trade-in value is good business for them.
If it’s just a small crack, it may be possible to repair it. But, if it’s not repairable, you should also keep in mind that replacing a windshield is often covered by your insurance policy, often at little cost to you aside from a deductible.
Even if it is not covered by insurance or you do have an out-of-pocket expense, you can probably get the windshield replaced by a reputable windshield service company fairly inexpensively.
Some of them even come to you to do the work, making it very convenient. Your dealer may even be able to point you toward a local windshield replacement company.
Can You Trade In A Car With Mechanical Issues?
Trading in a car will most often require an inspection. If that inspection reveals mechanical issues, the dealer’s offer will plummet, especially if you tried to hide the issues from them.
You can trade in a vehicle with mechanical problems, and the old axiom of ‘honesty is the best policy will be helpful in getting the best value for your trade-in.
If you suspect your car has an issue, be upfront about it. Pretending it doesn’t exist isn’t likely to do you any favors.
Dealers will scrutinize your trade-in car visually via vehicle history records searches through companies like Carfax and by using a scan tool to read out any error codes stored on your vehicle’s onboard computer.
Now, there are tricks you can do to hide mechanical issues. For instance, You can unplug the battery for a period of time and likely remove any fault codes. Or, you can clean up leaking oil from a bad gasket and try to hide the evidence of other mechanical defects.
But, if your tricks are discovered during a trade-in inspection, the dealer might not even make you an offer at all. How could they have any faith that you’re not hiding something else? This is a risk to do and should only be done with minor issues that do not compromise the integrity of the vehicle.
Ethically speaking – it makes sense to simply fix things that are broken where it makes sense and avoid trying to hide things.
Can You Trade In A Car With Damage?
Cars with damage are traded every day. After a few years of use, most cars end up with some scratches, marring, or little dents. It happens no one has perfect luck with caring for their car and keeping it in pristine condition. When it comes time to trade it in, minor incidental issues won’t affect the value too much.
But, incidental damage stops with things like door dings from cars parking too closely, bumper scuffs, and road-rash on the wheels. If you have a big dent in the fender, a rusty quarter panel, or broken tail lights from a crash, your trade-in value is going to drop like a stone.
Take advantage of touch-up paint, paint-less dent repair, and eBay. Repair minor scratches, try and pop out those little dents, or have a pro do it for you for a nominal fee.
And, get on the internet and see if you can find a cheap replacement part to replace the shattered tail light or the cracked bumper.
You might be surprised how inexpensively you can purchase quality used and new parts online. Sometimes, you can even order body panels that are already primed or painted to match your vehicle.
Making sure your car looks presentable can make all the difference when you reach out to trade it in. The last thing you want is to lose out on a great deal on a new vehicle because you didn’t get quite as much as you expected for your current one.
Can You Trade In A Car With A Check Engine Light On?
Approaching a dealer about a trade while your vehicle is showing a check engine light (CEL) is asking to get a low-ball offer.
Dealers will look at a CEL and assume the worst. Even if it’s just indicating a faulty oxygen sensor, they will likely assume that all the oxygen sensors need to be replaced.
And, where there is one repair gremlin, there is almost always another! So their calculations will err on the side of financial caution. They don’t want to get caught holding the bag if that CEL turns out to be the tip of the iceberg.
So, it’s often a good idea to have the CEL checked and perform the required repair prior to asking about a trade-in. Instead of showing up with a mysterious CEL, you show up with a service record that includes a timely repair. This puts you and your car in a much better light.
And, if you try the old unplug the battery trick to clear the code and the code shows up on their scan anyway, they are going to offer you a pittance for your car. A little bit of proactive maintenance will likely help boost their offer a bit.
You are trying to get the most bang for your buck when you trade in your vehicle. It was an investment for just this reason, so it is imperative that you take the time to make it look in tip-top shape.
You are trying to sell in essentially, so why would you offer a product that isn’t up to snuff and limit your own profits?
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Posted on Last updated: June 28, 2023
https://junkcarsus.com/article/guide-for-selling-a-car-with-mechanical-problems