Trade-In Checklist: What to Bring and What Affects Your Offer

Trading in your current vehicle is the simplest way to turn it into a down payment on your next one. A little preparation makes the appraisal faster and helps you understand the offer.

Documents to bring

1. Your title, if the vehicle is paid off. If a lender holds the title, bring your loan account information instead.
2. Loan payoff details: the lender's name, your account number and the current payoff amount.
3. Registration and a valid driver's license for everyone listed on the title.
4. All keys and fobs. Missing keys can lower an offer because replacements cost money.
5. Service records, if you have them. Records of oil changes, tires and repairs show how the vehicle was cared for.

If you still owe money

That's common. If your trade is worth more than you owe, the difference (your equity) can go toward your next vehicle. If you owe more than it's worth, the difference has to be paid or handled in your new financing — ask us to walk through the numbers so you know exactly where you stand.

What affects a trade-in offer

• Year, make, model and trim. Some models hold their value better than others.
• Mileage. Lower mileage for the vehicle's age usually helps.
• Condition. Body damage, worn tires, interior wear, warning lights and smells all matter.
• History. Accidents or title issues on a vehicle history report affect value. Our guide to reading a vehicle history report explains what shows up.
• Local demand. What buyers in the Ozarks are shopping for right now matters too.

What happens during the appraisal

1. We confirm the year, make, model, trim and mileage.
2. We look over the exterior, interior, tires and glass.
3. We start it up and check for warning lights and how it runs.
4. We review the vehicle's history and your payoff, if there is one.
5. We walk you through the offer and how it applies to your next vehicle.

Trading in vs. selling it yourself

Selling privately can sometimes bring a higher price, but it takes time: photos, listings, calls, test drives with strangers, and handling the payoff and title transfer yourself. Trading in is one visit, and your trade-in value goes straight toward your next vehicle. The right choice depends on how much time you want to spend and how quickly you need a vehicle.

Quick prep that helps

• Clean out personal items and give it a wash — first impressions count during an appraisal.
• Top off fluids and make sure warning lights are addressed, or tell us about them up front.
• Be honest about known issues. It keeps the process quick and avoids surprises later.

Common questions

Can I trade in a vehicle that doesn't run?

Tell us about it. We'll let you know how we can handle it before you make the trip.

Do I have to buy from you to get a trade offer?

Our trade offer is free and there's no obligation. Most people apply their trade-in value to their next vehicle, and we'll show you how that works with your numbers.

Can I trade in a leased vehicle?

Often, yes, but it depends on your lease. Bring your lease account information and we'll check the payoff with you.

Get your trade offer

Tell us about your vehicle in four quick questions — year, make and model, mileage, condition and payoff — and our team will reach out with your trade offer. It's free and there's no obligation. When you're ready, you can browse our inventory or get pre-approved so everything is ready at once.