When it comes to trading in your vehicle, everybody has the same question: When is a good time to trade in? 

Ultimately, it’s your needs that determine whether it’s the right time to trade in. For example, certain lifestyle changes, such as the following may necessitate a change in vehicle:

• Family Growth: A growing family might need more space and advanced safety features.
• Job Changes: Longer commutes or job requirements can demand a more reliable and efficient vehicle.
• Lifestyle Changes: New hobbies or activities (like camping or boating) might require a different type of vehicle.
• Relocation: Moving to areas with different driving conditions may call for a vehicle better suited to those environments.

After assessing your own needs and deciding you want to trade in your vehicle, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of how to get the best value for your trade. 

How long should I drive a vehicle before trading it in?

The ideal time to trade in a vehicle is between 30,000-40,000 miles or about 2-3 years old, before new car warranties expire. But if you’ve driven past that, or even purchased a used vehicle with mileage over that to start with, it’s not too late. When trading in your vehicle, there are several key moments that could maximize your investment, which might include:

• Before factory warranties expire
• Before major service intervals
• Before 100,000 miles 

What’s the best time of year to trade in a vehicle?
Vehicles typically depreciate as they age, however, there are some seasonal factors worth considering.  For example, trading in your vehicle before the new models come out can make it seem fresher and possibly worth more during your appraisal. It can also depend on the type of vehicle you drive. A convertible might be worth more during the spring months because demand for them increases during summer. On the other hand, an SUV may snag a higher trade-in value during the fall when folks are preparing for ice and snow.

Trading at CarShop
Here at CarShop, we accept just about any vehicle and always strive to give you the best trade-in value. So, if you’re looking for an appraisal without the stress, visit us and experience a hassle-free evaluation. You can even start the appraisal process online.  When it is time to complete a trade-in appraisal and receive an actual offer, we recommend scheduling an in-person appointment with one of our buying specialists.

Ready to learn even more about trading in with CarShop? Just click here!