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How Does a Car Trade-In Value Work?


How Does a Car Trade-In Value Work?

Interested in trading in your car near Ithaca, Elmira, and Cortland, NY? If so, our team at Maguire Ford is here to help. We created the following guide to inform you about how a car trade-in value works. As you read ahead, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions!

What Impacts a Ford Trade-In Value?


The trade-in value for your car is determined by a variety of factors, including its age, make, model, mileage, and condition. Along with these considerations, the demand for your vehicle and the location may impact its trade-in value.

How Does a Car Trade-In Value Work?

When you use an online trade-in appraisal tool, the system will take these factors into account to give you an estimated value for your vehicle. For your convenience, we have a value your trade tool directly on our website. It draws information from the same Black Book® data used across the country. Simply plug in your:

  • Year
  • Make
  • Model
  • Mileage
  • ZIP code

Once you do, you’ll receive a trade-in appraisal within as little as 20 seconds. With this information in hand, you’re ready to spruce up your car to get the highest trade-in offer possible.

How Can I Boost the Trade-In Value of My Car?


In general, cars that have been well maintained will receive a higher trade-in offer. That’s because a vehicle that’s been given routine service will likely be in better working condition. So, if your car needs an oil change, tire rotation, or another type of maintenance, it’s a good idea to bring it to a trusted service technician before trading in your car.

How Does a Car Trade-In Value Work?

Along with that, if the vehicle has any dents, dings, or scratches in it, you may consider bringing it to an auto body shop for repairs. Once that’s all taken care of, it’s time to detail the vehicle. You can pay a professional to do this or do it yourself.

Make sure to wash the exterior, vacuum and wipe down the interior, and remove your personal belongings. Then, before heading to the dealership, gather any extra sets of keys and all related documentation, including the owner’s manual, as well as:

  • Title
  • Registration
  • Auto insurance

Having all this information with you will ensure a smooth, streamlined process at the dealership. One of the reasons trading in your car is so quick and efficient is because you don’t have to spend time or energy selling the vehicle yourself or handling the paperwork.

Inventory & Financing Options


How Does a Car Trade-In Value Work?

Before visiting the dealership, you can also browse the inventory online, so you know which car you want to drive off the lot. With our convenient search bar, you can narrow down your options by your desired:

  • Year
  • Make
  • Model
  • Mileage & more!

To help you begin the financing process ahead of time, we have a Credit Application and a Payment Calculator you can use to determine your buying power. We offer new and pre-owned specials too, so be sure to check back often to view our current deals!

Vale Your Car Trade-In Today

Ready to unload your current set of wheels and drive off in your next ride? If so, contact one of our friendly team members at Maguire Ford to find out how you our Ford trade in options near Ithaca, Elmira, and Cortland, NY, today!

Contact Us

Maguire Ford

504 South Meadow Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
Driving Directions
Sales 607-391-6019
Service 607-645-5384
Parts 607-391-6018
Monday 8:00AM - 8:00PM
Tuesday 8:00AM - 8:00PM
Wednesday 8:00AM - 8:00PM
Thursday 8:00AM - 8:00PM
Friday 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Saturday 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Sunday Closed
Monday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Tuesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Wednesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Thursday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Friday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Saturday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Sunday Closed
Monday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Tuesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Wednesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Thursday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Friday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Saturday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Sunday Closed
Monday 8:00AM - 8:00PM
Tuesday 8:00AM - 8:00PM
Wednesday 8:00AM - 8:00PM
Thursday 8:00AM - 8:00PM
Friday 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Saturday 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Sunday Closed