Video: How Dealers Determine Your Trade-In Value

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A trade-in offer is based on more than year, make and model. Here’s what a dealer looks at.

In This Video

• 0:00 The basics that identify your vehicle
• 0:19 Condition
• 0:32 History, demand and online estimates
• 0:50 How to prepare

Video Summary

A trade-in offer is based on more than year, make and model. An appraisal starts with the basics that identify the exact vehicle: the VIN, model year, trim, drivetrain, mileage and title status. Then comes condition: paint, dents, glass, tires and the interior, warning lights, keys and accessories, and how the vehicle starts, drives, brakes and steers. Vehicle history and service records add context, and market demand matters too, so the same vehicle can appraise differently at different times. An online estimate is a useful starting point, but it only knows what you entered; an in-person appraisal sees the actual condition. To prepare, remove your personal items, bring all keys, accessories and service records, gather your title, registration and payoff information, and be ready to talk about any known issues.

Read the full guide: What Dealers Check During a Vehicle Trade-in Appraisal

Questions? Call our sales team at 855-969-1868 or visit Tom Peacock Nissan at 15300 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77090.

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This video uses an AI-generated presenter on behalf of Tom Peacock Nissan. Trade-in offers depend on an in-person appraisal of the vehicle’s condition, history and current market conditions. Online estimates are not final offers.