When changing cars, you need to decide what to do with your old one.
The best choice depends on how much time and effort you are willing to spend.
Part-exchange
Convenient and quick, with no advertising or strangers. Dealers offer less than private buyers to allow for profit and reconditioning.
Selling privately
You often get more, but it takes time to advertise, answer questions, arrange viewings, and handle payment safely.
Instant online buyers
Online car-buying services can be quick, but final offers may change after inspection. Compare several.
Negotiate separately
- Know your car’s market value
- Negotiate the new car price before mentioning part-exchange
- Compare the overall deal, not just trade-in value
Preparing the car either way
A clean car with a full service history and both keys gets better offers from dealers and private buyers alike. Fix cheap issues such as blown bulbs, and gather documents before you list it. Be honest about known faults; disclosing them up front builds trust and avoids disputes later. Remove personal items and log out of connected apps and paired phones before handing over the car.
This is general car-buying information, not financial or legal advice. Prices, incentives, financing terms, and specifications change and vary by region — confirm all details in writing before you sign anything.