Thinking about upgrading your ride? Whether you’re eyeing something more fuel-efficient, want extra space for the family, or simply crave a fresh start behind the wheel, trading in your current vehicle can be a great way to boost your buying power. But if you want to make the most of your trade-in, a little preparation can go a long way.
At Shepard Select in Thomaston, Maine, we’re here to help you get top dollar for your vehicle. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to boost your trade-in value and make your next vehicle purchase even smoother.
Why Is Your Trade-In Value So Important?
The higher your trade-in value, the less you’ll have to finance—or pay up front—for your next vehicle. That means lower monthly payments, better loan options, and more flexibility when choosing your next pre-owned car, truck, or SUV.
But trade-in values aren’t set in stone. They’re influenced by several key factors—many of which you can control. So, let’s break it down.
What Impacts Your Vehicle’s Trade-In Value?
Not all vehicles are created equal in the eyes of the resale market. Here’s what typically affects your car’s value:
- Make and model – Some brands (like Toyota, Honda, and Subaru) hold value better than others.
- Mileage – Lower mileage usually means less wear and more value.
- Overall condition – Clean interiors, damage-free exteriors, and working features count for a lot.
- Service and accident history – A clean record helps, but transparency is key.
- Local demand – Here in Maine, AWD and 4WD vehicles often command more during the colder months.
At Shepard Select, we base trade-in offers on real-time market data, local trends, and the actual condition of your vehicle. We want you to feel confident that you’re getting a fair and competitive deal.
Tip #1: Clean It Up
First impressions matter. A quick clean-up can have a big impact on how your car is perceived.
Give it a thorough wash, vacuum the interior, wipe down the dashboard, and toss any clutter in the trunk or glove box. You don’t need a full detail (though that helps!), but a tidy, well-cared-for vehicle sends the message that it’s been loved, and that’s worth something.
Tip #2: Find Your Maintenance Records
If you’ve kept up with regular oil changes, tire rotations, and service visits, now’s the time to gather that paperwork. These records help show your car has been properly maintained, which can boost its value and speed up the trade-in process.
Tip #3: Use Online Trade-In Tools
Online tools like Kelley Blue Book®, Edmunds®, and our Value Your Trade tool on ShepardSelectCars.com are great for getting a ballpark figure of what your car might be worth. Be honest about your car’s condition when filling out these forms. Overestimating could lead to disappointment. Underestimating might leave money on the table.
Tip #4: Timing Is Everything
Believe it or not, when you trade in your vehicle can influence how much you get for it. For example:
- Trucks and SUVs tend to do better in the fall and winter.
- Fuel-efficient sedans may be in higher demand during spring and summer.
- Convertible? Trade it in when the sun’s out.
The right timing, paired with the right dealership, can make a meaningful difference in your trade-in value.
Tip #5: Make Small Repairs (If It Makes Sense)
A cracked taillight or bald tire might not seem like a big deal, but it can cost you. Making minor, inexpensive fixes—like replacing wipers or topping off fluids—can improve your car’s perceived value and reduce reasons for lowball offers.
That said, don’t go overboard. You don’t need to replace brakes or make major mechanical fixes just to trade in your car. Our team at Shepard Select is equipped to handle reconditioning efficiently, so it’s not always worth spending hundreds trying to “perfect” your car beforehand.
Tip #6: Be Transparent
Honesty is key. If you’ve had past body work or an engine replaced, let us know. If you have two keys and an owner’s manual, bring those with you. These small touches help us understand your car better—and can lead to a better offer.
We appreciate openness, and we return it with transparent evaluations and competitive pricing.
Tip #7: Be Ready to Discuss the Offer
Even though our appraisals are based on fair market data, it’s perfectly okay to ask questions or share information that may not have been factored in. For example:
- Was the vehicle garage-kept?
- Are the tires brand-new?
- Do you have premium features like a sunroof or upgraded sound system?
These little details might not always be obvious during a walkaround—but they can make a difference.
Tip #8: Think About the Value of Time
Could you sell your car privately? Sure. Might you get a bit more for it? Possibly.
But selling on your own comes with some downsides:
- You have to list, market, and show the car yourself.
- You’ll deal with flaky buyers or price hagglers.
- You’re responsible for paperwork, title transfers, and safe payment.
At Shepard Select, we make the process easy. Bring in your car, get an offer, and apply it toward your next purchase that same day. No waiting, no online scams, no stress.
Trading In at Shepard Select: What to Expect
We pride ourselves on offering a straightforward, no-pressure trade-in experience. When you visit our dealership in Thomaston, you can expect:
- A quick but thorough vehicle inspection
- A transparent offer backed by local market data
- Friendly team members who walk you through the numbers
- The option to apply your trade-in value directly to your next vehicle
Whether you’re coming from Rockland, Camden, or anywhere along the Midcoast, Shepard Select is here to make your car-buying journey easy—and that starts with maximizing the value of your trade.
You don’t have to be a car expert to get a great trade-in offer. With just a little prep—cleaning your car, gathering records, checking online tools—you can walk into Shepard Select with confidence and leave knowing you got the most out of your current vehicle.
If you’re ready to trade up, stop by our dealership in Thomaston or use our online tools to get started. And when you’re ready for that next vehicle? We’ve got a wide selection of dependable pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs waiting for you.
Trade smart. Buy better. Drive with confidence. Visit us at Shepard Select in Thomaston, ME or check out ShepardSelectCars.com today.
