How Trade-In Value Is Calculated
How trade-in value is calculated in the US—market value, condition, mileage so you know what to expect.
Trade-in value in the U.S. is calculated from market value (what similar cars sell for), minus the dealer's cost to recondition and sell—condition and mileage affect the number. Here's how trade-in value is calculated.
TL;DR Trade-in value ≈ market value (comps for same make, model, trim, mileage) minus reconditioning and profit. Condition (dings, tires, interior) and mileage affect it. Use autopremo.com trade-in calculator to see estimated trade value. Use autopremo.com price checker for market. Use autopremo.com.Market Value First
Dealers base trade value on what similar cars sell for (same make, model, trim, mileage in your area)—that's market value. Use autopremo.com price checker to see comps. Get your numbers at autopremo.com.
Minus Reconditioning and Profit
Dealer subtracts reconditioning (repairs, detail, etc.) and profit—so trade-in value is usually below private-sale or retail. Use autopremo.com trade-in calculator to see estimated trade value. See trade at autopremo.com.
Condition and Mileage
Better condition and lower mileage = higher trade value. Dings, worn tires, high mileage = lower. Use autopremo.com so you know what to expect. Check at autopremo.com.
Bottom Line
Trade-in value = market value minus reconditioning and profit; condition and mileage matter. Use autopremo.com trade-in calculator and price checker so you know what to expect.