So you’ve been driving your current car for what feels like forever, and you’re ready for an upgrade. It’s exciting to buy a new car! However, there are several things to take into consideration before trading in your used vehicle. We’re here to help you get the most out of your trade-in with these five simple tips.

Since each car is different, the inspector will focus on the following things:

• The year, make and model of your car
• The milage
• Interior/exterior conditions, such as damage
• Any modifications made after the original purchase
• Mechanical problems while test-driving
• The vehicle’s history report for further background information on the car

2. Make sure your used vehicle is in good condition

When the time comes to trade in your used vehicle, you’ll thank yourself for keeping up with the car maintenance tasks the manufacturer recommends. If you care for your car well while it’s in your possession, it will be apparent during the inspection process. Be sure to keep all your receipts to prove you paid for the services. If your car is in need of any repairs, consider getting them done yourself so that the dealership doesn’t have to dock money from you.

3. Keep it clean

You want the first impression of your car to be a good one. Don’t take your car in to be traded before you’ve cleaned it thoroughly. Wash the outside, clean the dashboard, vacuum the floor and the seats. The cleaner and newer your car looks, the more money you can get for it.

4. Know the Value

Before trading in your used vehicle, make sure you know what its value is. If you have a general idea of how much money you should be getting for it, there won’t be any surprises. Keep in mind that some dealerships may have expenses for the actual inspection of your car, having it professionally cleaned, changing the fluids, the tires, etc.