How to Trade in a Financed Car
If you still owe money on your current car but want to buy a new one, trading in your financed car is an option—but it doesn’t automatically erase your loan. Here’s what you need to know to make a smart trade-in decision. Step 1: Determine Your Car’s Value and Loan Balance Before trading in your car: Check your car’s market value: Use online tools like Car and Driver’s Car Value Estimator to get an estimate. Know your payoff amount: Contact your lender to find out exactly how much you still owe. Equity matters: Positive equity: Your car is worth more than your loan. You can use the extra money toward a new car, lowering your monthly payment. Negative equity: You owe more than your car is worth. You can either pay the difference upfront or roll it into a new loan. Read More: Used Car CPO Step 2: Set a Budget for Your Next Car Consider how much you can comfortably spend on your next car. Your budget will influence how much negative or positive equity affect...