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Introduction
1. How do you start?
2. What's the best car for you?
3. Diesel or Petrol?
4. How Much Can You Afford?
5. Do Your Research Online
6. Old Car - Trade-in vs. Private sale
7. Where to buy- Choosing a Dealer?
8. Pricing the car
9. Trying it out – Test Drive
10. Closing the deal & signing the paper
 
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Step 6: Old Car - Trade-in vs. Private sale
  There are two basic choices when deciding what to do with your old vehicle: sell it privately or trade it in.  
Selling it privately
You may receive a higher price but like most things, it will require additional work. First you must establish a value for your vehicle. Watch automotive internet advertising section for similar vehicles. It will help you set a fair price based on your local market.

Be honest about the price and condition of your vehicle. You don't want to scare away potential buyers with an unrealistic price.

Advertise your vehicle online at www.autoindia.com. Be sure to list the make, model and options, along with other pluses. Low mileage and certain features will raise the price of your vehicle.

Prepare your vehicle for resale by having the car cleaned and detailed by a professional automotive shop. Having your car cleaned gives you an edge over other vehicles in the market. An attractive car can justify a higher selling price.
Trading in your vehicle
  This may be a way to go; the only drawback is that you may not get the best price. Trade-ins are easy because the dealers do all the paperwork and title transfers. The amount of tax may be based on the total sales price. This price may be reduced by the amount of the trade-in; thus less taxes would be assessed. The value of your trade can also provide you with a down payment for the new vehicle, provided you have equity in the vehicle. Remember, when you trade in you will generally receive less for your car than you would if you sold it outright. The dealer who accepts your trade must build in a margin for profit if he is going to resell your old vehicle. You will typically receive what is known as the wholesale value for the vehicle. Trade-ins are easy but you will pay for that convenience.

Generally speaking dealers will pay between 10-20 per cent less for your car than if you were to sell it privately. If the car's condition is a bit rough, it may be best to trade it in. But if it's a tidy low-mileage car, it would be better to sell privately and put the cash towards your new car.

Here’s a list of things to do in preparation for a trade-in or a Private sale:
 
  Wash and wax the exterior  
  Thoroughly clean the interior fabrics, vacuum the carpet, and remove any debris such as food wrappers, coins, aluminum cans, etc.  
Change the oil and oil filter. The dealer will check the dipstick to make sure the car’s engine has been properly cared for.
If any repair work needs to be done, get an estimate on the cost. The value of your car is lessened with every flaw, so know exactly how much repairs will cost. This will help you arrive at a fair value for your trade.
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