Accelerate your equity: Trading in your vehicle
The latest models are here
And your current VW may help you get in one
With every new Volkswagen model year comes a perfectly-tuned refresh—from head-turning design and performance to innovative safety features and technology.
So, we ask you: Could it be time for an upgrade? We say yes.
Especially if these added benefits sound good to you:
- Get improved fuel efficiency
- Pay lower maintenance costs
- Keep your car in-warranty
Is that positive equity in your garage?
Vehicle equity is the value of your car in relation to the amount you still owe. With every monthly payment you make, you’re improving your current vehicle’s equity.
A really smart move is paying more than your monthly payment each month. Larger payments contribute to principal, too.
Higher vehicle equity = higher resale value = trade-in-your-vehicle-time
So, how much is your vehicle worth?
The Car & Driver Black Book® Trade-in Tool is a great place to start.
- Simply plug in your vehicle info to get a rough estimate of its trade-in value.
- Find out your current payoff amount. To do this, view your latest account statement or log in to My Account.
- Subtract this amount from the estimate Car & Driver provided. Make sure you save a screenshot or print out your estimate to bring along with you to the dealership.
Ah, new car smell…
Ready to see the latest available trims and colors? Go ahead and browse—you deserve it.
Boost your trade-in value
It may be common sense, but the better condition your vehicle is in, the better value it will have. To get the best estimate, we highly recommend the following:
Ensure your vehicle maintenance is up to date. Check the basics—fluids, windshield wipers, headlamps, etc. If you have your vehicle’s maintenance and repair records, that’s a nice extra to bring with you to the dealership.
Don’t get any cosmetic repairs. The amount you pay for expensive repairs may be more than the amount you could increase your vehicle’s value if you were to fix them. Plus, after you trade in your vehicle, the dealership can make the repairs at their discretion.
Include what your vehicle came with. From the floor mats to that extra set of keys, if you can set the next driver up for success, that will go a long way.
It’s vehicle appraisal time
Once maintenance and repairs are squared away, here’s your pre-appraisal checklist:
- Clean your vehicle inside and out
- Remove all personal items
- Make sure these items are present for both inspection and turn-in, including but not limited to:
- All keys
- Owner’s manuals and maintenance booklet
- Headrests
- Cargo covers (if applicable)
- Any equipment installed at the time of delivery
What to bring with you to the dealership:
- The account number for your vehicle’s loan
- The current loan balance of your vehicle
- Your driver's license Your vehicle registration
- Your vehicle’s title (if you have it)
- Proof of insurance
Head to a Volkswagen dealership and let them know you’d like your vehicle appraised. Appraisals can take 15-30 minutes. This is a great opportunity to test drive some vehicles while you’re there.
Feel good about the estimate?
Is your next VW in the lot?
When discussing your trade-in, let your dealer know you are financing with Volkswagen Financial Services, as well as your vehicle’s current payoff amount.
The dealership will contact Volkswagen Financial Services and handle the paperwork. They’ll use your vehicle’s positive equity to pay off your vehicle. And the rest? That goes toward your new shiny pair of wheels, my friend.
Learn your financing options
Whether you are currently leasing or financing with us, it’s worth considering if the alternative is best for you this time around.
If you lease, you’ll drive a new Volkswagen for a set amount of time and number of miles. You have three options at the end of your lease. You can choose to trade your Volkswagen vehicle in for a new one, purchase the vehicle, or return it at the end of your term.
The perks:
- May provide lower monthly payments on average than financing over a similar term on the latest models
- Flexible lease terms and a range of mileage options available
- Ability to turn in your vehicle and lease a newer Volkswagen model or buy your vehicle at a predetermined price
If you finance, your name goes on the title, and once you pay it off, you own it outright. And down the road, you may also be able to trade it in for a newer Volkswagen.
The perks:
- No end-of-lease obligations, such as excess wear and use costs
- No vehicle customization limits3 or mileage restrictions
- Competitive rates and flexible terms available from Volkswagen Credit
Ready to apply?
If you already have your eyes set on what you want to drive next, save time at the dealership and apply for financing through our secure online application.