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Four Tips to Receive the Highest Return for Your Minibus Trade In
When it is time to replace your minibus with a newer model you have one option: trade-in it in. Otherwise your old bus will take up valuable space and resources. You could also try to sell it yourself, but it takes time and effort to go through the correct processes. A trade in is much more efficient.
Getting the most money for your trade in can be a challenge. Even if you have taken care of your bus, years of wear and tear can make it look less than desirable. To get the most for your minibus trade-in, here are a few things you should do before you contact the dealership.
Get a Professional Tune-Up
Even if your bus has been running efficiently, it is a good idea to have a mechanic inspect your vehicle. A good tune-up that includes belt replacement, filters and fluids is a good starting point. But don’t stop there! The engine is only one part of the bus. Have a certified mechanic examine the tires, brakes, suspension and exhaust. Remember to keep receipts and records of the work. You can present them to the dealership during negotiations.
Fix The Things You Can
Small details can really make an impact on how your bus looks. Replacing the windshield wipers only takes a couple of minutes, but it makes a huge difference. The same holds true for burnt out or dim interior bulbs. Changing them is simple and it proves the electrical system is working well. Broken headlights or taillight covers are also easy to replace. These small details can make a big difference when presenting your bus as a potential trade-in.
Clean & Detail
Another way to get the most for a trade-in is to clean your minibus from top to bottom (link to past post). Every square inch of your vehicle needs to be as clean and polished as it can be. Start with the interior and clear everything that doesn’t belong. Make sure to pay special attention to passenger belongings and trash under the seats. Once that’s done, the interior is ready for detailing. You can do it yourself with just a few supplies, a couple of hours and some good old-fashioned elbow grease. If you would rather hire someone, there are plenty of companies that offer detailing at a reasonable price.
Make It Shine
First impressions only happen once so you need to wow the dealership. Spend the time to give your bus a thorough exterior cleaning. Again, you can do it yourself or take it to a facility that has the equipment to get every part of the bus clean. After a good wash and wax, hand buffing will bring out the shine and make your bus look like a gem.
Trading in your minibus makes good sense and there are simple actions you can take to ensure you receive top dollar. Following these four tips is a great way to ensure you get the most for your minibus trade in.
