How to Sell a Car at a Dealership

car finance paperwork with key fob and pen


If you’re ready to trade in your current car for a new car in Chattanooga, you could be wondering how to sell a car at a dealership. INFINITI of Chattanooga is happy to help. Most dealerships around Dalton, GA will buy your current vehicle from you if you buy your next one from them. It’s a win-win situation because they make a sale, and you save money on your next car. Learn how to sell a car at a dealership here, and contact us if you have questions. 

How Does Selling Your Car to a Dealership Work? 

Selling your car to a dealership is a simple process. Learn how below:

  • Clean The Inside and Outside of Your Car: First things first.Wash the interior and exterior of your vehicle, or have it detailed by a professional.
  • Have Your Vehicle’s Title With You: Taking your vehicle’s title with you when you sell it will save the dealership time and get you an offer faster. 
  • Write Down the Unique Benefits Of Your Car: Take in your maintenance records, a list of upgraded features, and a list of all accessories, like key fobs or a subwoofer. 
  • Research Your Current Car’s Value: Use online tools from Cars.com or Kelley Blue Book to find the trade-in value of your current car. It will give you an approximate value of your car and is a good starting point for negotiations.
  • Replace Small parts that Need it: Replacing small car parts, like windshield wipers or worn-out old floor mats, is an effective way to increase the perceived value of your vehicle when you take it to a Dunlap dealership.
  • Choose Your Dealership Wisely: If you have a newer, gently used car, most Athens car dealerships will buy it. However, if you have a much older model car, it’s probably a better idea to sell it at a used car dealership.

What to Expect When Selling a Car to a Dealership

Once your car is ready for sale, the rest of the process goes like this: 

  • Make an Appointment: Sure, you can walk into a dealership to sell your car, but you might have to wait. It’s a better idea to make an appointment. That way, the dealership knows when to expect you. 
  • Ask for the Used Car Manager: Usually, they will ask you to work with the Used Car Manager or a salesperson. They’ll collect your pertinent information and run a vehicle history report on your current car. 
  • Inspection: Next, they will likely inspect your vehicle or ask the service team to do it. They’ll look it over and check the mechanical condition. 
  • Consider the Offer Your Receive: The dealership will make you an offer. You can accept it, negotiate further, or go to another dealership around Chattanooga to try and get a better offer. 

Benefits of Selling Your Car To a Dealership

Selling your vehicle to a dealership provides these benefits: 

  • Save Time And Avoid The Hassles of Selling to a Private Party: Wouldn’t it be nice to not have to worry about listing your car online and dealing with potential buyers? Plus you’ll avoid having strangers test drive your car. 
  • You’ll Have More Money For a Down Payment: When you trade in your vehicle, you can apply your trade-in value towards your next vehicle as a down payment. 
  • Save on Sales Taxes: When you trade in your vehicle for another, you only pay sales tax on the difference between the trade-in value and the price of your new one. 

Trade in Your Car at INFINITI of Chattanooga!

Now that you know the answer to the question, “How does selling your car to a dealership work?” contact us when you’re ready to take the next steps. Our finance center will get you top dollar for your trade-in and walk you through the entire process. Let us know how we can help.

More from INFINITI of Chattanooga

  • 2026 INFINITI QX60 Interior

      You can make every drive to Dalton, GA a first-class journey in the luxurious 2026 INFINITI QX60 interior. This 3-row SUV offers opulent upholstery options and flexible space to accommodate families of all sizes. Discover all the alluring details with INFINITI of Chattanooga below. Then, apply for financing if you would like to get pre-approved for a…

  • 2025 INFINITI QX80 Technology

      INFINITI is known for its commitment to luxury and innovation and nowhere is that more apparent than in the INFINITI QX80. Offering a cabin brimming with the latest infotainment technology and a wealth of cutting-edge safety features, the 2025 INFINITI QX80 is designed to keep you connected and confident on every Dalton, GA drive. Learn…

  • 2025 INFINITI QX60 Performance

    As you shop for your next three-row SUV, you’ll likely find yourself drawn to the balanced blend of power and efficiency in the INFINITI QX60. Boasting more horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency than ever before, the 2025 INFINITI QX60 engine ensures premium performance on every Dalton, GA drive. Learn more about the 2025 INFINITI QX60 specs,…

INFINITI of Chattanooga 35.0594042, -85.135145.