Sep 22, 2025

The question “Should I trade in my car now?” is one we hear often at Rolling Hills Honda. With the ever-changing automotive market, many drivers in St. Joseph, MO, and surrounding areas are wondering if they can get top dollar for their current vehicle. The short answer is: it’s often a very good time!

Here at Rolling Hills Honda, your trusted honda dealer in St. Joseph, MO, we’re breaking down what you need to know about trading in your vehicle and how to maximize its value.

Why Now Might Be the Perfect Time to Trade In

  1. High Demand for Used Cars: The market for quality used vehicles has remained strong. This means that dealerships, like ours, are actively looking to acquire well-maintained pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs. This demand often translates into competitive offers for your trade-in.
  2. Simplified Buying Process: Trading in your vehicle with a dealership streamlines the entire car-buying experience. Instead of the hassle of private sales—advertising, showing the car, dealing with negotiations, and paperwork—you can simply drive your old car in and drive your new Honda out.
  3. Tax Savings: In Missouri, when you trade in your vehicle at a dealership, you only pay sales tax on the difference between the price of your new car and the trade-in value. This can result in significant savings compared to selling privately and then buying a new car separately.
  4. Upgrade Opportunities: A strong trade-in value means you might be able to afford a higher trim level or a more feature-packed vehicle than you initially thought. Imagine upgrading to one of our fantastic new Honda SUVs in St. Joseph, MO, like the versatile Honda CR-V St. Joseph MO!

How to Maximize Your Trade-In Value

To ensure you get the best possible offer for your vehicle, consider these tips:

  • Keep it Clean, Inside and Out: A clean car makes a great first impression. Wash the exterior, vacuum the interior, clear out personal items, and wipe down surfaces.
  • Address Minor Issues: Small fixes like replacing a burned-out headlight, touching up minor scratches, or getting rid of strange odors can significantly boost your car’s appeal.
  • Gather Your Records: Have your service records, maintenance history, and any relevant documents organized. This shows you’ve taken good care of the vehicle.
  • Know Its Value: Do some research! Use online tools like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or Edmunds to get an estimate of your car’s trade-in value. This empowers you during negotiations.
  • Be Honest: Disclose any major accidents or issues. Transparency builds trust and helps us give you the most accurate appraisal.

Ready to See What Your Car is Worth?

At Rolling Hills Honda, we make the trade-in process simple and transparent. We’re always looking for quality vehicles to add to our inventory, and we offer fair, competitive prices. Whether you’re eyeing a brand-new Honda Civic, a spacious Pilot, or that perfect Honda CR-V St. Joseph MO, trading in your current car can be the smartest first step.

Don’t deal with the headaches of private selling. Visit us today to get a no-obligation appraisal for your vehicle. Our team at one of the top car dealerships in St. Joseph, MO, is ready to help you seamlessly transition into your next great ride.