When to Trade in Alfa Romeo Used Cars

We see so many shoppers every day looking for a new vehicle, and just as many shopping for Alfa Romeo used cars at Alfa Romeo FIAT of Santa Monica. Thinking it may be time to trade yours in? These tips may help you decide.

After You’ve Owned it at Least Three Years

New cars begin to depreciate as soon as you drive them off the lot. They can depreciate up to 30 percent in the first year alone. Typically, once you’ve owned the vehicle for three years, that rate will slow, and you can consider trading it in if you want. Remember, once your car is five years old, you’ll begin to retain less and less of its original value, so if you want to get the most out of your investment, try to get in that sweet spot, if possible.

Once You No Longer Have Negative Equity

When people finance a new vehicle, they will often start with negative equity in their car. This means that you owe more on your vehicle than your vehicle is worth. If possible, you want to wait until you build up positive equity in your car. You can roll negative equity into a new loan, but then you’ll be even more upside down in your new loan.

When it’s Getting Old

Naturally, lots of drivers opt to drive their vehicles much longer. It’s always a great day when your vehicle is paid off, and you can start living auto payment-free. However, we encourage everyone to trade in their car while it’s still in good condition and before it wears out its welcome through repeated or escalating car trouble.

Ready to trade in? Visit our Alfa Romeo dealership near Los Angeles, CA, today!