How the Trade-in Appraisal Works in a Dealership

The used car appraisal process may vary slightly at each dealership, but the principles of the trade-in process are basically the same. The entire process normally takes anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the used car manager or appraiser is at the time.  Every appraiser is different, some may go through your car with a fine-tooth comb, and others may just look out the window at your car.

Keep in mind, an appraisal is just someone’s opinion of what your car is worth. There is not a scientific method or secret book that tells the true value of any used car.