How do you trade in car that is not paid off?
Negative equity means your current vehicle is worth less than the amount of the outstanding loan. This is often referred to as upside-down. You can still use it as a trade-in, but you’ll be responsible for paying the difference between the amount you owe on the loan and the value of the car.
Is it smart to trade in your car when you still owe?
Yes, you can trade in a financed car, but the balance of your loan doesn’t just disappear when you do so — it still has to be paid off. In most cases, the loan balance should be covered by the trade-in value of the vehicle, but that will depend on a variety of factors, including condition and age.
Do you have to fully pay off a car before trading it in?
When you take out an auto loan, the car is used as collateral until all the money has been repaid. In most cases, it’s in your best interest to pay off your car loan before you trade in your car. That said, it’s still possible to trade in your car before it’s paid off.
What if my trade in is worth less than the car I’m buying?
If your trade-in is financed and you have equity, the dealer will pay the remainder of the loan and subtract the equity from the price of the less expensive car. If the equity of your trade-in exceeds the price of the car your trading for, the dealer will cut you a check for the difference.
Does trading in a financed car hurt your credit?
Your car loan doesn’t disappear if you trade in your car. However, the trade-in value of your car becomes credit towards your loan. This credit might cover the whole balance. If it doesn’t, your dealer will roll over your loan, combining the deficit with the amount owing on your new car.
What if I owe more than my car is worth?
You can trade in a car with an outstanding auto loan, but it’s important to consider how much the vehicle is worth and how much you still owe. If the loan balance is more than your car’s appraised value, you have negative equity – which also means you’re underwater, or upside down.
What happens if your trade in is worth more than the car you are buying?
If the trade-in value is worth more than the remaining balance on your auto loan, this difference (the equity) is credited to the sale price of the new car.
What if I trade my car in for a cheaper one?
Should I trade in my car if I owe more than it’s worth?
If you’re upside down on your car loan, it’s a good idea to delay your trade-in if you can — unless you are comfortable paying off your negative equity upfront. But if you need a new car soon and a negative equity rollover is your only option, consider buying a used car and borrowing as little as possible.