If you’re thinking about upgrading your car in 2025, trading it in can be a smart way to reduce the cost of your next vehicle. But how do you get the best value for your current car in Ireland?
Here’s everything you need to know — from preparing your vehicle to negotiating with confidence at car dealerships in Dublin, Cork, or anywhere in Ireland.
💰 1. Know Your Car’s True Value
Before speaking to any used car dealer, get a realistic market valuation.
✅ Use trusted Irish tools or IrishAutoMarket’s free valuation tool
✅ Check similar models listed under cars for sale Ireland
✅ Consider:
- Mileage
- Year / model
- Service history
- NCT status
💡 Tip: Avoid guessing — even small mileage differences can affect value.
🧼 2. Clean and Prep Your Car Like You’re Selling It
First impressions matter — even for trade-ins.
- Clean inside & out
- Remove personal items
- Fix small issues (bulbs, wipers, scratches)
- Top up screen wash, oil
- Ensure tyres are legal (tread depth >1.6mm)
🧽 A clean car often gets valued €300–€500 higher.
🛠️ 3. Get Your NCT in Order
Having a valid NCT gives the dealer more confidence — and you more value.
📌 NCT check Ireland tip:
- NCT valid = better offer
- NCT expired = dealers may knock €500+ off value
Schedule a test if needed — NCT cost in Ireland is €55, and well worth it before a trade-in.
🧾 4. Bring Full Documentation
Show the dealer you’ve looked after your vehicle:
- Service history
- NCT cert
- Logbook (VRC)
- Proof of recent repairs
- Any warranty left
📎 Bring two copies of the paperwork and mention any parts still under warranty.
🔄 5. Time It Right (Before New Reg Drops)
Want the best value? Trade in before July or January — before Ireland’s new registration plates are issued.
Why?
Your car will be seen as “one reg older” after the new plate comes out, which can drop your trade-in value fast.
🧭 6. Get Multiple Quotes
Don’t accept the first offer.
📍 Visit:
- 2–3 car dealers in Dublin, Cork, or your local area
- Online used car valuation tools
- IrishAutoMarket’s quote matching
Compare your trade-in + deal package, not just the car value alone.
🔄 7. Combine with Finance Offers
If you’re getting a new or nearly new vehicle, trade-ins work well with:
- PCP Ireland plans
- 0 APR cars Ireland offers
- Used car finance options with cashback
📌 Make sure you’re getting a good overall deal, not just a high trade-in number on a high-priced car.
🚫 8. Don’t Oversell – Be Transparent
Trying to hide problems might backfire — dealers will inspect everything.
✅ Be upfront about:
- Scratches
- Engine warning lights
- Previous accident history
🎯 Honesty builds trust and often leads to better negotiation.
🏁 Final Tip: Trade-In at IrishAutoMarket
At IrishAutoMarket, we help sellers find the highest trade-in offers from our trusted network of dealers and used car experts — nationwide.
Use our car owner check free tool, book a valuation, and access verified dealers in your area.
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