Trade-in & garage negotiation
Negotiate your vehicle trade-in: have the right figures in front of the garage
The garage knows the resale market better than you do—and its trade-in price reflects that. To avoid accepting an offer without context, Valocar gives you your vehicle's value range on the current Swiss market, supported by comparable listings.
Why the garage has the advantage
The garage knows what it can resell your vehicle for; you do not. Its trade-in price includes a resale margin and reconditioning costs. Without your own reference, the gap is invisible. You often have only an intuition or listings viewed superficially.
How the garage reasons: margin, risk and stock turnover
A trade-in is a service that facilitates the sale of a new vehicle. The garage subtracts from the expected resale price a gross margin—often 15 to 25%—and estimated servicing, cleaning, bodywork and tyre costs. A vehicle kept in stock for more than 60 days incurs financing, space and insurance costs, so less sought-after models receive an additional risk discount. The offer is often 20 to 35% below private-market value. This is not necessarily manipulation; it reflects the garage's business model.
Why a structured dossier changes the discussion
A documented dossier does not guarantee a higher offer. It does replace perceptions with verifiable facts: a value range and comparable listings. The garage may retain its position, but must explain the gap with the market. You know the exact difference and can decide whether the convenience of a trade-in justifies the discount compared with a more time-consuming private sale.
Frequently asked questions
The garage does not have to accept the Valocar price and remains free to set its trade-in price. The gap with the market may be significant because of resale, repairs and margin without necessarily being abusive. The free range can also be used simply to check the quoted price. A private sale generally achieves a better price but requires more time and involvement; a trade-in is faster and frictionless.
Know the actual value before replying
The Valocar dossier gives you a value range, central figure and comparables in a few minutes.