If you’ve been eyeing a new Ford Explorer, then consider trading in your used model to save on financing costs. You’ll find a handy trade-in calculator on our website where you’ll enter the make, model, year, and condition of your car. But, how do you figure out what category your vehicle falls into? Use these tips from our Ford dealership near Roseville for assessing the condition of your used car.

Assess your car’s quality and condition

Whether you use our calculator or one like the Kelley Blue Book, you’ll have to list the condition of your model. Here are a few guidelines used to figure out if your car is in excellent, good, fair, or poor condition.

Excellent condition. A car that falls into this category resembles a brand new car. You must not have any record of mechanical or bodywork repairs. You’ll need to show proof of regular maintenance. These models have zero rust, a spotless interior, and are ready to go to a new buyer.

Good condition. Models in good condition are like new. There’s no body damage and very little or no rust, dings, or interior damage. Many cars fall into this category. But, if your vehicle is in good condition, but you need new tires, then that may drop your car into the fair category.

Fair condition. Cars in fair condition often have older tires, a few dings, or some rust. These vehicles may have some interior upholstery or flooring issues. Yet, all of the problems should require only minor repairs.

Poor condition. If your car needs bodywork or major mechanical repairs, then it falls into the poor category. Vehicles in this group have a range of problems, so it’s a broad area.

Stop by our Ford dealership to check out the latest Ford Explorer models and get an estimate on your trade-in.