The "car trade in" option is a very popular one when you are getting ready to switch your cars. Trade ins can be of old, used vehicles that still have some value, and is usually the car you are currently driving. When you go to get your next car, which can be new or used, you can trade that car in for some money. That money will directly go towards the purchase or lease of your new or used car. The trade in process if very simple. When you are at the car dealership, they will look at your car briefly for any damages, flaws, and other important items (like mileage). From there, they will give you a value for the car. You do not have to trade the car in, but if you do, they will put that much towards your next deal. The trade in process is great because it does not create a second transaction. If you choose to sell your car privately instead of a trade in, you will likely get more money than the trade in value. However, this creates a second transaction, which isn't guaranteed. If you do the deal before the purchase, you will be without a car for some time. The trade in process simplifies the process, but in the end, you do leave some money on the table. If you are looking for more information, please check out the Car Trade In section.