How to Sell Your Car in Downer’s Grove, IL
With so much to consider when you’re in the process of selling your vehicle, it can be hard to know where to get started and how to go about each step so that you get the best returns. We at Bill Kay Buick GMC want to prepare you for success by sharing this guide on how to properly sell your car!
Gather Your Vehicle Information
Start with the basics. Have your vehicle’s VIN, current mileage, trim level, and a list of any added options or features. If you have service records, bring them with you. A documented history of oil changes, tire rotations, and scheduled maintenance shows that the vehicle has been looked after, which supports a stronger offer. You will also need the title. If you still owe money on the vehicle, bring your lender’s name and an account number or payoff statement. We can contact your lender to confirm the payoff amount and handle the paperwork for you.
Get an Appraisal
You can request an appraisal online or visit our dealership in person. Our Value Your Trade tool takes only a few minutes. Enter your VIN or license plate, answer questions about condition, and submit photos if requested. You will receive an estimated value, which we confirm after an in-person inspection here in Downer’s Grove. Our appraisers review the exterior, interior, tires, and mechanical condition. They also check for open recalls and compare your vehicle against current market data, recent auction results, and local demand. The in-person appraisal usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, which gives you some time to step away to the Downers Grove Park District if another person drove you here. You are welcome to stay with a member of our team and ask questions as they work.
Several factors affect the offer:
- Mileage and overall condition
- Accident history and service records
- Trim level, color, and installed options
- Current demand for your model in our market
Review Your Offer
After the inspection, we present a written offer that explains how we arrived at the number. There is no obligation to accept. If you want time to compare other offers, ask us how long ours stays valid. We can honor an offer for several days or a set mileage allowance, so confirm the terms before you leave. Our offer is not tied to buying a vehicle from us. You can sell your car and walk away with a check, or apply the value toward a new or pre-owned vehicle that you can show off to your friends when you arrive to meet them at the Maple Grove Forest Preserve. If you choose the second option, the trade-in value can reduce the amount you finance.
Complete the Paperwork and Get Paid
Once you accept, we handle most of the paperwork. Bring your title or lien information, a valid photo ID, your current registration, and all keys and remotes. If the vehicle is owned jointly, both owners may need to sign. We will process the title transfer and pay off any remaining loan balance. If the offer exceeds what you owe, you receive the difference. If you owe more than the vehicle is worth, we will explain your options before you sign anything.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us or submit your vehicle details through our website. We will schedule your appraisal at a time that works for you, and you will leave knowing exactly where you stand.
