Has the time come to purchase a new car? If so, the time may also be here to get rid of your old vehicle. While some people opt to sell their car by owner before heading to the dealer, others realize that trading it in would be in their best interest.

The more you receive for your trade the less you will pay for your new vehicle. For this reason, you should do whatever it takes to get as much value as possible out of your old vehicle.

1. Give it a thorough cleaning. No matter what make or model you are trading in, you want it to look its best. This means cleaning both the interior and exterior, ensuring that is shines when the used car manager gives it a once over.

Tip: spend a little bit of money to have the car professionally detailed before visiting the dealer. This may be money out of your pocket upfront, but you will likely make it back on the trade.

2. Visit more than one dealer. Just the same as each dealer will offer you a different deal on a new car, the same holds true for your trade. It is a must to visit more than one dealer, finding out how much each one will give you for your old vehicle.

This one step could help you secure hundreds or even thousands more for your trade.

3. Separate the trade and new car transactions. When you allow your sales person to lump the two together, it is easy to become confused and unsure of what is actually taking place.

Negotiate the price of your new car first and then move onto your trade. By keeping the two transactions separate, you will know exactly what you are getting.

When you follow these three tips, you will find yourself getting the most value for your vehicle trade. Subsequently, the price you pay for your new car is going to be less.