They look over your car top to bottom, drive it, they may also
have a mechanic look at it. Basically they are buying your car
to resell for a profit. They have a dealer black book and will
determine a price based on condition and marketability. Now
it is your car, so before you go, decide what its worth to you.
Also, decide what the car you are buying is worth to you. Its
best to think all of this over prior to being at the dealership.
You can make a level headed decision much easier outside
the dealer showroom. Also keep in mind each car, yours and
theirs, each have a separate value. Even though the dealer will
probably give you a trade difference price. Make sure in your
mind, you know what the price you are selling for and what
price you are buying for. The more opinionated or inflexible
you are on price, the better. Its your deal don't let them
control what you will pay. Also get pre-approved financing
from your bank before you go. Keep financing separate from
the deal. Dealers like to blurr the deal with monthly payments.
If you feel uncomfortable at anytime, tell the dealer, you
want to think or get another persons opinion. Be firm and
get the heck outta there. Good Luck!
The recipient of your car will look at the year, make, model, overall condition, mileage and blue book value of your car. They will give you the lowest dollar amount possible for it and take that out of the price of the car you intend to purchase.