Trade-In Vehicle Appraisal

Excellent
A vehicle in excellent condition is free of mechanical or cosmetic damage and has a clean title history. It should pass smog inspection and require no reconditioning. The engine should be meticulously maintained with no leaks or missing parts. Exterior paint is shiny and free of scratches, dings and rust; interior materials are also in like-new condition. Tires and any aftermarket parts are properly matched to the vehicle and in like-new condition.

Fair
A vehicle in good condition has no major mechanical problems, a clean title history and few if any cosmetic blemishes. Rust damage should be minimal at worst, and tires and aftermarket add-ons should be properly matched to the vehicle and show minimal wear. Most late-model, consumer-owned cars are in good condition and will require minor reconditioning to be sold at retail value.

Good
A vehicle in fair condition will require professional mechanical, body, paint and/or interior repair work, but can be safely driven and is assumed to have a clean title history. Tires will probably need to be replaced, and repairable rust damage is common. Vehicles in fair condition will typically require significant reconditioning and can vary widely in value.

Poor
A vehicle in poor condition has major mechanical and/or cosmetic damage that may not be easily repaired. Significant rust damage and/or a damaged frame are common problems, and the vehicle may have a salvage or flood title on its history report. Due to potentially serious problems, a vehicle in poor condition may not be safe to drive.