While NADA and Kelly Blue Book can be a good guide to trade-in values, the only book that really matters is the checkbook of the dealer who's buying the trade. However, Auto Advisors regularly "shops" the trade among various dealers in our network, to ensure the member receives fair trade value.

While dealers typically inflate the trade in value using rebates or other discounts off the car you're purchasing, we help you determine the actual cash value (ACV). The ACV could be described as the amount the dealer would be willing to pay for your car even if you were not buying a car from them.

What's a Certified Used Car? Why Buy One?

The Certified used car concept was originally created by the manufacturers as a way to drive used car customers to their dealerships, and to justify prices. As a buyer, you need to evaluate if the price and coverage are worthwhile.

"Certified" used cars carry a manufacturer's warranty that takes effect once the original warranty expires. They often work just like a new car warranty, covering a certain number of years or miles, and certain components of the vehicle, but the coverage can vary greatly across manufacturers, so you need to check. While some used cars offered with third-party warranties are sometimes advertised as "certified," they technically are not because the vehicle's manufacturer is not supporting the warranty in any way.

Many advertisements claim that certified vehicles go through a more rigorous inspection process than non-certified vehicles. However, good dealers should always perform a complete inspection and perform whatever service is necessary to ensure that vehicle will be safe and reliable. We stress this among the dealers in the Auto Advisor network.

The attraction to certified used vehicles appears clear - new car warranty benefits at a used car price. But the rules and dollar amounts vary across makes, so check with your Auto Advisor to learn more about warranties and dealer service.