Subaru Trade-Ins: Trade In Value, Programs, & What To Know


in Financing and Leasing

We discuss everything related to Subaru trade ins: trade-in value, relevant programs, and trade in do's and don'ts.

Red Subaru in a showroom
Source: Flickr

Subaru is one of the most iconic brands, offering classics like the Forester and Crosstrek. Let’s say you have a Subaru you want to get rid of, but you don’t want to sell it - you want to trade in your vehicle. What do you need to know about the Subaru trade-in process before setting foot in the dealership?

If you’re seeking more information about the Subaru trade-in process, you’re in the right place. The more you understand about the endeavor, the easier it will be to prepare for the trade-in process for your Subaru and if/when it’s correct for your life. Keep reading to learn more about the trade-in value of a Subaru, trade-in assist programs, and other helpful information. 

Do Subarus Have a High Trade-In Value?

Of course, before participating in a Subaru trade-in or even investing in picking a Subaru in the first place. Although Subaru’s value has generally declined over the past few years, Subarus is known for its longevity and durability on the road. They don’t depreciate too quickly and thus can provide a decent trade-in value on the market.

According to iseecars.com, several Subarus come out on top when considering the trade-in value. The Subaru BRZ, Subaru Crosstrek, Subaru Impreza, and Subaru WRX come out on top when considering retaining their value, but all perform decently. These are the champions if you’re looking to invest in a Subaru in the first place with excellent depreciation rates.

As with any machine, no two Subarus are equal when we’re peering at Subaru trade-in value. It’s crucial to perform adequate research through various resources when investing in a vehicle.

What is the Subaru Guaranteed Trade-In Program?

One excellent aspect of investing in a Subaru vehicle is access to the Subaru Guaranteed Trade-In Program. If you purchase from a qualified dealership, Subaru states that they will ensure owners of Subaru vehicles will be able to earn the highest possible sum when they want to trade their vehicle and invest in a new one.

The Subaru Guaranteed Trade-In Program provides the following:

  • Security in a high trade-in value
  • Tailored experience 
  • Cheaper new investment

These are excellent securities for a Subaru to have.

Of course, there are criteria for a Subaru trade-in for this program. The Subaru must be older than the one you’re investing in by at least one year. There is also a maximum mileage depending on the year, vehicle exclusions, and stipulations depending on the condition of the machine. Ensure you check these out before participating in the Trade-In Program.


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What Determines the Trade-In Value of My Car?

Unfortunately, many people head into the dealership with an anticipated value of their car and the answer they get is much lower. If you’re being hit with a disappointing value, it can be a frustrating experience. What factors influence the trade-in value of your Subaru? Is it random or are there actual considerations?

According to marketwatch.com, here are some items that will impact the trade-in value of your machine:

  • Packages and equipment
  • Car’s condition
  • Time of year
  • Trim of the car
  • Mileage
  • Vehicle’s age

These are just a few items that will influence your vehicle’s trade-in value.

It’s never a good idea to go to a dealership for a trade without any idea of how much your vehicle is worth. Perform accurate research or use resources online to make an accurate estimate beforehand to get the best possible deal you can. It will also curb the disappointment of making up a higher number in your head.


ARE SUBARUS RELIABLE?

As a popular option for braving the great outdoors, it’s easy to think that they’re reliable vehicles. Are Subarus reliable?


When Should You Not Trade in Your Car?

Of course, there are multiple options when it’s time to remove a car from your life, from trading it in to selling it to just letting it go for demolition. If you’re not sure what to do, there are two items you can look at to see if trading is a poor choice for your vehicle. 

According to kbb.com, here are some indications you should avoid trading in your Subaru:

  • The vehicle you want has an inflated price
  • Your car is worth less than what you owe

It’s best to keep your vehicle or choose another option in this case.

If you’re already falling into a sinkhole with your current machine, you don’t want to trade it in and transfer that pain to another. If you bought a vehicle during a cheaper value period for a vehicle and there is now inflation, you don’t want to trade in your vehicle for something overpriced.

What Not to Do While Trading in a Car

When heading in for the Subaru trade-in process, there are a few things you should keep in mind to have the best experience. These will ensure you don’t get overwhelmed and will help everything go smoothly along the way.

According to exit5auto.com, here are some frequent issues in the Subaru trade-in:

  • Overestimating the value of the car
  • Not knowing its general value
  • Placing ample money into detailing
  • Not looking at multiple offers

These mistakes can make the endeavor much trickier on your end.

Ensure you get a general idea of the value of your vehicle before heading into the dealership to avoid disappointment and to get the best value. Also, check out multiple offers to get the best, and don’t put too much money into detailing - you’re just trading it in.


HOW LONG DO SUBARUS LAST?

While Subaru has a reputation for reliability, does that also extend to their vehicles’ longevity? How long do Subarus last?


Is Trading in a Subaru Worth It?

We’ve gone over several items surrounding the Subaru trade-in process, from the overall value of a typical Subaru on the market to what to avoid when you’re heading in to trade your vehicle. There is one final question to consider - is it worth it to trade your Subaru vehicle?

So long as you don’t owe more than your car is worth and the vehicle you want doesn’t cost too much, it’s worth it to trade in your Subaru. They are excellent at retaining their value, and the Subaru Guaranteed Trade-In Program helps ensure you get the most money possible for your older machine.



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