When you trade in a car, you are essentially selling it to the dealership and using the proceeds of the sale as a credit towards the purchase of a new vehicle.
The dealership will want to make sure that you are the legal owner of the car before accepting it as a trade-in. If the car is not in your name, this can create complications.
It is possible to trade in a car like this, but doing so may not always be an available option or the best route to take. In most cases, you’ll need to get the car registered in your name before attempting to trade it in.
How to Trade In a Car That’s Not in Your Name
There are a few different ways to go about trading in a car that’s financed by someone else. These options may not all be available to you at all times, so it’s important to talk with a dealer or finance manager to understand your options.
- Transfer the title of the car to your name
- Purchase the car from the owner before trading it in
- Discuss options with the dealer to show proof of ownership
Transfer the title of the car to your name
One option is to transfer the car into your name before trading it in. This typically involves having the current owner prove ownership of the car with the title or registration and paying any applicable fees.
Once the car is in your name, you can trade it in as you would any other vehicle.
To do this, you’ll need to go through your state’s motor vehicle department and fill out some paperwork. The process varies from state to state, so be sure to check with your local department for specific instructions.
This process may also vary depending on if there is an open lien on the vehicle or if it has already been paid off. With an existing open auto loan, you’ll need to pay off the loan and provide a lien termination document before being able to transfer the vehicle, which may be a bit counterproductive. This could be especially difficult if you have negative equity.
Purchase the car from the owner before trading it in
If you decide to purchase the car from someone else, you’ll need to complete the necessary sale paperwork and register it in your name once the sale is complete.
For a vehicle that does not have an active car loan, this process is much easier. At that point it can be considered a private party sale and be for the agreed upon price, provided it meets any state requirements.
Discuss options with the dealer to show proof of ownership
If you are unable to transfer the car into your name, you may still be able to trade it in. However, this will depend on the dealership and the specific circumstances.
Some dealerships may be willing to accept a trade-in from someone who is not the legal owner of the car, if you’re able to provide the right documentation from all parties including a clear title.
It is important to discuss your options with the dealership to determine the best approach.
Who Would Trade a Car that Isn’t in Their Name?
In the majority of trade-ins, the owner of the current vehicle would be the same person purchasing the new one. However, there may be a few instances where the new car is intended to be in someone else’s name. This could include parents trading in a car to assist their child or a family member that has an extra vehicle.
The reason behind most people attempting to do this is to give the new car buyer a head start with their purchase. The value of the trade-in would be put towards their new loan, which will lower their amount financed, reduce the amount required for a down payment, and can help increase their approval chances.
Is Trading in a Vehicle in Someone Else’s Name Worth it?
It is also worth considering whether trading in a car that is not in your name is the best option for you. It may not be feasible to purchase the car privately or transfer it before attempting to trade it in.
Review your vehicle needs, credit, and financial situations carefully when considering trading in a vehicle or taking out a new car loan. There are other financing options that may be a better alternative, such as subprime financing for those with credit issues or low income car loans.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to consult with your state’s motor vehicle department and dealership before proceeding. They can provide more information about transferring or selling a car that’s not in your name, and they can also help ensure that everything goes smoothly.