I have a 04 acura TL, I am planning on trading it in for a 08 G37 coupe. my question is how much money do I put in to repairing the acura prior to trade-in, or am I throwing money out the window?

The interior is in great shape but there are alot of dings on the doors. the windshield has a small crack. I assume the windshield should be fixed, but the dings are on most of the left side doors and panels.
also, does it pay to have it detailed- I would think so?
thanks for the advise.

 

If your trading it in, don't bother, the dealer can give two $hits if the car is clean or not.....I found that out with my I35.

If you plan on selling it privately, depending on the value of the car, it may pay to have it detailed, but not overdone....People will get suspicious if it looks too good to be true... I have found a car maintained probably sells better than a nice appearance....

Some states will not pass a car for inspection if the windshield is broken, so that my be the main concern for you....

 

^Like he said don't bother if you are going to trade it in the dealer is mostly concerned with the motor and as long as it looks decent. Also you do want to get the window fixed.

 

If you're selling it privately, appearance does make a big difference. Small dings on the doors, I wouldn't worry about but at least washing and waxing it yourself can fetch your asking price. If you're trading it in, get an oil change and wash it. You know you won't be getting top dollar on the trade in so save that money. Dings are big money to remove and you will not recoup your money.

 

Thanks for the advise. It makes sense NOT to waste more money on fix up if I'm just going to trade it in. I just don't have time to hassle with a private sale.