Trade-in Question
 

Hey guys, I'm planning on picking up a Z around the end of the year and still debating on the 2010 or 2011 model. I know it may take longer if I go with a 2011 though so we'll see when the time gets closer.

Anyways.. I currently have a '04 G35 coupe which I'll be trading-in when I purchase the Z. However, the G has a two small rock dents (one on the right front fender and one on the right rear quarter panel) and the bottom of the front bumper has some scratches. I thought it'd be better to get this minor damage repaired prior to trading it in, but I've received some pretty ridiculous quotes so far. One was for $2000 and the other over $3000 - this was from a body shop recommend by Infiniti... I understand that the dents have to be smoothed out, painted and blended but still those quotes seem high.

So, when it comes down to trading in the vehicle at the dealership, is it better to have the repairs done ahead of time or let the dealer handle the repairs? I'd imagine they can get it done for a lower price, but they'll also probably use the damage as leverage to screw me on the trade-in. On the other hand, if I get the repairs done myself I'd like to see a return on that investment. If the repair cost isn't balanced out by a much higher trade-in price then I don't think it's worth it. What are your thoughts?

I wouldn't do it. No matter how much you spend the dealer won't rate it as being in "excellent condition", so you're only left with "good condition" either way. If you have it corrected then the dealer will try to penalize you on the fact that the car has had body work done. Save your money. Get kbb value for good condition when you trade in.

well, the only down side to having the repairs done prior to trade in, is, if they have to paint/blend/etc. then the dealer accepting the trade in might think it was in a wreck if they can see any kind of evidence that it's been repainted. i would go get it appraised at a couple dealers first and see if they're even looking at those dents enough. they may want fix the dents themselves.

Thanks for the feedback guys, I appreciate it! At first I thought it was a great idea to fix up the car thinking I'd get a better trade-in price, but the more I thought about it the idea started to sound worse and worse. You helped finalize my decision to leave the car as is... less headache this way anyways. I'm looking forward to joining the Z club!

The way you describe the damage , their shouldn't be any reason to get it fixed. It it's a few scratches under the front facia and a couple rock chips , I would leave it and trade it in.

:iagree:
If you are going to trade it in then don't put any more money in to it. Put that money towards your down payment.

I have traded in a number of my wife's cars with cosmetic damage. The last one being pretty bad. She jackknifed a trailor and put two holes the size of nickels in the bumper. The dealership never said anything about it. They gave me $1k less than what I paid for car a year earlier with 20K less miles. You will be fine trading it in. I'm guessing they won't even look close enough to see your damage.

Good luck and welcome!