How We Appraise Your Vehicle
Get a fair and transparent appraisal for your car, truck, or SUV. We use CARFAX® History-Based Value, relying on actual sale prices and vehicle-specific history for an accurate valuation.
Understanding Your Vehicle's Condition
To help you understand how we assess vehicles, here’s a breakdown of common condition categories. An honest assessment ensures a smoother appraisal process.
Excellent
Vehicles in excellent condition are rare, typically representing a small percentage of used cars.
Looks new, in excellent mechanical condition.
No paint or bodywork ever done; no reconditioning needed.
Engine compartment is clean, free of fluid leaks.
Free of rust. Body and interior are free of wear or visible defects.
Tires match and are like new.
Clean title history; will pass safety inspection.
Complete and verifiable service records.
Good
Most well-maintained privately owned vehicles fall into this category.
Free of major mechanical problems; may have minor cosmetic defects.
Paint and bodywork may require minor touch-ups.
Engine compartment may have minor, easily fixable leaks.
Minimal or no cosmetic rust.
Body may have minor scratches or dings; interior has minor blemishes characteristic of normal wear.
Tires match and have at least 50-75% tread remaining.
Clean title history; will pass safety inspection.
Most service records available.
Fair
Vehicles in fair condition have some cosmetic defects and may require some mechanical repairs. Over 80% of vehicles often fall into this category.
Some cosmetic defects that require repairing/replacing.
May need some mechanical repairs, but is in reasonable running condition.
Paint and bodywork may require refinishing or body repair.
Engine compartment has leaks and may require a tune-up or repairs.
May have some repairable rust damage.
Body has dings, chips, or scratches; interior has substantial wear, possibly small tears.
Tires may need replacing or may not match.
Needs servicing but is still in reasonable running condition.
Clean title history. A few service records might be available.
Poor
Vehicles in poor condition have significant mechanical and/or cosmetic defects. Trade-in value is minimal, and dealerships may not retail these vehicles.
Severe mechanical and/or cosmetic defects.
Poor running condition, or may not be drivable.
Problems that may not be readily fixable (e.g., damaged frame, severe rust-through).
Branded title (salvage, flood, etc.) or unsubstantiated mileage often places a vehicle in this category.
Exterior has significant damage, dents, rust.
Interior is heavily worn, damaged, or has strong odors.
Major components (engine, transmission) may need extensive repair or replacement.
Why Trust Us To Appraise Your Vehicle
At our Lincoln Dealership, transparency is key. That's why we partner with CARFAX® to determine your vehicle's trade-in value. The History-Based Value considers:
Refined based on the value of similar vehicles located in St.Catharines, Ontario.
Estimate based on trusted Canadian data.
Potential dealer offer to purchase your vehicle.
Ready to Get Started?
Frequently Asked Trade Questions
What is the best way to sell my car for cash?
Our process is fast and safe, and you get a current market-value offer
How do I protect myself when selling a car?
Understand your vehicle's value and the sales process to get the best offer possible.
Does selling a financed car hurt my credit rating?
No, it doesn't. We help with paying off your loan if you accept their offer.
How old should a used car be?
We take all makes and models regardless of condition, and the price reflects the trade-in value.
How long does it take to sell a car?
You could sell your car or truck in 24 hours with us, while other dealers or private sales may take longer.
What increases a car's resale value?
Following the maintenance schedule, providing a CARFAX report, keeping the interior clean, and addressing any damage.
Is it better to sell privately or trade in my car?
Trading in or selling to a dealership offers fair market prices and peace of mind with knowledgeable professionals.
What site gives the most accurate car value?
Most automotive websites using the Canadian Black Book, Canadian Red Book, or Kelley Blue Book provide similar valuations. We rely on Canadian Black Book for our trade-in estimates, and a software that looks at similar vehicles currently listed in the Canadian market for our offers.
What paperwork do I bring to sell my car?
The registration, insurance documents, and maintenance history/warranty info is a bonus.
