How Our Trade-in Appraisal Process Works | INFINITI of Boerne

You’re ready to buy your next INFINITI, but you want to understand what your current vehicle is worth as a trade-in. At INFINITI of Boerne, we’ve built a straightforward appraisal process that’s transparent, fair, and respects your time. No surprises. No games. Just honest assessment.

The Appraisal Starts with Information

Before we even look at your vehicle, we gather basic information: make, model, year, mileage, trim level, and general condition. This gives us context for the detailed inspection that follows. We also pull the vehicle’s history using Carfax or AutoCheck to understand its maintenance record and any accident history.

Our team begins with a conversation about your vehicle’s condition. You know it better than anyone. If there are known issues, specific maintenance you’ve done, or particular strengths, tell us. This context helps us accurately assess value.

The Detailed Inspection

Now we look at everything.

Mechanical Systems

We run a comprehensive diagnostic check. Engine performance, transmission function, suspension components, brake system, cooling system, electrical systems, and steering all get evaluated. We listen for unusual noises, check fluid levels and condition, and verify that all systems operate as designed.

Exterior and Paint

We examine the body for dents, dings, rust, and paint condition. We check all four corners, the roof, doors, and trunk. We look for signs of repainting or accident repair. Paint depth gauges help us detect refinishing work. Every cosmetic detail matters.

Interior Condition

Seats, carpeting, dashboard, electronics, and upholstery get evaluated. We check functionality of power windows, locks, sunroof, climate control, and infotainment systems. We assess cleanliness and wear. A well-maintained interior is immediately apparent.

Tire and Wheel Condition

Tread depth, damage, age, and wear patterns all matter. We check for uneven wear (a sign of alignment or suspension issues) and verify that tires meet safety standards.

What Affects Your Trade-in Value

Three factors dominate your appraisal value.

• Mileage: The primary value driver. Higher mileage reduces value. A vehicle with 120,000 miles is worth significantly less than an identical model with 80,000 miles.
• Condition: A well-maintained, accident-free vehicle with good service history appraises higher than a neglected one with mechanical issues.
• Market Demand: Popular models and colors hold value better than less desirable configurations. The current market for your vehicle type affects value too.

We use multiple valuation resources to ensure accuracy. We cross-reference Kelley Blue Book, NADA Guides, and market data to arrive at fair, defensible value. This isn’t guesswork. It’s data-driven assessment.

Service History Matters

We review your maintenance records. Did you keep up with scheduled service? Oil changes, filter replacements, and major services on time show you cared for the vehicle. Missing maintenance raises concerns about hidden mechanical issues. A vehicle with detailed service records appraises higher.

The Appraisal Takes About 45 Minutes

We don’t rush. A thorough appraisal takes time. You’re welcome to watch, ask questions, or wait in our lounge. We have complimentary coffee, water, and refreshments. Many customers use this time to look at our new INFINITI inventory or work on their phones. You won’t feel like you’re being forgotten.

You Get a Written Appraisal

When the inspection is complete, we provide a detailed written appraisal showing the vehicle’s assessed value and condition notes. This document becomes your trade-in offer. If you decide to trade with us, this value is locked in and applied to your new INFINITI purchase.

No Obligation to Trade

Many customers come in for an appraisal just to understand their vehicle’s value before making buying decisions. That’s completely fine. There’s no obligation to trade with us. We’ll appraise, we’ll provide the documentation, and you can use that information however you choose.

Applying Your Trade-in Credit

If you decide to move forward, your trade-in value becomes a credit against your new INFINITI purchase price. The transaction is clean and straightforward. We handle all paperwork, title transfer, and logistics.

As the first INFINITI Dealer of Excellence in Texas by JD Power 2026, we handle these details with transparency and integrity. We’ve earned Best of the Best Car Dealer in Boerne from local readers because we don’t try to game customers on trade-in values. Fair assessment is how we build long-term relationships. We’ve also earned the INFINITI Award of Excellence, which reflects our commitment to service excellence at every step.

Schedule Your Appraisal

Ready to find out what your vehicle is worth? Call (210) 477-1775 to schedule an appraisal. It takes 45 minutes and comes with no strings attached. Come see us at 32275 Interstate 10, Boerne, TX 78006. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9AM to 7PM, and Saturday, 9AM to 6PM.

Frequently Asked Questions