How to Trade in a Car That is Not Paid Off

Excited Couple Reviewing Trade in Offer with Salesman

If you are in the market for a new vehicle around Cherry Hill, you may be interested in trading in your current car. While the process is pretty simple and straightforward if that vehicle is already paid off, it can be a bit more complex if you are still paying on the loan. Wondering how to trade in a car you still owe on? The finance experts at Nissan of Turnersville explain how to trade in a car that is not paid off below.

Do You Have Positive or Negative Equity? 

Before you learn how to trade in a car that is not paid off, you need to know if you have positive or negative equity on your vehicle loan. 

  • Positive equity: your car is worth more than what you still owe
  • Negative equity: your car is worth less than what you still owe 

If you have positive equity, then you’re in the most ideal position. Trading in your vehicle should still be a pretty simple process. If this is the case, you can trade in your current car without owing more on the loan. You may even have money left over that can help cover the cost of your next car from us. 

However, if you have negative equity, things may be trickier. Let’s take a closer look at how to trade in a car you still owe on with negative equity. 

Trading in a Car with Negative Equity

You have a few different options available to you if you have negative equity on your current vehicle. 

  • Make up the difference you still owe after accounting for the trade-in price. If you happen to have the spare cash available, this is the best choice. 
  • Transfer the amount you still owe over to a new loan. Keep in mind that this option increases your monthly payment, and you are technically still paying for a car you no longer own. This means you are also upside-down on your new loan. However, If you are unable to keep up with your current car payments and you are downsizing with a cheaper car, this is definitely a viable option. 

Learn More About How to Trade in a Car You Still Owe On Today

If you still have questions about how to trade in a car that is not paid off, reach out to the team at Nissan of Turnersville today. We would be more than happy to answer any questions you have about auto financing

 

More from Nissan of Turnersville

  • Is the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder a Good Family SUV?

    Shop New Nissan Pathfinder Inventory See New Nissan Specials If you’re shopping for a three-row SUV in Turnersville, NJ, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder stands out as a strong choice for families who prioritize safety, interior space, and long-term value. Available at Nissan of Turnersville, the Pathfinder blends advanced driver-assistance technology, flexible seating, and capable performance…

  • Fall Car Care Tips: How to Prepare Your Nissan for New Jersey’s Cooler Weather

    Schedule Nissan Service See Nissan Service Specials Why is Fall Car Care Important for Nissan Drivers in New Jersey? As temperatures dip, Nissan of Turnersville reminds drivers that seasonal maintenance is essential for safe, efficient driving. Fall is perfect for preparing your Nissan Altima, Rogue, Sentra, Pathfinder, or Murano for cooler weather and unpredictable road…

  • Nissan is #1 in J.D. Power New-Vehicle Quality

    Shop New Nissan Vehicles Schedule a Test Drive What Does It Mean to Be #1 in J.D. Power New-Vehicle Quality? At Nissan of Turnersville, we’re proud to celebrate Nissan’s recognition as #1 in J.D. Power New-Vehicle Quality. This milestone reflects the commitment to craftsmanship, engineering excellence, and long-term dependability. Whether you’re shopping for a new…

Get Directions

3400 Route 42, Turnersville, NJ, 08012
Nissan of Turnersville 39.728534, -75.031140.