How to Sell or Trade In Your ATV, UTV or Side-by-Side (SxS)
Pre-owned vehicles are in high demand, which is great news for ATV, UTV or Side-by-Side (SxS) owners who are looking to trade up to something new. That said, the task of selling or trading in your off-road vehicle is not always easy or entirely clear—and may even feel a little daunting. We’re here to help. Learn about the factors that affect your trade-in value and how to get the best deal for your ride—or get your trade-in value today.
How to Get the Most Value Out of Your ATV or SxS
Get the most out your off-road vehicle by being prepared. Doing a little legwork ahead of a sale or trade is the best way to ensure your vehicle is in top shape and fully represents its value—so you can get a deal you're happy with. Whether you’re making it shine or making minor repairs, here are ways to boost its curb appeal.
1. Be Sure Your Vehicle Maintenance is Up to Date
If you’ve stayed on top of regular SxS or ATV maintenance, this step is easy. But if your vehicle is due for service, or if you’re behind on service, you’ll want to get it taken care of before you try to trade in an ATV or SxS. Make sure you’ve changed the oil, replaced the air filters, added new tires (if needed) and more.
If you're looking for some ORV maintenance know-how, we have resources to help with that as well. Schedule service at your preferred Polaris dealer to get your vehicle serviced!
2. Make Any Essential Repairs with Properly Fitting SxS or ATV Parts
Wear and tear on an off-road vehicle come with the territory, but tending to some of that before you sell or trade your vehicle could help improve its value. Take the time to touch up scratches, fix dents and replace damaged panels or parts, especially if any damage affects the operation or safety of the vehicle.
3. Clean Your ATV or SxS from Top to Bottom
One of the simplest things you can do to get the most out of your sale or trade is make your ATV or SxS shine. A little elbow grease and a lot of sudsy water from a mild detergent can go a long way toward a healthy shine and a positive outcome. If you’re looking for some great tips on how to tackle the mud and grime that results from off-roading, check out this article: Cleaning Your UTV After a Day of Trail Riding.
4. Determine Whether to Sell or Trade in
Now that your off-road vehicle is ready to go, research whether you'd like to sell it or trade it in at a local dealer and upgrade your ride. We've put together a list of a few things to consider when making this decision.
Pros and Cons of Selling vs. Trading in Your Off-Road Vehicle
Selling an Off-Road Vehicle
PROS
- Control Over Sale: You can set your own price and negotiate directly with buyers.
- Wider Audience: Using online marketplaces, you can sometimes reach a broader audience, potentially leading to a quicker sale.
CONS
- Time and Effort: Selling privately can be time-consuming and requires effort in marketing, responding to inquiries, and negotiating prices.
- Financial Risks: There are risks such as fluctuating market values and potential scams.
- Paperwork: Handling all the paperwork and ensuring a secure transaction can be challenging.
Trading in an Off-Road Vehicle
PROS
- Convenience: Trading in is often quicker and more straightforward, with the dealer handling most of the process.
- Immediate Transaction: You can complete the transaction immediately and apply the trade-in value towards your new purchase.
- Potential Tax Benefits: In some regions, trading in can offer tax benefits, such as a reduction in sales tax based on the trade-in value.
CONS
- Limited Options: Trading in ties you to the dealership where you're making your new purchase.
- Potentially Higher New Vehicle Price: Dealerships often provide attractive trade-in values, which can impact the overall pricing of your upgrade offer. Know your vehicle's worth and the market value of other vehicles to get the most from the trade-in process.
How to Trade in and Upgrade Your Off-Road Vehicle
You've done your research and determined that you want to trade in for an upgraded model. What's next? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you easily navigate the trade-in process, so you can get back on the trail in a brand-new ATV or side-by-side.
Step 1: Find your SxS or ATV's value
Find out what your vehicle's worth. Knowing its value sets the stage for a fair trade. Actual trade-in value offer will determined by your local authorized dealer.
Step 2: Research your new off-road vehicle.
What’s your next dream ride? Explore models or use our Help Me Choose tool to find the best fit for you.
Step 3: Contact a local dealer
They’ll help make your trade happen. Dealers are always looking for used inventory.
Step 4: Explore financing and payment options
Figure out the best way to pay for your new ride. Your dealer can help here, too.
Step 5: Pull together necessary paperwork
Be prepared with all necessary documents—like registration, title and service records. Also be sure to check with your local or state government regarding title transfers for off-road vehicle sales.
Step 6: Complete your trade in and upgrade your off-road vehicle
Sign papers, shake hands and hit the trails in your new side-by-side or ATV.
