Find out if you have positive equity, are breaking even, or are underwater on your current vehicle — and see how it affects the amount you need to finance on your next car.
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Trade-in equity is the difference between what your current car is worth (the dealer's trade-in offer) and what you still owe on it (your loan payoff amount). If your car is worth more than you owe, you have positive equity — that amount acts as part of your down payment on the next vehicle.
If you owe more than your trade is worth, you have negative equity (also called being "underwater" or "upside down"). This negative balance is typically rolled into your new loan — increasing your financed amount and your monthly payment. Use our Negative Equity Calculator to see exactly how this impacts your next loan.
Dealer trade-in offers are typically 10–20% below private party value. Before accepting any offer, check your vehicle on free valuation tools and get offers from multiple dealers. California BHPH dealers often accept trade-ins as all or part of a down payment — make sure you have the title in your name before trading in.
Results are estimates for planning purposes only. Trade-in offers vary by dealer, vehicle condition, and market. Verify all figures with your dealer before completing a transaction.