re: When do you trade in your vehicles?

I've never traded in a vehicle. The last two I have had, I drove them until they are worthless, then I donated them. The one before that, I sold for 2K. The one before that, I drove until it was worthless.

If I thought a big repair would be due soon, and I could get more value now... maybe. Depends on repair costs. I never understood how people can say "oh I think a big repair is coming up" and still get value on the car. Wouldn't the dealership be able to tell it needs repairs as well?