Part Exchange Your Car
Upgrade Your Vehicle at EMC Today
Trade In Your Current Car & Drive Away in Your Dream Vehicle from Eastbourne Motoring Centre
At EMC in Eastbourne and Uckfield, we make upgrading to your next car incredibly straightforward with our part exchange service. Simply trade in your current vehicle and use its value toward a brand-new car or quality used vehicle from our extensive showroom stock.
Why spend time and effort selling your car privately when you can part-exchange it with us and drive away in your new car the same day? At Eastbourne Motoring Centre, we've been helping drivers across Sussex upgrade their vehicles for decades - we're here to make your next car purchase refreshingly simple and rewarding.
Get your free part exchange valuation today by calling us on 01323 745350 or by completing the form below ↓
Why Part-Exchange Your Car with EMC?
Part-exchanging your vehicle with EMC means you benefit from a straightforward, hassle-free way to upgrade. As a leading new and used car dealership in East Sussex with plenty of experience, we're experts at appraising vehicles and recognising their true value.
An Instant Deposit for Your Next Car
Your current car's value becomes an instant deposit toward your next vehicle. This reduces the amount you need to finance or pay upfront, making your dream car more affordable and accessible.
Everything Handled in One Place
There's no need to sell your car separately, arrange viewings with strangers, or coordinate timing between selling and buying your next vehicle. We handle both transactions simultaneously, saving you considerable time and hassle.
Drive Away the Same Day
In most cases, you can trade in your current car and drive away in your new vehicle on the same day. No waiting around between selling one car and collecting another - just a seamless, convenient transition.
We Settle Outstanding Finance
Do you still have finance on your current car? That’s no problem! We can settle any outstanding vehicle finance directly with your lender as part of the part-exchange process, removing all the complexity and paperwork from your shoulders.
Fair Market Valuations
Here at EMC, we use the latest industry data and market intelligence to provide competitive car valuations. Our transparent approach means you'll always understand exactly how we've reached your car's value and how it applies to your new vehicle purchase.
A Huge Selection of Vehicles to Choose From
With an extensive range of new and used cars across our Eastbourne and Uckfield showrooms, you'll find the perfect vehicle to suit your needs and budget. From compact city cars to family SUVs, executive estates to efficient hybrids - we've literally got something for everyone.
How Our Part Exchange Process Works
When you part-exchange your vehicle with Eastbourne Motoring Centre, we follow a straightforward four-step process:
Step 1. Choose Your Next Car
Browse our extensive range of new and used vehicles at our Eastbourne or Uckfield showrooms, or right here on our website. Once you’ve found a car you love, let our team know you're interested in a part exchange and we'll get the process started.
Step 2. We Value Your Current Car
We'll assess your current vehicle using industry-leading valuation tools and a comprehensive physical inspection. We consider your car's age, mileage, condition, service history, and current market demand to provide a fair valuation.
Our team will examine:
- Age and mileage
- Full maintenance and service history
- Overall condition (interior and exterior)
- Any additional features or upgrades
- MOT status and history
- Previous ownership and documentation
Step 3. We Apply the Value to Your New Car
Once we've agreed on your part exchange value, we'll deduct this amount from the price of your chosen vehicle from EMC. This reduces the total cost, meaning lower finance payments, a smaller deposit requirement, or less cash needed if you're buying outright.
If you have outstanding finance on your current car, we'll settle this directly with your lender and apply any remaining equity toward your new vehicle.
Step 4. Complete the Purchase & Drive Away
Finally, we'll handle all the paperwork for both transactions - selling your old car and purchasing your new one. In most cases, you can complete everything and drive away in your new car the same day. It really is that simple!
Part Exchange vs Selling Your Car Privately
Many customers wonder whether part exchange through a dealership like us, or a private sale is the better option. To help you come to a decision about the best option for you, here's an honest comparison:
Part Exchange Benefits:
→ Complete convenience - everything is handled in one place
→ No advertising, viewings, or dealing with strangers
→ Immediate use of your car's value toward a new purchase
→ Same-day transition between vehicles
→ We handle all the paperwork and finance settlement (if any remaining)
→ No gap in car ownership
→ Potential tax and finance advantages
→ Safe, secure transaction with an established dealer
Private Sale Considerations:
→ You may achieve a slightly higher price
→ Requires significant time and effort on your part
→ Need to advertise and deal with enquiries
→ Arrange multiple viewings with strangers
→ Allow test drives and negotiate prices
→ Handle payment security concerns
→ Coordinate timing between selling and buying
→ Risk of time-wasters and no-shows
For most people, the convenience, speed, and peace of mind of part-exchanging a car at a local dealership far outweigh any potential price difference. Plus, our competitive valuations and potential savings on your new car purchase often make part exchange the better overall deal.
What Cars We Accept for Part Exchange
We accept a wide range of vehicles for part exchange, including:
Vehicles We Accept:
- Family hatchbacks and saloons
- SUVs, crossovers, and 4x4s
- Estate cars and MPVs
- Sports and performance cars
- Luxury and executive vehicles
- Electric and hybrid vehicles
- Small city cars and compacts
- Light commercial vehicles
Ideal Part Exchange Vehicles:
- Up to 10 years old
- Under 80,000 miles
- Good overall condition
- Full or partial service history
- Valid MOT (preferred but not essential)
- All major makes and models considered
Popular Car and Van Makes We Accept:
Audi • BMW • Fiat • Ford • Honda • Hyundai • Kia • Mercedes-Benz • Nissan • Peugeot • Renault • SEAT • Škoda • Toyota • Vauxhall • Volkswagen • Volvo • and many more…
Got something different to part exchange? Even if your car doesn't perfectly match these criteria, we may still accept it for part exchange - especially if it's a desirable model or in excellent condition. It costs nothing to find out, so get in touch today!
Just Want to Sell Your Car?
If you’re not looking to upgrade your car right now, that's absolutely fine. If you simply want to sell your car for cash without purchasing a replacement vehicle, we offer a dedicated car-buying service too.
With our Sell My Car service, you'll receive the same competitive valuation, same-day payment via bank transfer, and we'll still settle any outstanding finance directly with your lender. There are no admin fees, no obligations, and no pressure to buy another vehicle from us.
Whether you're freeing up some cash, downsizing your household vehicles, or simply no longer need a car, we're here to make the process straightforward and rewarding.
Learn more about selling your car with EMC here.Â
Get Your Free Part Exchange Valuation Today
Are you ready to upgrade your car? Getting your free part exchange valuation is really easy:
Option 1: Online Valuation Form
Complete the quick valuation form on this page with your registration number, current mileage, and vehicle details. We'll provide an initial valuation and help you find the perfect replacement vehicle.
Option 2: Call Us Directly
Speak to our expert EMC team on 01323 745350 for an instant valuation and to discuss which vehicles we have in stock that might suit you.
Option 3: Visit Us in Person
Drop by our Eastbourne or Uckfield showrooms during opening hours. Browse our stock, test drive your favourites, and we'll provide a part exchange valuation while you're here - with a complimentary hot or cold drink while you wait.
Our Showroom Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30am - 6:00pm Â
- Saturday: 8:30am - 5:00pm Â
- Sunday: By appointment only
Find Us At:Â
- EMC Eastbourne - Bourne Street and Whitley Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex Â
- EMC Uckfield - Bellbrook Industrial Estate, Bell Lane, Uckfield, East Sussex
What to Bring for Your Part Exchange Valuation
When you come to see us, please bring:
Essential Documents:
- Vehicle registration document (V5C logbook)
- Valid photo ID (driving licence or passport)
- Proof of address (recent utility bill or bank statement)
- MOT certificate (if applicable)
- Service history and maintenance records
- Both sets of keys (if available)
If You Have Finance Outstanding:
- Finance agreement reference number
- Lender contact details
- Outstanding balance (if known)
If you don't have everything to hand, then please don't worry. Simply contact us and we'll advise on the best way forward.
*All valuations are subject to vehicle inspection and condition. Prices quoted are based on information provided and may be adjusted following physical inspection.*
FAQs
- How does a car part exchange work exactly?
Part-exchanging your car is a straightforward option. You trade in your current car, and the dealership deducts its agreed value from the price of your new vehicle. For example, if you're buying a car for £15,000 and your part exchange is valued at £5,000, you only need to pay the £10,000 difference (either as cash or through finance).Â
Here at Eastbourne Motoring Centre, we handle all the paperwork for both transactions simultaneously, making the entire process simple and convenient.
- Will I get less for my car through part exchange than if I sell it privately?
While private sales can sometimes achieve slightly higher prices, the difference is often smaller than you'd think - and many customers find part exchange is actually the better overall deal when you factor in convenience, time saved, and potential savings on your new car purchase.Â
At EMC, we provide competitive valuations based on current market data, and there are no advertising costs, time lost to viewings, or risks associated with private sales. Plus, you may benefit from dealer incentives and offers that offset any price difference.
- Can I part-exchange if I still have finance on my current car?
Yes, absolutely. Many of our customers still have outstanding finance on their current vehicle. In this case, we can settle the finance directly with your lender as part of the part exchange process.Â
If your car is worth more than the outstanding finance (this is known as positive equity), we'll apply the difference toward your new vehicle. If there's negative equity, we'll discuss options such as rolling this into your new finance agreement or making up the difference. We'll always be transparent about your position and help you find the best solution.
- Do I need an MOT to part-exchange my car?
While having a valid MOT certificate helps with valuation and demonstrates your car has been maintained, it's not essential for part exchange. At EMC, we accept vehicles with or without an MOT. However, cars with a valid MOT and full service history typically command better valuations.Â
If your car has failed its MOT or requires work, we may still accept it for part exchange depending on the make, model, and extent of work needed - the valuation would reflect any necessary repairs.
- Can I part-exchange any car, regardless of age or mileage?
Here at Eastbourne Motoring Centre, we're primarily interested in vehicles up to 10 years old with under 80,000 miles in good condition, as these are most suitable for resale. However, we consider each vehicle individually.Â
If your car is older, has higher mileage, or is a particularly desirable model, we may still accept it. The best approach is to contact us with your vehicle details - we'll be honest about whether we can accept it and what value we can offer.
- How long does the part exchange process take?
In most cases, you can complete the entire part exchange and drive away in your new car on the same day. The process typically takes around 2 to 4 hours, including valuation, test drive, paperwork, and handover. If you have finance to settle, this might add an extra day or two while we liaise with your lender.Â
If you're part-exchanging for a vehicle that needs preparing or isn't in stock, we'll arrange a convenient collection date once everything's ready.
- What documents do I need for part exchange?
When bringing your car in for a part-exchange, you'll need the V5C registration document (logbook) in your name, a valid photo ID (driving licence or passport), proof of address from the last three months, and ideally your service history and MOT certificate. If you have both sets of keys, please bring them along.Â
For financed vehicles, you'll also need your finance agreement details. If you're missing any documents, contact us - we can often still proceed but may need to make alternative arrangements or adjust the valuation accordingly.
- How do you calculate my car’s part exchange value?
We use industry-leading valuation tools that consider current market data, recent sales, and your car's specific details, including age, mileage, condition, specification, and demand. We then physically inspect your vehicle to assess its actual condition, any damage or wear, service history, and overall presentation.Â
Our valuation reflects what we could realistically retail your car for, minus our costs for preparation, warranty, and margin. We'll always explain how we've reached the valuation so you understand the figure clearly.
- Can I part-exchange at your Uckfield branch and collect my new car from Eastbourne?
Absolutely. While we operate from two locations, we're one business and can easily facilitate part exchanges across both sites. You can have your vehicle valued at either showroom and collect your new car from whichever location is most convenient for you. If your chosen new car is at a different site, we can often arrange to have it transferred, or you're welcome to visit the other location. Just let us know what works best for you.
- What happens if my car is worth more than the vehicle I want to buy?
If your part exchange value exceeds the price of your chosen vehicle, we'll simply refund you the difference via bank transfer. For example, if your car is valued at £12,000 and you're purchasing a vehicle for £10,000, we'll transfer £2,000 to your account after completing both transactions. This scenario is less common but does happen, particularly when trading down to a smaller or older vehicle.