Yep, that's how it works. You got a good deal on trade in. I've sold 2x to CarMax and they came in above trade in but below retail each time.

 

In my exp with carmax if you have a decent car they usually come close to private party value. Dealers normally try to offer trade in or as close to wholesale as someone will take. Trying to make money on both cars.

 

That's my experience too.

 

But what condition do they use? I felt my car was in outstanding condition but dealer was using average condition to compare on Edmunds. If your car is in great condition it's also easy to sell on craigslist and you get a lot more. I got 164% more than dealers second offer via craigslist. Buyer emailed 10 minutes after it was posted and purchased after 15 minute test drive.

 

My last car sold for 30K. I'd never put that on CL.

 

I wish I knew about car max before I traded in my car. Its not like i got screwed or anything but it would have been nice to have gotten a little bit more. You live and learn I guess.

 

Buyer for that much money would be harder to find.

 

You did it right given the year of the Acura imo. Amazing the brand equity and Acura has -- people just want them due to their excellent rep for reliability.