When can a customer's trade-in vehicle on a financed deal be sold?

A customer's trade-in vehicle on a financed deal can be sold only when financing has been approved and the contract binding has been signed. This is important because the completion of the financing process and the signing of a binding contract establish the legal agreement between the buyer and the dealer. Until these steps are finalized, the transaction is not secure, and the dealer cannot proceed with selling the trade-in vehicle.

The process protects both the dealer and the customer by ensuring that all financial obligations are clear and settled before any assets are transferred. Selling the vehicle before the financing agreement is completed could lead to complications if the deal falls through or the financing is later denied. This requirement underscores the importance of having a solid contractual foundation in place to govern the trade and associated financing.