Thinking of trading 5-lug for 4WD - negotiation tips?

I'm moving to the sticks and am considering trading my 2011 base/access cab for 4WD. I don't want to get totally hosed if I decide this route. Any tips for trading a relatively new truck for another new truck?

 

Be prepared to walk away if you don't think you're getting the best deal out of it. Standing up and walking out is a pretty powerful message to the salesperson because they know if you leave you may not come back. Shopping for vehicles at the end of the month or end of the year works out well. If you're looking at a 2011, wait until they start bringing 2012s onto the lot and then negotiate on a 2011. Shopping during foul weather actually worked for me a few times. The reason being, not many people go car shopping when the weather stinks so you end up getting much more attention from the sales manager, the person actually approving the deal. I bought mine in the middle of a big snow storm and the sales manager himself actually worked the whole deal. I didn't have to wait for the salesman to present every offer and wait for a decision.

 

I don't think you can avoid a loss. The dealer always comes out on top and will always under value your trade in.