Is it possible to trade a car in but not buy one?

In general, car dealerships don't accept trade-ins without requiring the customer to purchase another car from them. Trading in a vehicle is a way for dealerships to acquire used cars as part of a sales transaction. While some dealerships might consider it in exceptional circumstances, it is not a common practice. Car dealerships primarily engage in the business of selling and trading vehicles, and trade-ins form an integral part of their inventory management.