Trading in cars isn't the best way to go. You would be better off selling the cars yourself and then buying cheaper cars seperately. Trade in values are very low compared to what you can sell them for on the private market so you would likley lose a couple of thousand dollars per car or more in value on the trade. Also buying cars at the 5 to 8k range come with a whole new set of challanges in terms of reliability so you will need to plan for repairs and please, please have those cars inspected by an independent mechanic before you buy. I would also buy those cars from private parties because you get more car for your money than going through a dealer.
Have you considered refinancing your existing cars to see if you can reduce the payments?
