CapitalOne Credit Increase question

[Anonymous]

I’ve been working to improve my credit score and recently passed 723 (It’s taken several years). The last less than ideal mark on my report is my average credit age at around 3 years. My question is, specifically:

In the scenario below, is it wise to combine (roll) my younger, higher credit limit, higher APR, but zero balance card into my older, lower credit limit, lower APR card?

Scenario

I have two Capital One cards: the first, a Platinum @ 14.9 APR%, I’ve had for 11 years, the second, a Quicksilver @ 23.9 APR%, I've had for 5 years.

The Platinum was a secured credit rebuilder card and became an unsecured card, several years ago during a CapOne acquisition. I’ve had a really hard time getting any credit increases on that card, though I’ve admittedly not tried for a couple years. It has a credit limit @ $1500 and no rewards program.

The Quicksilver was not a secure card, but has a higher credit limit @ $2000. It has a rewards program, but as I recall it’s not very good.

My assumption is to combine the Quicksilver card into the Platinum, from what I’ve read, I will retain the lower card’s interest rate, but increase its credit limit. I figure having a $3500 limit @ 14.9% APR (with no rewards) is better than $1500 @ 14.9% (with no rewards) and $2000 @23.9% (with crappy rewards. It’s a minimal cash back thing).

My concern is the cards are, respectively, my oldest and third oldest cards, so I’m wondering if it will negatively impact my average credit age and if there’s a formula I can follow to calculate it? (My credit limit will stay the same, but I will be closing one card and eliminating the third oldest card I have).

1. Does it make sense to combine the cards and, if so, in which direction?
2. Will it have a negative impact on my score, affecting my credit age?
3. Can I turn the Platinum into a rewards card and, if so, does it make a difference before / after combining? (Any tips? Do I just ask?)
4. Is there anything else I’m not considering? (I’m basically a noob to managing my credit responsibly)

I really appreciate the help!

[HeavenOhio]

I'd call in and see if the Platinum can be product changed into a Quicksilver. At that point, it would become the better card in all aspects except for its limit.

As far as account age, you have to decide that. Closed accounts can remain on your report for up to ten years. But these cards are both significantly older than your other accounts. It comes down to the practical aspects of combining vs. the minor scoring effect down the road. Which one is more important would be up to you.

Quicksilver's rewards program is fine. At 1.5%, you can often get more back from other products. But nobody beats its flexibility.

[Meanmchine]

AAoA is only 10% of your score.  Dont worry about raising is. Just dont drop it foolishly by opening accounts you dont need

[Shooting-For-800]

I would leave the cards alone and use them one a month for gas or something.

I would apply for a new Venture or QS if your credit is above 700.

I have found that cap one will apply glass ceilings to most average and prime accounts.

It is easier to get a new account that is better with a larger limit than trying to make an older card a better card.

I have opened several new accounts with Cap One after getting declined on a CLI.  

It is weird, but it happens a lot.

Just got a $30k Venture after getting declined on two CLI on very well used and paid accounts with large limits.