How to Get Prices on Used Vehicles

You should not shop for a used vehicle until you have done some price research. You won't know how much to offer a seller or whether a stated price is good or bad if you haven't compared similar vehicles. There are several ways to do this. You should use every possible method because used car prices can vary considerably based on the vehicle's condition and location. Then average out the prices you find so you'll have a foundation to use while shopping for a used vehicle.

Instructions

1

Calculate a price through Kelley Blue Book. Its website lets you do this online for free. This is a widely accepted baseline for used vehicle values. You will be able to choose any make and model of used car, including options, and specify the condition to get the most accurate price.

2

Compare vehicles on sales sites such as AutoTrader and other sources of used-car listings with the Kelley Blue Book value. Sellers will often negotiate down from the total listed, but you'll get a feel for the car's value in your particular region.

3

Look for similar cars at your local dealerships. Many car dealers make this easy by listing their used car inventory online, including prices, the Edmunds car research site states. Most dealers will negotiate so smart buyers pay less than the listed price, but you will have basic information. Also look at the CarMax website, which lists a firm, no-negotiation price.

4

Average the prices you found through your research to get the price the used vehicle sells for in your area. Remember that is can still vary based on the passage of time, which will bring down the price, and a particular car's condition since a well-maintained, low-mileage vehicle will go for more money.