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Real-World Trade-In Values

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Comments

  • rroyce10rroyce10 Member Posts: 9,332
    .... good guess ..............

    Terry :P
  • rroyce10rroyce10 Member Posts: 9,332
    .... ** looked it over pretty close (my brother won't buy cars by himself anymore - long story) and other than the decent respray of the front bumper cover it looked OK. Didn't look like even the front fenders had been touched. Since I've got your attention, such as it is, any chance you could give me an idea what the guy has into it? Carsmack says he bought it 9/13/05 (was that a Friday?) at an auction in the San Fran area. VIN ends in 616680.
    Thanks,
    Jason
    ==========================

    9/13 .....? .. 666, Aphrodites child....? .... did his head spin around and cough-up green stuff while he was showin' ya the car ..?? .. hmmmm.

    He probably has all of $7,500 in it if he's had it since the early days of September .... I have a stupid feelin' that $7,5/$7,9 will get it home ......

    good luck and let me know .............



    Terry.
  • iamhungryiamhungry Member Posts: 3
    i was wondering if it was worth it to buy a 2000 sunfire, almost perfect exterior becuz faded front bumper, perfect interior, 102000 miles. It will cost $650 w/ a head gasket replacement for 500-700$, with a total of around 1150?
  • Terry,

    I want to trade in a Passat for a new Lexus. Can you give me an idea what I might get for it on a trade in or perhaps a private sale?

    Thanks :)

    Dallas, TX
    1999 VW Passat GLS sedan
    4 door sedan
    2.8L V6 5-spd
    2WD
    101,000 mi - Texas highway miles
    Forest Green (there is small three inch scratch on the hood; I have a dent repair guy coming in to fix that and two door dings)
    Cloth tan interior
    Moon roof, alloy wheels, wood trim finish, 6 CD changer in trunk, Condition.
    The car is very clean, also had it shampooed recently,
    New tires (less than 1000 miles)
    New battery (four months)
    Dealer maintained and serviced at dealer recommended intervals
    No damage, accidents except minor scratch described above and two small door dings
    Cruise control works intermittently
    Driver side rear door does not lock/unlock automatically
  • rroyce10rroyce10 Member Posts: 9,332
    ...... Research ....? ... I need to call my ex- Mother-law for this one ....

    Good description - tanks.

    In the land of the Ka-boys .....

    We have a 99 VW Passat GLS, we got the V6, it's a handshaker, the miles are tall, it's a 2wd, we got the no-sale green thing going on, no hydes, we got the hole in the roof, it's a handshaker, rubber is new, locks gave up, you say the service is 100% and the guy is coming out to fix the the dings ........ well, the handshaker ain't going to help it and the miles aren't your friend ... if it looks/feels and drives like 50k, the air blows cold and they don't catch the lock .. trade side, in and around the mid/tall $3's, maybe the low low low $4's on a good day ...... a great vehicle down Retail Rd, super detail, a great Ad and: $6,900 *asking* and wave bye bye at the first $5,9/$6,5 .....

    Good luck and let me know ........



    Terry.
  • rroyce10rroyce10 Member Posts: 9,332
    .. **What should I expect to get on a trade for my 2004 Corvette?

    Florence, SC
    2004 Corvette Coupe 2dr with body color targa top
    7000 miles
    Silver exterior/ light gray interior
    Excellent condition interior and exterior/garage kept/no scratches,dings, etc. - no accidents or repairs
    Tires show no wear
    options include polished wheels, body side moldings, memory package, twilight sentinel, electrochromic mirrors , heads up display, power telescoping & manual tilt steering column
    Thanks
    ===============================

    It's been a little chilly up there in SC ..

    Sounds like it might be a nice one ...... we got auto, the miles are low, the color is right, we have the Polish wheels, HID and you say it's been garaged and it's in nice shape with no Maaco and no paint by numbers .... if it's as nice as you think it is, then trade side in and around the super tall $31's low/mid $32's, might get real lucky and see a dealer stagger towards the $33 figure, maybe ..... the loooow miles, location, the auto and the right color combo save this one ..... what's the pay-off ...?



    Terry.
  • teveteve Member Posts: 5
    Thanks Terry,

    Car is paid off. I was hoping for $33 and based on what you just said, maybe I can get it.

    Teve
  • jeffkieljeffkiel Member Posts: 48
    Location: Raleigh, NC
    Year/Make/Model: '99 Honda CR-V EX
    Body Style: 4dr
    Engine: 1.9l (I believe), 5 spd *manual*
    Driveline: AWD
    Mileage: 99,500
    Color: Green, blue cloth interior
    Major Options: Standard EX stuff
    Condition: Fair to good. Small ding on hood, paint looks good. Wheels are flaking (see it all of the time on these). Interior is avg for age, not hovered in, but not filthy.
    Tires: ~5000 mi on brand new Mich Pilots
    Brakes: Just serviced, new pads and rotors
    Maintenance: Oil every 5k, 90K service (timing belt, water pump, etc.) done.
    Other: This is where it gets ugly ;). Rearended another vehicle at ~40mph, no frame or engine damage, replaced front fenders, hood, grill, etc. Repair looks near perfect to my eyes (got it done at same place that does BMW/Lexus work), everything lines up really well.

    Looking to trade for an '06 CRV...wife really likes 'em! No payoff...
  • woodywwwoodyww Member Posts: 1,806
    I'm just curious, as I always wanted a Vette......how much did you pay for this bad boy, & why are you selling ("got it out of your system", too impractical, or?)? Also, I'd be curious to know from Terry how the auto. or stick affects resale on a Corvette, but he may be busy with dog dancing lessons or something.....

    thanks, woody
  • robbiegrobbieg Member Posts: 350
    Terry

    Thinking about trading in the following car in Pittsburgh.
    1999 New GTI GLS
    4 cyl.
    69,000
    5 speed
    Red with Black and Red Cloth interior
    Okay condition. Tires match and are in okay shape. Been parked on the street for the life of the car so there are some scratches. Also, the rear bumper is pressed in about an 1/8 of an inch. There also are what I would like to call "VW issues", a tempermental rear wiper, an airbag light that came on (apparently it is an $800 fix), a small rust bubble is starting to form under the rear drivers side window (going to the dealer tomorrow for a price quote) and a starter that makes a grinding noise when you start it (however it starts every time).

    Thanks for your help.

    P.S. In hindsight, I should have bought the Civic Si.
  • djm5djm5 Member Posts: 3
    Terry-

    Went and test drove one of the wagons I saw on the internet. It is metallic grey w/black leather interior, good condition aside from a few minor scratches. new Pirellis, premium package, cold weather package.

    It's listed as precertified on BMW's website, but not on the dealer's (it was before I drove it and started talking price.) About 40,000 miles.

    They had it listed on sale for 26 or 27...and I told the rep I'd pay 24. He told me they'd call me later(He also said it had been on the lot for a while). I started to think maybe I should be more practical and buy a cheaper car - maybe a volvo wagon,. I called the rep and said I was no longer interested. The dealership called today and wants me to come in to talk numbers.

    how low do you think I can get them? i can pay cash or finance.

    thanks!
  • 28firefighter28firefighter Member Posts: 9,819
    Location: Just outside Philly
    Year/Make/Model: 2003 Audi Allroad
    Body Style: Wagon
    Engine: 2.7T V6 AUTO
    Driveline: Quattro
    Mileage: 45,000 miles
    Color: Black over Black/Grey Two-Tone Leather

    Major Options: Upgraded Wheels, Sunroof, Wood inside, Bose Stereo, Thule Bike Rack, Xenon Headlights...Basically Every option available except NAV

    Condition:
    Interior and Exterior are in good shape, a couple minor scratches from the Mid-Atlantic winters, but nothing major. Interior is clean, seats look hovered in. All the car needs is a wash to be frontline ready.

    Brakes and Tires are all fine.

    Car is meticulously serviced, and has been serviced on the Audi recommended intervals and all recommended work has been done. Have all service records, has been serviced at the same dealer we purchased from.

    We bought in Summer '04 as a CPO, is still under the 4yr/50,000 mile original warranty, and then has an additional 2yr/24,000 mile CPO warranty when that expires.

    Other: We are the 2nd owners, car has been maintained regularly at the Audi dealer and looks great. Unfortunately, I am not so confident about it mechanically. It makes a thunking noise when stopping or turning that the Audi dealer we purchased from and get it serviced at cannot seem to reproduce, even after going for a ride with us in the car and pointing it out. Have taken it to two other dealers with the same results, and have service records to prove they were unable to reproduce it. I'm sure this will reflect poorly when we go to trade or sell it.

    Could you give me Trade-In and Retail values for this thing?

    Thanks!
    Alex
    2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
  • mark48186mark48186 Member Posts: 21
    Hi Terry, wanted to get your thoughts on private-party price for a vehicle.

    Detroit, Michigan
    1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
    4door Laredo trim 4x4
    4.7L V8
    103,000 miles
    Tan color
    Options - Leather, power seats, alloy wheels
    Looks like good condition, not sure. Owner says great shape. Haven't seen in person yet, so not sure on tires/brakes/maintenance.

    Looking for a private party price. Could use a decent 4x4 up here in Michigan.

    Thanks!
  • jwatsjwats Member Posts: 72
    I am thinking about a black 1998 TL 3.2 with 98,000 miles to use as a winter car in Minnesota.This keeps nicer cars out of the salt and corrosion. If I go further, I will get a pre purchase inspection done, but the owner says:
    1. Never driven in winter
    2. Miles are predominantly highway miles.
    3. No know defects.
    He owns a small business that is doing well, a place in FL and a couple of new vehicles, so he doesn't need the Acura.Condition is very good with clean interior, a couple of minor blemishes and service records from dealer. It lookes like a clean, well maintained car altho it needs a set of tires.

    If the pre-purchase inspection comes up clean, I am thinking that $7,500 would be a decent price. I am excited about the car because mileage does not kill cars here, corrosion does,and this one is fresh.

    Here are my questions.

    1. is this a decent price? I don't care about squeezing every last penny from the deal. private party sale.

    2. Can I reasonable expect another 50,000-75,000 trouble free miles with proper maintenance? this would be another ten years for me.

    3. Any known defects with these?

    Thanks in advance for your advice

    John
  • jcbama85jcbama85 Member Posts: 7
    Hi Terry,

    My wife's parents are looking at a 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander, XLS, AWD, ABS, red exterior, gray/black interior, automatic, good tires, no sunroof, no french fry or gatorade stains, clean CarFax, with 30,000 miles. Local dealer asking $15,900. It's located in Northeast Tennessee, closest major city would be Charlotte, NC.

    Since I'm the good son-in-law charged with getting them a good deal, what's a reasonable price for this car?

    Thanks,

    Mike
  • jaserbjaserb Member Posts: 820
    He probably has all of $7,500 in it if he's had it since the early days of September .... I have a stupid feelin' that $7,5/$7,9 will get it home ......


    Update: went in to try and work a deal but it had already been sold earlier today. I'm not too surprised, as it was a nice car for the money.

    He might pull the trigger on its little brother, an '02 Escort with Auto, A/C, Cruise, PW, PL, and 35k miles. That's really more the size and gas mileage he's looking for, and he can probably get it for around $5500. It's a little cracker box but it's in nice shape and Escorts seem to last forever.

    -Jason
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,330
    after much pestering (and eternal gratitude), I actually bought a car tonight, and traded in my old one.

    Traded in my 1.5 YO '05 Scion tC (aka the car that didn't work too well when you have 2 kids, one of whom has grown a lot recently), on an '05 (but brand new) Accord.

    Sticker on the Accord (with accessories at cost) was ~24,650, and paid a difference of $7,100+ the Scion (which only cost 16.5K new).

    So, even at an overallowance of 14K (which Terry said was doable, but ever dealer I visited pegged as 1K over book), I got the Accord for $3,500 off sticker, which works for me (must have, since it is in the garage).

    As always, could I have gotten the difference down a little? Maybe, but the dealer seemed pretty well determined not to do so, but in any case, no one got hurt on this deal.

    So Mr oracle, did I do OK?

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • zodiac2004zodiac2004 Member Posts: 458
    Cmon, John.
    You need to do better than "Accord (with accessories at cost)"
  • 1racefan1racefan Member Posts: 932
    I am not Terry but...

    I bought an '03 Outlander LS with 10K miles on it in summer '04. Red, AWD, very clean...this was in Charlotte. I paid $13,500 at the time in case that helps. By the way, the $13,500 was the price the dealer's internet guy quoted me over the phone - I don't claim to be some super negotiator, I just like to have easy purchases.

    Obviously the XLS has a few more options (like the ABS), but mine also had 20,000 miles less at purchase. Hopefully this will at least give you a rough idea. We'll have to see what the master says.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,330
    it is an Accord EX-L, 4 cyl manual trans.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • jcbama85jcbama85 Member Posts: 7
    Hey Race Fan,

    Thanks for the update. They've dropped the price to $14,800, so I think they've got a little wiggle room left. I'm thinking $14,000 and we've got a pretty good deal. It does have ABS and sunroof.

    Drives nice and I think will be a good car for them. They don't have the $ for a CRV or Highlander, so this is a good choice for them.

    I will look forward to what our resident guru says about it.

    Thanks,

    Mike
  • warnerwarner Member Posts: 196
    For reference, I just traded in my 2004 Honda Civic LX 5-speed manual. The car had 41,000 miles on it and I got $11,900 on trade in value (I paid $15,100 for it new). And this was negotiated AFTER I negotiated the purchase price of my new car (a 2006 Civic EX with auto, which I bought for $1020 under MSRP).

    Hope this helps,

    Warner
  • engelvetengelvet Member Posts: 5
    I just wanted to post what we got for our '01 Acura MDX. We just leased an '06 Honda Pilot, and no dealers in our area of south Florida were offering over $15,000 for the MDX. It's a Deep Mahogany Pearl (almost burgundy) Touring (no Nav) with 48,000 miles, running boards and rear splash guards. It's in "good" condition and Kelly Blue Book, NADA, etc all said trade-in was around $19-20,000.
    Two dealers advised taking it to CarMax. We did and got a written offer of $19,000, good for 7 days, and withing 300 miles. The dealer we got the Pilot from offered $18,000, but since we decided to lease, the extra $1,000 from CarMax was the way we went. The Honda dealer showed me the average auction prices were $17,000 last week, with one with lower mileage going for $19,000.
    Probably could have gotten more by selling it ourselves, but this was a pretty good offer, and immediate.
  • 6month6month Member Posts: 10
    Location: Dallas,TX
    Year/Make/Model: 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
    Body Style: SUV
    Engine: 4.0L
    Driveline: 2WD
    Mileage: 25000
    Color: [Charcoal/Charcoal Cloth]
    Major Options: Moonroof
    Condition: Excellent.
    Tires - poor condition
    Brakes - good
    Maintenance - good
    Other: No known issues
  • oacoac Member Posts: 1,594
    Hi Terry:

    Many moons ago (actually Sept this year) you gave me a ball park on 2003 LX470 with miles in the 30/40K range at $39K from the auction (Riverside, Mannheim). Well, I paid $40K for an extremely clean, well cared for '03 LX470, Sand Dollar Pearl (cream)/tan, 50K (tall) miles, XM Sat Radio (installed), and RES DVD system. Not a scratch on the body.... Owned by a rich fella (no lien on title) in the land of big oil... Truck arrived this week from Houston, TX. CA registration was a breeze (title, bill of sale, smog cert... and taxes did it). Just wanted to thank you for all that you do here. Your ball park $39K was a real help for me in negotiating the purchase. Traded in my 2001 Sequoia, SR5 2WD, 63K miles, leather seats, new round things, new stoppers, dual breeze, and a few parking lot kisses for $16K even. I am happy with the deal.... The wife loves her new truck, and felt Santa came in a tad early this year... :)

    For comparison, my local dealer (8 miles from my house) has a White/tan '03 LX470 with 43K miles, and no frills, listed for ~$54K... :sick:
  • jaserbjaserb Member Posts: 820
    Couldn't quite get them down to $5500 on the Escort, but he went ahead and picked it up for $5600 and had them throw in a keyless entry system. So, $5600 for a:

    2002 Escort 4 door
    White with tan guts
    Very clean in and out
    35k miles
    Auto, A/C, PW, PL, Cruise, Keyless, AM/FM Cassette

    I think he did all right. His plans are to put a couple years of really cheap miles on it then pass it on to his kid when she turns 16. Not as nice as the Sable, but better on his budget.

    -Jason
  • breldbreld Member Posts: 6,918
    I am very interested in a new 3-series wagon, and thought I'd check out the competition today at the local Audi dealer. Went in looking for A4 Avants, but found and test drove the following:

    2005 (pre-facelift) S4 Avant in Denver
    9,500 miles, Audi Certified
    Dark Blue, Gray leather seats
    Premium package
    Premium Sound
    No Navigation
    Looks to be in nice condition, as expected with the low miles.

    Sticker on the window is $44,995, they also have it listed on-line at $43,991.

    What do you think the dealer put into this, and what will they let it go for?

    2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman

  • achenatorachenator Member Posts: 128
    update, update,update

    Put a 4 liner in the big paper. Asked 11,300, (wanted to move it) sold to the first caller on the morning the paper came out. Got 10,600. I prolly could have gotten more but I wanted it gone. Thanks Terry. Also I went ahead and bought a new TL. Going used just didn't seem worth it.
  • kwindkwind Member Posts: 1
    Dallas/Fort Worth
    2004 Audi TT
    225 Quattro Roadster
    16,061 miles
    Black/Black
    Bose, 6 disc changer, heated seats, all-season tires
    Condition looks perfect
    Carfax says it has had one owner in Texas and it was registered as a corporate fleet vehicle.

    Audi dealership is offering it as a certified pre-owned vehicle and asking $31,795. It's been on their lot since August. How much do you think I should pay?

    Thanks in advance!
  • breldbreld Member Posts: 6,918
    Forgot to add regarding the S4 Avant - it is a 6 speed manual.

    2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman

  • woodywwwoodyww Member Posts: 1,806
    I wonder if the fact that it's a Black/Black convert. in Texas could have anything to do with the fact that it's set on their lot for so long. At least if you buy it, you can fry your morning eggs on the passenger seat while you drive to work in the morning.....
  • hull22hull22 Member Posts: 43
    I have a 2002 Toyota Camry LE auto, with power windows/locks, ABS as extras, low mileage ~30K. The only problem with selling at a good price are a a few dings from fender benders.
    The front right bumper and rear left bumper have cosmetic scratches(no damage to the plastic underneath). The driver door has a very small dent that I will try to have fixed with Paintless Dent Removal. However, the main issue is when the left rear bumper incident occured, the right rear quarter panel has a slight vertical crease in it.
    My question is how much that, if unfixed, should reduce the trade in value of my car? Not sure how much it would cost to fix. Should I fix it?
    I think in excellent condition, it should fetch somewhere around 10-11K as a trade-in and 12-13K in a private sale. Any help would be appr.eciated
  • woodywwwoodyww Member Posts: 1,806
    Well, that's the thing, how much it would cost to fix? Do you want to spend time schlepping it around to body shops to get estimates? It sounds like the damage is minimal; I'd sell it "as is". It'd be different if it was a '02 Lexus or Porsche.....

    *Not sure how much it would cost to fix*
  • jcbama85jcbama85 Member Posts: 7
    Hey Terry, Feliz Navidad! Here's an update for you from post 29147.

    After looking at several things for my wife's parents, including the Mitsi Outlander described in post 29147, they decided they would rather have a car and didn't want to spend that much $. After extensive research, we found several Honda Accords and a Nissan Maxima they liked in their price range.

    We found a gold 2001 Honda Accord EX, V-6, Sunroof, 6-CD Changer, leather, new tires, clean carfax, 48900 miles, local trade. Has a couple of small WalMart cart dings, nothing major, no french fry or gatorade stains. It has been on the local Ford dealer's lot since August (local trade) and he was ready to move it. They had a sticker on it for $16,800, which was higher than the Kelly Blue Book Retail. Salesguy said they were ready to move it.

    My wife's parents had an old 1995 Dodge Intrepid with 110,000 miles on it, so it was worth virtually nothing. I think wholesale on the Dodge was $800.

    Started out at a difference of $14,000; they quickly came to $13000 but wouldn't budge. Finally got them to $12,777 "out the door" and then I pulled out their $200 internet coupon that said "Get your best deal and then produce this coupon for an additional $200.00". I think this ticked the salesguy off and I told him $12,500 out the door and we're done. He said the $200 would make it 12,577.00. I told him $12,500 and we're done. He finally agreed.

    Assuming we got nothing for her parent's car, we got the Accord for less than $12,000, which is less than trade in value. I'm sure the dealer made $, but I think I got my wife's parents a pretty sweet deal and they seem very happy. Certainly better than that dreadful Intrepid they've been driving for the past 8 years.

    You provide a great service on here and I'm sure I'll be back for more advice when I buy my wife a new SUV once we give her Explorer to our youngest son when he its 16.

    Thanks again,

    Mike
  • relewisrelewis Member Posts: 2
    I have been finding wildly swinging Trade-in values for my 2002 Chrysler T&C on the internet sites. They range anywhere from $13000 to $17000. Among others, I have checked Kelley's Bluebook ($13,000)and NADA ($17,000). What is a realistic figure for a TC in the National Capital Region (Wash. D.C.)? It seems to me that a $4000 spread on these two prominant valuation agencies is quite large.

    2002 Chrysler T&C Limited
    Dark Blue with Light Taupe Leather w/Preferred Suede accent
    Flawless Interior with 2 minor parking lot scuffs on bumper covers
    3.8L with 4spd Auto and Traction Control FWD
    7 PAX with 2nd row removable buckets
    Collapsible Cargo Area Caddy
    DVD system, 1 CD player and two pairs of Wireless Headphones; second row powered console
    Chrome over Cast Aluminum Premium wheels
    Power side doors and liftgate
    51,000 miles
    All maintenance at Chrysler Five-Star Dealers
    Just completed 50,000 Mile service with Transmission Service.

    Thank You,

    REL
  • acgoodacgood Member Posts: 9
    Well I've admired in slience long enough on this board, here goes:

    Location: Hartford, CT
    Year/Make/Model: 2000 Camry LE sedan (4-cylinder)
    Mileage: 75200
    Color: dark gray
    Major Options: power driver's seat, CD, ABS
    Condition:
    Clean interior, good life left in tires and brakes, only major work done was some body repairs to front right and back rear corners after my sister skidded off an icy road)

    Online estimates range from low 5's (KBB) to over 8000 (NADA)...what gives?

    Thanks in advance,

    Andrew
  • gallileogallileo Member Posts: 51
    > Flawless Interior with 2 minor parking lot scuffs on bumper covers

    Any car that has 51K does not have a flawless interior.

    Any visible wear on the brake- or gas-pedal? Not flawless.

    Any visible wear on the carpet where your feet sit? Not flawless.

    Any visible wear on the radio or climate-control knobs? Not flawless.

    You did hold the steering wheel during those 51,000 miles I hope? Not flawless.

    The seats and steering-wheel and carpets may have all been covered, so I suppose its possible they don't have wear, but somehow I doubt it.

    A realistic assessment of your car's condition is a prerequisite to getting an accurate estimation of its value. It may be in extremely-good condition, but I seriously doubt it is flawless.
  • jwatsjwats Member Posts: 72
    I am thinking about a black 1998 TL 3.2 with 98,000 miles to use as a winter car in Minnesota.This keeps nicer cars out of the salt and corrosion. If I go further, I will get a pre purchase inspection done, but the owner says:
    1. Never driven in winter
    2. Miles are predominantly highway miles.
    3. No know defects.
    He owns a small business that is doing well, a place in FL and a couple of new vehicles, so he doesn't need the Acura.Condition is very good with clean interior, a couple of minor blemishes and service records from dealer. It lookes like a clean, well maintained car altho it needs a set of tires.

    If the pre-purchase inspection comes up clean, I am thinking that $7,500 would be a decent price. I am excited about the car because mileage does not kill cars here, corrosion does,and this one is fresh.

    Here are my questions.

    1. is this a decent price? I don't care about squeezing every last penny from the deal. private party sale.

    2. Can I reasonable expect another 50,000-75,000 trouble free miles with proper maintenance? this would be another ten years for me.

    3. Any known defects with these?

    Thanks in advance for your advice

    John
  • im_brentwoodim_brentwood Member Posts: 4,883
    $17,000? Yikes! Sounds like a nice Van but that's out of reality. They aren't even bringing $13k at the sale... I'd hit it around the upper 10s only because I have my doubts about blue. Maybe if it was a cherry $11k... you might get into the mid 11s but I think that past $11,500 you're past the market.

    Terry?
  • chiefsfan88chiefsfan88 Member Posts: 1
    Hi. Could really use some help in NJ. My wife was in an accident with our 2002 Chrysler Town&Country (front end damage). Before the accident it was in good condition with just under 37,000 miles. The body shop is estimating $9500 in repairs (and the work is guranteed for as long as we own it; insurance co says that the body shop is tops in the area). Insurance Co. wouldn't total it as they say it's worth $16,000. They're sticking with that figure, though I pointed out that it's way high.

    My research shows that I'd probably get around $10,500 on a trade before the accident. I would absolutely disclose the damage. Can anyone give me an idea of what I could expect to get if the van were fixed and then I traded it in? I guess you should consider the work being done to be "top notch" quality.

    Thank you.
  • steine13steine13 Member Posts: 2,825
    Two things to consider:

    Once the body shop is "in there", they'll find another few bucks worth of work to do, you can count on that. And I don't mean like $175.

    Once the car is back together, I doubt it'll be worth anywhere near $10k.

    I've been in a similar situation -- my apologies to those who are tired of the story -- but I decided to take the check from the insurance company, sell the wreck on my own (not as hard as I thought), and eat whatever the difference to its previous value was.

    The way I look at it, that money is gone the moment you hear the loud CRUNCH.

    Good luck,
    -Mathias
  • woodywwwoodyww Member Posts: 1,806
    I wouldn't be too quick to let your ins. co. have the thing fixed. From what you're saying, it's totalled, no matter what your ins. co. is telling you now. You'd be better off taking the $9500 they're going to pay the body shop, altho I'd try for more. I can't imagine what a van worth $10.5K is going to be worth after $9.5K in repairs. 50%? 65%? Will it get a Salvage Title?
  • kk2482kk2482 Member Posts: 33
    Why would a red paint color bring more in a sale?

    I ask this because I like the color red but a friend [car fanatic at that] told me red paint is harder to maintain? I didn't know whether to believe them or not.

    Is there something I should watching for when choosing a car's color?

    My thoughts:
    *any car dirties easily but some colors enhance the dirt*

    White - dirt shows to easy
    Champagne - dirt doesnt show (not eye candy to me though)
    Blue - navy ... great, but dark colors hard to maintain?
    Red - love the color, but heard from more than one person it's tedious? how can it be more than the other colors?
  • rroyce10rroyce10 Member Posts: 9,332
    ..... just spent a few days in the Louisiana/Mississippi area for Christmas .... lots of people still don't have much -- so don't forget: http://www.redcross.org/

    .. and lets not forget our guys and gals at: http://www.opgratitude.com/


    Terry.
  • rroyce10rroyce10 Member Posts: 9,332
    ...... Brentwood....?!? ... did they close down the 7-11 in Tibet ....? .. did they pull your green card.?



    Terry :surprise:
  • rroyce10rroyce10 Member Posts: 9,332
    ..**update, update,update

    Put a 4 liner in the big paper. Asked 11,300, (wanted to move it) sold to the first caller on the morning the paper came out. Got 10,600. I prolly could have gotten more but I wanted it gone. Thanks Terry. Also I went ahead and bought a new TL. Going used just didn't seem worth it. ...**

    Thanks for the update ...... sounds like all the right things happened .. ya gotta pretty penny for the used one and you bought new ....

    Terry ;)
  • rroyce10rroyce10 Member Posts: 9,332
    ... **Hey Terry, Feliz Navidad! Here's an update for you from post 29147.

    After looking at several things for my wife's parents, including the Mitsu Outlander described in post 29147, they decided they would rather have a car and didn't want to spend that much $. After extensive research, we found several Honda Accords and a Nissan Maxima they liked in their price range.

    We found a gold 2001 Honda Accord EX, V-6, Sunroof, 6-CD Changer, leather, new tires, clean carfax, 48900 miles, local trade. Has a couple of small Wal Mart cart dings, nothing major, no french fry or Gatorade stains. It has been on the local Ford dealer's lot since August (local trade) and he was ready to move it. They had a sticker on it for $16,800, which was higher than the Kelly Blue Book Retail. Salesguy said they were ready to move it.

    My wife's parents had an old 1995 Dodge Intrepid with 110,000 miles on it, so it was worth virtually nothing. I think wholesale on the Dodge was $800.

    Started out at a difference of $14,000; they quickly came to $13000 but wouldn't budge. Finally got them to $12,777 "out the door" and then I pulled out their $200 internet coupon that said "Get your best deal and then produce this coupon for an additional $200.00". I think this ticked the salesguy off and I told him $12,500 out the door and we're done. He said the $200 would make it 12,577.00. I told him $12,500 and we're done. He finally agreed.

    Assuming we got nothing for her parent's car, we got the Accord for less than $12,000, which is less than trade in value. I'm sure the dealer made $, but I think I got my wife's parents a pretty sweet deal and they seem very happy. Certainly better than that dreadful Intrepid they've been driving for the past 8 years.
    You provide a great service on here and I'm sure I'll be back for more advice when I buy my wife a new SUV once we give her Explorer to our youngest son when he its 16.
    Thanks again,

    Mike**
    ================================

    Mornin' Mike ...... sounds like you did super on that deal ... the dealer had "at least" the strong $12's in it, probably had the strong $13's into it after the floorplan and a new set of wipers blades .l.o.l... ..... the Do Je'...? .. maybe $500/$1,000 depending on how they structured the deal .. it's not what the Dodge could "might" be worth, it's how much trouble it is to get rid of it ..... so they cut and ran - and you made out like a bandit.

    Feliz Navidad and thanks for the update ...

    Terry. :blush:
  • rroyce10rroyce10 Member Posts: 9,332
    ..... ** am thinking about a black 1998 TL 3.2 with 98,000 miles to use as a winter car in Minnesota. This keeps nicer cars out of the salt and corrosion. If I go further, I will get a pre purchase inspection done, but the owner says:
    1. Never driven in winter
    2. Miles are predominantly highway miles.
    3. No know defects.
    He owns a small business that is doing well, a place in FL and a couple of new vehicles, so he doesn't need the Acura. Condition is very good with clean interior, a couple of minor blemishes and service records from dealer. It looks like a clean, well maintained car all though it needs a set of tires.
    If the pre-purchase inspection comes up clean, I am thinking that $7,500 would be a decent price. I am excited about the car because mileage does not kill cars here, corrosion does,and this one is fresh.

    Here are my questions.

    1. is this a decent price? I don't care about squeezing every last penny from the deal. private party sale.

    2. Can I reasonable expect another 50,000-75,000 trouble free miles with proper maintenance? this would be another ten years for me.

    3. Any known defects with these?

    Thanks in advance for your advice
    John
    ====================================

    These are pretty nice little drivers .... if it's clean, cold breeze, depending on the Carsmack, the service history and he hasn't hit every curb or Love Bug in the last 90,000 miles and he hasn't had any major secret rendezvous's with Maaco ... then a dealer would probably drop the super tall $5's low low low $6's in it, and probably would see the super strong $8's for it down Retail Rd ..... $7,5 is fair for both, maybe kick another $200/$250 off cuz' of the weak rubber .....

    The only bad thing about these dudes is ... you gotta start lookin' for another one when they start breakin' at 170/190k .. then you have to take a Saturday off, miss all the good cartoons, etc etc etc ....l.o.l....



    Terry. ;)
  • kk2482kk2482 Member Posts: 33
    Is it smart to buy a car that's red? Why would a red paint color bring more in a sale? I was told red paint is harder to maintain? I didn't know whether to believe that opinion or not. Is there something I should watching for when choosing a car's color? :confuse:

    I am a 23yo female in need of purchasing a used vehicle. I don't like being pushed around, and I study the facts before I do anything. But is it best for me to bring a guy with me to the dealership?

    I have been researching my options online for about seven months. I, like so many, I need something economical and with an edge to it. I don't know which choice to go with -- I've narrowed my options to a 2002 Volkswagen Passat or 2002 Saab 93. Are these 2 good options for eco and edgy? I want something in the $12000 - $15000 range, with around 30mpg avg. ANY SUGGESTIONS? I must buy a newer car soon. It is necessity. Please help me!
  • georgehughes35georgehughes35 Member Posts: 25
    Hello,

    I am looking at a 2005 Volvo V50 offered at $28,000 which looks almost pristine, several very fine scratches. Other boards recommended asking here for either the cost at auction for the target or some knowledge of what the dealer may have paid. The facts....

    T5 AWD
    11,500 miles
    Premium Package
    Convenience Package
    Climate Package
    Convenience Package
    Xeon Headlights
    DSTC

    Trade in is a 1994 Mazda protege with 150K miles which looks rough.
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