How to Determine a Car's Retail Value

A vehicle's retail value, also referred to as its blue book value, can be defined as the amount a seller could expect to pay when purchasing that vehicle from a dealer. Knowing the retail value of a specific car, truck, van or SUV is key to both buyers and sellers. The time spent doing this research up front will allow you to negotiate the best deal.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Calculator
• Computer
• Car value publications

1. Find out vehicle specifics before starting your search. These items include the vehicle's year, make and model. If you are selling the vehicle, also note the mileage, condition and special features.

2. Purchase or locate a copy of the Kelley Blue Book, NADA Used Car Guide or a similar book. These publications are designed specifically to provide used car values. Most also offer simple forms online that calculate approximate value.

3. Browse car dealer listings in local newspapers and publications and search for the vehicle you are researching to get an idea of dealers' list prices.

4. Give several dealerships the specs on the car you're researching and ask them to provide you a quote.

5. Compare the various retail values from your research. Add all of the individual quotes together, and divide by the number of total estimates to obtain an average retail value for that vehicle.

6. Use the average retail value calculated to make an educated guess when selling or purchasing the vehicle.

Tips & Warnings

• No person or resource will be able to calculate an exact value for a car. Use these resources as guides to determine a price range.
• Avoid overestimating or underestimating a car's retail value. The best deals are based on accurate estimates.