How to use Kelley Blue Book Online to Compare Car Prices

Kelley Blue Book is the United States' largest car valuation company. The company has a great website for used vehicle pricing and evaluation. In fact, the company has become so identified with its services that the term blue book has become synonymous with a car's true market value. Armed with the information that they provide, you will be a smart buyer or seller and will get the best deal possible for your car.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Detailed information about the car in question

1. 
   Compare car prices and extras before purchasing

   Identify the make, model and year of the car you are interested in. You'll also need the odometer reading and the general condition of the car. Be honest if you want an accurate valuation.

2. 

   Select "Used Car Values" on the webpage. Then enter the year, make and model of the car in question from the drop down lists. You will also need to enter your zip code, since car values can vary from state to state.

3. 

   Next you'll need to choose the trade-in, private party or retail value of the car. Trade-in value is what you can reasonably expect from a car dealership. Private party is what you can expect to sell the car for if you plan to sell it on your own. Retail value is what you'll pay for the vehicle from a used car dealer.

4. Now you will need to work through the next several screens, detailing the equipment the car has. Be sure to be thorough in your answers here because optional equipment can significantly impact a car's value.

5. Rate the vehicle's condition; there are explanations for the different choices on the website. Be honest in your assessment if you want meaningful results. You now have a Blue Book value for the vehicle.

Tips & Warnings

• Always compare car prices, equipment and extras in order to get the most for your car buying dollar.

[mweise]

on 7/5/2009 Thanks for walking me through this process! Now I know what info I need in advance, great job!