How to Find the Value of an Automobile
When faced with the purchase of a new automobile, a buyer is more likely to make a fair deal if he has a good concept of the value of the automobile he wants to purchase as well as the automobile he is trading in or selling. Failure to research an automobile's value prior to purchase can lead to buyer's remorse later on. While interest rates fluctuate, and often you can refinance a large purchase to a lower rate, you cannot renegotiate the selling price once the sale is complete.
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Instructions
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Access the Kelley Blue Book or NADA website on your computer, or purchase a current Kelley Blue Book or NADA book from a bookstore.
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Access the valuation section of the selected site and input the make, model and year for the car you're interested in purchasing, as well as the car you are trading (if applicable). If you are using a book, locate the make, model and year of the car in the book to get the base value of the vehicle.
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Select options available on the car, such as leather seats or stereo systems, from a list provided on the website. If you are using a book, the upgrades will be listed below the base model information and will each contain an amount that the upgrade is worth.
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Select a condition for the car, if required by the site or book, to adjust the value. Possible choices may be excellent, good, fair or poor. Condition refers to visible flaws or obvious mechanical issues of the vehicle. Each valuation source will provide you with a specific definition of each condition option in order for you to make a selection. The condition of the car increases or decreases the overall value of the car. The book will provide an increase or decrease to the total value based on the condition selected.
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Submit the completed information online and the source site will return an estimated valuation for the car. If you are using a book, add together the base value amount, upgrade amounts and add or subtract the adjustment for condition to arrive at a total valuation for the car.
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Tips & Warnings
Always attempt to negotiate a lower selling price for a car. Start your offer below the valuation so that you have room to negotiate.
