How Do You Find the Blue Book Value on a Car?
For most people, buying a car represents a substantial investment. So the wise buyer hunts out the best value for his money. With so many car manufacturers and models, and seemingly limitless options available, it's easy to get lost. To help with your purchase, consult the Kelley Blue Book. It gives buyers a guide to car values and other features.
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Instructions
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1
Get a copy of the Kelley Blue Book from an auto parts store, or go online to kbb.com. Look up or enter the car maker and production year for the vehicle you're interested in.
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2
Look at objective industry reviews when selecting the auto maker. Choose the model from the selected auto maker. Choose the options you want on the vehicle.
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3
Check the vehicle's mileage.
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4
Avoid buying flood-damaged vehicles. Examine the vehicle. Look for signs of serious damage such as slightly mismatched shades of paint on different parts of the vehicle. Open the trunk and look for signs of water damage, like water stain lines on the trunk's interior. Look under the hood for signs of potential engine problems.
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Calculate and apply your observations from Steps 1 through 4 to the Kelley Blue Book suggested value of the vehicle.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember the Kelley numbers are suggestions, not cast in stone. They can be negotiated.
Avoid vehicles that have unusually high mileage for their year of production.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Banknotes face value in one thousand roubles. image by Yuri Bizgaimer from Fotolia.com numbered lanes image by Tom Oliveira from Fotolia.com classy car for sale image by itsallgood from Fotolia.com damaged cars image by Stephen Chaplin from Fotolia.com
