What Is the Value of a Used Snowmobile?
Snowmobiles are recreational vehicles designed to be ridden in the snow, kind of like snow's equivalent to a dirt bike. It comes as no surprise, then, that used snowmobiles come in a wide range of prices based on varying factors such as sled condition, history and the specific make, model and year.
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Appearance
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While appearance isn't everything, it can be a key factor in determining a used snowmobile's value. If the snowmobile has dents, cracked plastic or crooked parts, it should be reflected in the pricing. Such problems can often be an indication of a crash, as well. Generally speaking, any appearance flaws lower the value but mechanical problems, such as crooked skis or handlebars, are typically more serious than a few scrapes and gouges in the plastic.
Vehicle History
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The history of the vehicle is one of the largest determinants of value. It stands to reason that a used 2009 snowmobile in perfect condition will generally have a higher resale value than a similar 1998 model. For example, Arctic Cat's 2009 Bearcat 570 XT has a NADA Guides resell value of about $6,605 while the similar 1998 Bearcat 550 WT's resale value is around $1,455. Similarly, how the vehicle is stored when not in use helps determine value. Vehicles stored indoors in a controlled environment are less exposed to the elements, which can cause rusting and other problems. Also, sleds that have been modified or raced may sound higher in value, with their advanced specifications, but the stress racing and modification potentially places on the machine can actually lower value.
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Specific Model
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As with cars, motorcycles and other autos, different models from different manufacturers can offer drastically different value and performance. If "Company A" is well-known for its high-quality snowmobiles, while "Company B" has a less than stellar reputation, it's safe to assume you'd pay more for a used snowmobile manufactured by the former, assuming the specific snowmobile is in good condition. Before selling or purchasing, consider looking for expert reviews on the sled in question. They'll offer a good idea of the quality of that specific model, allowing you to better determine value.
Tips
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If you're purchasing a snowmobile, be sure to thoroughly inspect it before purchase and see if you can give it a test ride. If you're inexperienced with snowmobiles, consider bringing a friend who knows more than you on the subject so he can give valuable advice on the quality and pricing of specific sleds. Before purchasing, look into blue book pricing for that specific model to ascertain the typical price.
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- Photo Credit snowmobile 2 image by Przemyslaw Moranski from Fotolia.com
