When selling a used car, it is important to figure out the adequate price for it. Prices for used cars depend on many peculiarities, and they can be quite dynamic. Cars can decrease in value over years and simply due to the fact that they've been used. When looking for used vehicles to compare the prices you can come across some very overpriced cars that are not worth the money. Not to be in that situation yourself and not to set a too-high price for the car, you should first determine what its actual price is.
For that purpose a car value calculator can be handy. There are many services that offer car value calculations, and the best ones are Kelley Blue Book (known as KBB) and NADA guides. These services can provide you with an estimate for any car condition and they can help you make informative decisions when you are buying or selling.
1. To use a car value calculator to get a fair evaluation you should mention:
- The make and model of the car;
- The year that it was produced;
- The color;
- The features the car sports (power windows, premium sound, sunroof etc.);
- Mileage of the auto;
- The general condition of the vehicle's body and interior;
- The general mechanical condition of the automobile.
You can use as many calculators as possible to gain the best idea of how much a car may be worth.
2. Use Car Comparison Sites
Websites like Auto Trader, Repokar, Craiglist and other used cars search websites which allow you to compare the prices of hundreds of autos at once, based on year model, manufacturer and accessories.
3. Visit a Mechanic
Before you sign any contract take the car to an experienced mechanic and have it checked thoroughly. A Pre-Sale inspection is always valued with the car buyers so be sure to get one. Consult with the specialist if it's worth to make an extensive repair or better lower the price on the car in case it has any damage to it.
Remember to try to bargain for the price you want to get and always understand how much a car's condition, features, and any included warranty may factor into its price. Be sure to evaluate the car's original price and any additional tuning you've made and set the most reasonable price.