lexusk8

So I went there after work today to check out the inventory sale going on for one day only, with prices marked down in various amounts. I had no intention to purchase a car there; I just wanted to check out the fine L's and see what my car is appraised at. Somehow, I got hooked by a "senior" sales consultant, who led me to 2 of their best ES's: a '99 sage for $25k, and a '99 black coach edition for $25k. Of course, with me already owning a '96 ES coach, who couldn't resist the look and feel of a '99 coach? I even took it out for a test drive. This car includes some additional features like heated seats and traction control. After the drive though, here's the big story...

When we went back to his desk to talk figures, I asked about appraising my current car. He got his manager to do that, and when he came back, he told me my '96 ES with 119k miles is worth $5,500 to the dealer. I was appalled since I know the KBB value for this car is $8,340 if it were dealer-traded. I knew right there then that I'm gonna get ripped off. They kept pressing me for this deal to go through since it was late at night, and even kept lowering the figure to a little over what I wanted (2.9% finance, $305 per month for 66 months), but I said a firm NO. I honestly thought I can get a better deal on my car somewhere else, if I choose to sell it soon, but my car is in almost perfect condition, and I don't want it out of my hands anytime soon.

This is my very first car dealer experience, and probably won't be my last. And from this one, I felt I made the right choice in saving myself lots of $$$

meZoom!

$5,500?????????????????? so in 3-car model years the value goes up more than 4x??? seems dramatic to me. glad you walked away. makes me scared to even ask what my 95 "regular" is worth. on top of that the ES i want is an 01 platinum.

Nabeel

Trade in-values from dealers are always rip-offs, there are no exceptions. The profit margins dealers make on trade-ins is absolutely crazy. You're so much better off selling the car privately, if you have enough time.

lexusk8

When I think about last night's rendezvous with the dealership, it's kinda funny how the dealers use certain methods to keep consumers within the field of closing a deal, like marking down their inventory lot to unseen discounted prices and having complimentary refreshments available. I came across this link when I arrived at work this morning. What a coincidence!

Have a read...

njes300

Its sad but true . all dealers use the same tactics . They give you 5500 for your car turn around sell it for 9-10k .

themasta3

i paid $5,500 for my 92 ES w/ 161,000 miles on it, and i still felt like i got a fairly good deal. a 96' w/ 119,00 would have to go for MUCH more than $5,500, even if it was at a dealership. if you were looking to sell it, your best bet is probably to sell it in the paper. you're always gonna get ripped off if you try and trade it in at the dealership

dariusman19

Damn that's too bad......

because I got offered $8,120 for my 94 with 73k mile at a Nissan dealership. They were trying to get me in a maxima



hahahaha

XenonES3

In terms of "trade-in values" $5,500 is about right for your car. $6,000 is better amount though. Remember, dealers have a larger profit margin over used cars than new cars. They take risks by selling used cars.

It's not worth trading you car in. Your best bet would be a private sale. If you have extra money, keep the car.

Also, $25k for a '99 ES? That's high! Better hope the car has ZERO miles on it for that much. I know several people who have bought 97-01 models ranging from $12,500 to $24,650. Shop around, good deals are everywhere.

Good Luck!

Nabeel

And how much were they willing to discount on the Maxima? They are gonna make their money somewhere...

dariusman19

They wanted me to pay invoice...........which was 30k something.

I was like hell no , But it was fully loaded with the navigation,leather,etc.

XenonES3

Good choce because you could get yourself a 2000 Maxima GLE 5-speed in the low 10's. Then add navigation and HID. You'd be saving yourself a *****load of cash.

Real example: friend bought a 2000 maxima gxe 5-speed, leather, 41k miles, for $10,XXX. Then, he added a bodykit, spoiler, zenneti chrome 17s , navigation, HID, exhaust, STB, and intake.

End cost: $16,000. Not bad!

dariusman19

Also you have to realize I live In california and they charge more for everything here.

XenonES3

Chicago ain't cheap either.