It's a 2006 Prius IV with 41,000 miles for $13,000. It's had 2 previous owners and all the scheduled maintenance done (last one this past April.) It's in surprisingly good condition. Best of all, it's got an energy efficient plate, meaning I can drive in the HOV lane even if I'm by myself. What's the next step? Should I get a pre-purchase inspection? Where can I get those done? Is the price reasonable or should I try to negotiate (it's a private party seller)? Based on the details I've provided, is this a car you'd recommend?
Price Seems High. I was offered 10K with only 30K Miles. Mine is loaded with everything. Yes, always get an inspection - I would go to a Toyota Dealer.
According to KBB, "excellent" condition would be $13K and "very good" would be $12.5K. It honestly does seem to be in excellent condition. What grounds should I use to try and negotiate a lower price?
The Dealers Don't use KBB. Look at ebay completed sold auctions. Will give u a good idea. The 10K I was offered was a dealer so I guess I could get more privately.
KBB, Edmunds, and so forth are suggested prices. The dealers have their own prices. If I were to buy the car you are looking at, I would not give more than 10K for it plus TT&L If it was showroom new with no scratches, dings or flaws of any sort I might consider more. You just don't find that in a car of that age. Don't go by what you see or what a carfax says. Always have a used car checked out by a third party. You should select someone who is competent and familiar with the Prius to properly check it out. If your local mechanic is gun shy, take it to a local dealer and ask them to check it over for you. If the seller does not agree to this, look elsewhere. It really sounds like you want a Prius, so really the next step is to simply go through the process of check out and purchase. In the end, the final decision must rest upon your shoulders. Ron
You're gonna find that happening a lot in your area (esp the ones with HOV plates). Honestly that alone is easily worth $500 (to me). If you find another like that, you really need to jump on it.
