Kelley Blue Book, or KBB for short, is an automotive shopping website. The company dates back to the late 1920s, when it published an actual blue book that dealerships referenced to provide car values and pricing information.
Kelley Blue Book's car prices were so commonly used by dealerships that the term "Blue Book" became a part of dealership lingo, and many car shoppers eventually adopted it as well.
Product details
- Publisher : Kelley Blue Book Co, Inc.; Consumer ed. edition (January 16, 2013)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 130 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1936078244
- ISBN-13 : 978-1936078240
- Item Weight : 6.9 ounces
- Dimensions : 3.81 x 0.92 x 5.93 inches
In 2010, Kelley Blue Book was acquired by Autotraders, and the brands now are closely interconnected under the Cox Automotive umbrella.
But Kelley Blue Book isn't the only place to find car prices these days. Here on Edmunds, we have similar pricing data on cars and much more. When a car buyer asks for the "Blue Book price," what they actually mean is that they're looking for an accurate car value in the current market.
The market value can be used in a number of buying and selling scenarios. If you're a new- or used-car buyer, you can use the Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book car price to help determine a fair market range to pay at the dealer. If you're selling your vehicle, you can use the values to check what its trade-in value is.
When determining the value of your used car, Kelley Blue Book will give you a price based on four condition levels: Fair, Good, Very Good and Excellent. Many people tend to overinflate their car's value and label it "excellent" when, according to Kelley Blue Book, only 3% of vehicles fit that description. Good, or perhaps Very Good, would be a better starting point for the condition of your used car.
If you're looking to sell your pre-owned car, Kelley Blue Book offers a service much One major advantage of the is that you won't be contacted by numerous dealerships and are free to redeem your offer within seven days.
Ultimately, Kelley Blue Book is a good resource to use when trying to determine your vehicle's value or when shopping for a new car or used car. But Edmunds offers successful services that compete directly with what Kelley Blue Book provides, so we suggest saving yourself a few clicks and letting us help you find your perfect next car.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The Kelley Blue Book—and its equally popular website—is one of the most trusted guides for automobile pricing, used by those who are buying or selling cars.
- Kelley assesses the following values: private party value, trade-in value, suggested retail value, and certified pre-owned (CPO) value.
- Kelley determines Blue Book values by analyzing pricing information from real-world used car prices, as well as industry developments, economic conditions, and location.
- Potential problems with Blue Book values include a delay as price information is assessed, the consumer tendency to overrate the value of the car they are selling or trading in, and a mismatch between listed by Kelley and the prices used by dealers, who access special industry-only pricing info.
PROS AND CONS
KELLEY BLUE BOOK HELP
Any time I am considering buying another vehicle I purchase a copy with the full expectation that the seller also will be using it as a reference. Best to be at least as informed as the other guy.
It also helps me compare potential vehicles for cost vs. utility, helps keep me focused on best value over pretty paint and status frills. Heated seats are nice – but I live in a very warm climate.
The companion must have for this decision is Consumer Reports used auto info. I may be months away form getting another car – but I’m doing my homework now. I have some idea of the value of my current car – is worth .
I Have made some decisions about what years make and models I am looking for based on how much I am willing to pay.
Kelley Blue Book as a Excellent guide Book
I am in the market of purchasing a new car and wanted to know what my present car is worth. I would like to sell my car myself, instead of using it as a trade-in.
The Kelley Blue Book is a good source to obtain valuable information. I can also check the Blue Book value on other cars….I want to be sure to purchase a car that has a good trade-in value.
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