CarOracle Logo

Buying & Selling

Maintenance

Finance & Insurance

Car Care

Road Scholar

CarOracle Logo
CarOracle Logo

Buying & Selling

Maintenance

Finance & Insurance

Car Care

Road Scholar

CarOracle Logo

What Are Kelley Blue Book Values?

Written By

Peter O'Neil

Published

May 2, 2024

A couple confused about Kelley Blue Book Values
A couple confused about Kelley Blue Book Values
A couple confused about Kelley Blue Book Values
A couple confused about Kelley Blue Book Values

Delve into the different types of Kelley Blue Book values, when they are applicable and a brief overview of how they are derived.

A Glimpse into the Past: Les Kelley and the Start of Kelley Blue Book

In 1918, a man with a vision named Les Kelley embarked on an ambitious journey in the automotive industry with merely $450 in his pocket. His innovative approach led him to create a list of automobiles he desired to purchase, along with the prices he was willing to pay. This endeavor, known as the "Kelley Kar Company’s list of autos and the prices they were willing to pay", eventually transformed into what we now identify as the Kelley Blue Book in 1926.

By the 1960s, the influence of Kelley Blue Book had crossed American borders. Its reputation for offering unbiased and precise valuations had earned it international recognition. This credibility was further solidified during World War II when the U.S. government utilized KBB values as the standard for determining used car prices.

Today, Kelley Blue Book, a crucial part of Cox Automotive and a sister company to Manheim Auctions, continues to hold significant influence in the automotive industry. The digital platform, kbb.com, provides a variety of tools and insights, equipping consumers and dealers with the knowledge to navigate the car buying and selling journey confidently.

Understanding Blue Book Values: A Guide for Consumers

Understanding Blue Book Values: A Guide for Consumers

1. Auction Value: This foundational value represents KBB's estimate of what a vehicle is expected to fetch at a wholesale auction. It's a valuation assuming full disclosure of the vehicle's condition and prior to comprehensive reconditioning for retail sale.

2. Trade-in Value: When considering exchanging their car at a dealership, consumers frequently turn to the KBB Trade-in Value. This value indicates what one can anticipate receiving from a dealer, post an accurate appraisal. Given that the dealer bears the costs of safety inspections and reconditioning, the Trade-in Value is typically less than both Private Party Value and the Auction Value. This often comes as a surprise to many.

3. Private Party Value: For those looking to transact outside dealership bounds, the Private Party Value serves as a negotiation starting point. Representing an "as is" value, it excludes warranties, and the eventual sale price can vary based on the vehicle’s condition and regional market influences.

4. Instant Cash Offer: Taking convenience to the next level, KBB's Instant Cash Offer is a fixed amount proposal for a consumer's vehicle. This offer considers unique vehicle features, specific conditions, and local demand. Valid for 7 days, it can be redeemed at participating dealerships.

5. Used Car Fair Purchase Price: For consumers on the buying end, the Fair Purchase Price provides a realistic figure they can expect to pay for a used car in their area, exclusive of taxes and other fees. Updated weekly, this value takes into account actual used-car transactions and various other reliable third-party data sources.

You can review the full list of Kelley Blue Book values and their definitions at this link.


Normalizing Transaction Data: How KBB Determines Market Values

Kelley Blue Book dives deep into transaction data, curating it to provide accurate market values. This involves adjusting values based on factors like mileage, vehicle condition, and regional influences. The mileage curve, for instance, plays a crucial role, accounting for varying wear and tear.

Vehicle condition, often overstated in reports, is another critical element. KBB emphasizes the importance of accurate condition reporting to avoid discrepancies in value estimations. For consumers, understanding this facet is crucial, especially when purchasing a used car. Knowing the level of reconditioning a vehicle has undergone can make all the difference in securing a worthy deal.

Vehicle Reconditioning: What Does It Mean?

When we talk about vehicle reconditioning, we refer to the process of restoring a used vehicle to a condition that makes it more attractive for resale. This includes a gamut of tasks:

  • Mechanical Repairs: Addressing any functional issues the vehicle might have.

  • Cosmetic Repairs: Rectifying external and internal blemishes, dents, or damages.

  • Safety Checks: Ensuring the vehicle adheres to safety norms and is devoid of any safety risks.

  • Detailing: A thorough cleaning, polishing, and waxing to ensure the vehicle looks as good as new.

Reconditioning is an essential phase in the life cycle of a used car, enhancing its value and appeal. Consumers should always inquire about the extent of reconditioning a vehicle has undergone before making a purchase.

With the Advent of Online Offers to Purchase is Kelley Blue Book Still Relevant?

Kelley Blue Book is a helpful resource, but for consumers who want to know how much their car is worth to sell or trade-in, is it still relevant? Yes, but there are ways to obtain an actual offer on a car, and one well known alternative is CarMax. CarMax retails used cars and purchasing used cars directly from consumers is an area they have leaned into and now others in the industry have also offered the same service.

The difference is that Kelley Blue Book Trade-in Value is an estimate of what a potential dealer would offer for a vehicle when trading it in. However, this number is just an estimate and while it is based on market data, whether or not that particular dealer is interested in your 2018 Nissan Altima with 84,000 is another matter. In other words, not every dealer will view the vehicle with the same perspective.

So while Kelley Blue Book Trade-in Value is a great place to start, if you want to know what your car could be sold for today, CarMax is a good place to start. CarMax offers online appraisals but the best way to have certainty about what your car is worth to CarMax is to have them inspect the vehicle at one of their locations. That way there is no doubt, what CarMax would pay for your car because they have physically seen the vehicle, and given you a written offer good for a set number of days and mileage.

Are there other alternatives to CarMax? Plenty, including one offered by Kelley Blue Book, which you can read more about in this article about getting the most money for your car. There are typically local options as well and this is where, for California residents, the CarOracle Auto Buying Program can be helpful, where a licensed auto broker, who follows the market, can offer guidance on which avenues would be worthwhile to pursue to maximize the value of your vehicle.

Wrapping Up

Kelley Blue Book, through kbb.com, remains a valuable resource for those seeking clarity in automotive transactions. The diverse range of Blue Book Values, combined with insights into vehicle conditions and reconditioning, ensures that, regardless of whether you're buying, selling, or trading, you have a valid reference point when trying to understand the market. With that said for consumers on the verge of a car transaction and have an interest in knowing, down to the dollar, what their car is worth, other alternatives are more relevant.

Vehicle Valuation & Pricing FAQs

How can I determine if a used car is priced fairly?

To determine whether a used car is priced fairly, start by using vehicle valuation tools like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or Black Book to find the average price range for the specific make, model, year, mileage, and condition of the car you're interested in. Compare the dealer's price with these figures. Next, examine the vehicle's history report for any factors that could affect its value, such as an accident history or extensive repairs. Consider the car's maintenance and service records, if available. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can enhance a vehicle's value. However, always have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle to uncover any potential issues that might not be visible or disclosed.

How can I determine if a used car is priced fairly?

To determine whether a used car is priced fairly, start by using vehicle valuation tools like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or Black Book to find the average price range for the specific make, model, year, mileage, and condition of the car you're interested in. Compare the dealer's price with these figures. Next, examine the vehicle's history report for any factors that could affect its value, such as an accident history or extensive repairs. Consider the car's maintenance and service records, if available. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can enhance a vehicle's value. However, always have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle to uncover any potential issues that might not be visible or disclosed.

How can I determine if a used car is priced fairly?

To determine whether a used car is priced fairly, start by using vehicle valuation tools like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or Black Book to find the average price range for the specific make, model, year, mileage, and condition of the car you're interested in. Compare the dealer's price with these figures. Next, examine the vehicle's history report for any factors that could affect its value, such as an accident history or extensive repairs. Consider the car's maintenance and service records, if available. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can enhance a vehicle's value. However, always have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle to uncover any potential issues that might not be visible or disclosed.

What is Manheim's MMR and how does it feed into Kelley Blue Book, Black Book, and others?

Manheim Market Report (MMR) is a pricing tool used by dealers that provides data on wholesale used vehicle prices, and it's largely based on Manheim auction transactions. These figures are an important input for other vehicle valuation services like Kelley Blue Book and Black Book. The MMR provides a snapshot of what similar vehicles are selling for at wholesale auctions, helping these services understand current market trends and adjust their pricing models accordingly.

For a more in-depth review, please read the article What are Kelley Blue Book Values?


What is Manheim's MMR and how does it feed into Kelley Blue Book, Black Book, and others?

Manheim Market Report (MMR) is a pricing tool used by dealers that provides data on wholesale used vehicle prices, and it's largely based on Manheim auction transactions. These figures are an important input for other vehicle valuation services like Kelley Blue Book and Black Book. The MMR provides a snapshot of what similar vehicles are selling for at wholesale auctions, helping these services understand current market trends and adjust their pricing models accordingly.

For a more in-depth review, please read the article What are Kelley Blue Book Values?


What is Manheim's MMR and how does it feed into Kelley Blue Book, Black Book, and others?

Manheim Market Report (MMR) is a pricing tool used by dealers that provides data on wholesale used vehicle prices, and it's largely based on Manheim auction transactions. These figures are an important input for other vehicle valuation services like Kelley Blue Book and Black Book. The MMR provides a snapshot of what similar vehicles are selling for at wholesale auctions, helping these services understand current market trends and adjust their pricing models accordingly.

For a more in-depth review, please read the article What are Kelley Blue Book Values?


What is Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price and what is it based on?

Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price is an indicator of what other buyers in your area have been paying for a similar vehicle. It's derived from millions of real-world transactions and adjusted regularly as market conditions change. This includes both dealership and private party sales. Keep in mind that the Fair Purchase Price is a range, not a single number, and your actual price may vary depending on factors like color, options, dealer incentives, and local demand.

For a more in-depth review, please read the article What are Kelley Blue Book Values?


What is Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price and what is it based on?

Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price is an indicator of what other buyers in your area have been paying for a similar vehicle. It's derived from millions of real-world transactions and adjusted regularly as market conditions change. This includes both dealership and private party sales. Keep in mind that the Fair Purchase Price is a range, not a single number, and your actual price may vary depending on factors like color, options, dealer incentives, and local demand.

For a more in-depth review, please read the article What are Kelley Blue Book Values?


What is Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price and what is it based on?

Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price is an indicator of what other buyers in your area have been paying for a similar vehicle. It's derived from millions of real-world transactions and adjusted regularly as market conditions change. This includes both dealership and private party sales. Keep in mind that the Fair Purchase Price is a range, not a single number, and your actual price may vary depending on factors like color, options, dealer incentives, and local demand.

For a more in-depth review, please read the article What are Kelley Blue Book Values?


How do dealers price their used cars?

Dealers price their used cars based on various factors. These include the car's condition, mileage, the demand in the local market, and the wholesale price they paid for it, influenced by vehicle auction data. Dealers also factor in their reconditioning costs, marketing expenses, overheads, and a target profit margin. They also consider their inventory turnover. If a vehicle has been sitting for more than 30 days, they're more likely to lower the selling price. Dealers often use tools like vAuto, a sister company of Kelley Blue Book and AutoTrader, to understand vehicle pricing in their market. vAuto leverages used car vehicle listings to assess the market, which reflect retail prices, or prices being offered to and paid by consumers.

How do dealers price their used cars?

Dealers price their used cars based on various factors. These include the car's condition, mileage, the demand in the local market, and the wholesale price they paid for it, influenced by vehicle auction data. Dealers also factor in their reconditioning costs, marketing expenses, overheads, and a target profit margin. They also consider their inventory turnover. If a vehicle has been sitting for more than 30 days, they're more likely to lower the selling price. Dealers often use tools like vAuto, a sister company of Kelley Blue Book and AutoTrader, to understand vehicle pricing in their market. vAuto leverages used car vehicle listings to assess the market, which reflect retail prices, or prices being offered to and paid by consumers.

How do dealers price their used cars?

Dealers price their used cars based on various factors. These include the car's condition, mileage, the demand in the local market, and the wholesale price they paid for it, influenced by vehicle auction data. Dealers also factor in their reconditioning costs, marketing expenses, overheads, and a target profit margin. They also consider their inventory turnover. If a vehicle has been sitting for more than 30 days, they're more likely to lower the selling price. Dealers often use tools like vAuto, a sister company of Kelley Blue Book and AutoTrader, to understand vehicle pricing in their market. vAuto leverages used car vehicle listings to assess the market, which reflect retail prices, or prices being offered to and paid by consumers.

How should I compare prices from competing dealers on a new car?

When comparing prices from competing dealers on a new car, it's crucial to compare the "out-the-door" prices. The out-the-door price is the total cost of the car, including taxes, registration fees, and any dealer-installed options or accessories. This ensures you're comparing "like to like", considering the same year, make, model, trim level, features, and overall cost, rather than just the sticker price. Keep in mind that the lowest sticker price may not always be the best overall deal when you factor in all these variables. Always consider the full terms of the deal, including any incentives, rebates, warranties, and post-sale services.


How should I compare prices from competing dealers on a new car?

When comparing prices from competing dealers on a new car, it's crucial to compare the "out-the-door" prices. The out-the-door price is the total cost of the car, including taxes, registration fees, and any dealer-installed options or accessories. This ensures you're comparing "like to like", considering the same year, make, model, trim level, features, and overall cost, rather than just the sticker price. Keep in mind that the lowest sticker price may not always be the best overall deal when you factor in all these variables. Always consider the full terms of the deal, including any incentives, rebates, warranties, and post-sale services.


How should I compare prices from competing dealers on a new car?

When comparing prices from competing dealers on a new car, it's crucial to compare the "out-the-door" prices. The out-the-door price is the total cost of the car, including taxes, registration fees, and any dealer-installed options or accessories. This ensures you're comparing "like to like", considering the same year, make, model, trim level, features, and overall cost, rather than just the sticker price. Keep in mind that the lowest sticker price may not always be the best overall deal when you factor in all these variables. Always consider the full terms of the deal, including any incentives, rebates, warranties, and post-sale services.


Why are some vehicle dealers non-negotiable like CarMax and others are negotiable?

Different car dealerships have different sales models. Dealers like CarMax use a no-haggle pricing model, which means the price you see is the price you get. This model can reduce stress for buyers who dislike negotiation. It also offers transparency in pricing.

Why are some vehicle dealers non-negotiable like CarMax and others are negotiable?

Different car dealerships have different sales models. Dealers like CarMax use a no-haggle pricing model, which means the price you see is the price you get. This model can reduce stress for buyers who dislike negotiation. It also offers transparency in pricing.

Why are some vehicle dealers non-negotiable like CarMax and others are negotiable?

Different car dealerships have different sales models. Dealers like CarMax use a no-haggle pricing model, which means the price you see is the price you get. This model can reduce stress for buyers who dislike negotiation. It also offers transparency in pricing.

What are the pros and cons of leasing a car versus buying a car?

Leasing allows you to drive a new car every few years with potentially lower monthly payments and less up-front costs. It's a good option if you like having the latest models and don't mind always having a car payment.

Buying, on the other hand, might be more expensive initially, but you have the freedom to modify the car, sell it, or drive it for many years, potentially saving money in the long term. However, you'll be responsible for maintenance after the warranty expires. This decision depends on your financial situation, how much you drive, and whether you view a car as an asset or a tool.

What are the pros and cons of leasing a car versus buying a car?

Leasing allows you to drive a new car every few years with potentially lower monthly payments and less up-front costs. It's a good option if you like having the latest models and don't mind always having a car payment.

Buying, on the other hand, might be more expensive initially, but you have the freedom to modify the car, sell it, or drive it for many years, potentially saving money in the long term. However, you'll be responsible for maintenance after the warranty expires. This decision depends on your financial situation, how much you drive, and whether you view a car as an asset or a tool.

What are the pros and cons of leasing a car versus buying a car?

Leasing allows you to drive a new car every few years with potentially lower monthly payments and less up-front costs. It's a good option if you like having the latest models and don't mind always having a car payment.

Buying, on the other hand, might be more expensive initially, but you have the freedom to modify the car, sell it, or drive it for many years, potentially saving money in the long term. However, you'll be responsible for maintenance after the warranty expires. This decision depends on your financial situation, how much you drive, and whether you view a car as an asset or a tool.

What is the difference between getting pre-approved and pre-qualified for a vehicle loan?

Pre-qualification is often the first step in the auto loan process. It gives you a rough estimate of how much you might be able to borrow based on basic financial information that you provide. It doesn’t guarantee you'll get the loan, as it's a preliminary assessment.

Pre-approval, on the other hand, is a more in-depth process. The lender will check your credit history and other financial information in greater detail to offer you a specific loan amount and interest rate. This step can provide you with a stronger negotiation position when you are at the dealership because you have a firm understanding of how much you can borrow.

What is the difference between getting pre-approved and pre-qualified for a vehicle loan?

Pre-qualification is often the first step in the auto loan process. It gives you a rough estimate of how much you might be able to borrow based on basic financial information that you provide. It doesn’t guarantee you'll get the loan, as it's a preliminary assessment.

Pre-approval, on the other hand, is a more in-depth process. The lender will check your credit history and other financial information in greater detail to offer you a specific loan amount and interest rate. This step can provide you with a stronger negotiation position when you are at the dealership because you have a firm understanding of how much you can borrow.

What is the difference between getting pre-approved and pre-qualified for a vehicle loan?

Pre-qualification is often the first step in the auto loan process. It gives you a rough estimate of how much you might be able to borrow based on basic financial information that you provide. It doesn’t guarantee you'll get the loan, as it's a preliminary assessment.

Pre-approval, on the other hand, is a more in-depth process. The lender will check your credit history and other financial information in greater detail to offer you a specific loan amount and interest rate. This step can provide you with a stronger negotiation position when you are at the dealership because you have a firm understanding of how much you can borrow.

Should I buy new or used?

The decision between new and used cars depends on various factors including your budget, needs, and preferences. A new car is just that - new. This means that everything from the tires to the brakes and engine has not been used, which can provide peace of mind about its condition. Additionally, new cars come with the latest features and are typically covered by a comprehensive manufacturer warranty.

Financing rates for new cars can also be more attractive, especially when manufacturers are offering incentives. These incentives can lower the interest rate, sometimes to below what you'd get for a used car loan.

However, new cars can be significantly more expensive upfront and depreciate quickly. Once you drive the car off the lot, its value can drop substantially.

On the other hand, used cars are generally more affordable upfront and they suffer less depreciation. For the price of a new car, you might be able to get a used luxury or high-performance car. But, a used car can come with maintenance issues from previous ownership, and you'll likely face higher interest rates when financing. A certified pre-owned program can help provide some assurance about the condition of the car, but it's not the same as having a brand-new vehicle.

In the end, the decision between new and used cars depends on your personal preferences, financial situation, and risk tolerance.

Should I buy new or used?

The decision between new and used cars depends on various factors including your budget, needs, and preferences. A new car is just that - new. This means that everything from the tires to the brakes and engine has not been used, which can provide peace of mind about its condition. Additionally, new cars come with the latest features and are typically covered by a comprehensive manufacturer warranty.

Financing rates for new cars can also be more attractive, especially when manufacturers are offering incentives. These incentives can lower the interest rate, sometimes to below what you'd get for a used car loan.

However, new cars can be significantly more expensive upfront and depreciate quickly. Once you drive the car off the lot, its value can drop substantially.

On the other hand, used cars are generally more affordable upfront and they suffer less depreciation. For the price of a new car, you might be able to get a used luxury or high-performance car. But, a used car can come with maintenance issues from previous ownership, and you'll likely face higher interest rates when financing. A certified pre-owned program can help provide some assurance about the condition of the car, but it's not the same as having a brand-new vehicle.

In the end, the decision between new and used cars depends on your personal preferences, financial situation, and risk tolerance.

Should I buy new or used?

The decision between new and used cars depends on various factors including your budget, needs, and preferences. A new car is just that - new. This means that everything from the tires to the brakes and engine has not been used, which can provide peace of mind about its condition. Additionally, new cars come with the latest features and are typically covered by a comprehensive manufacturer warranty.

Financing rates for new cars can also be more attractive, especially when manufacturers are offering incentives. These incentives can lower the interest rate, sometimes to below what you'd get for a used car loan.

However, new cars can be significantly more expensive upfront and depreciate quickly. Once you drive the car off the lot, its value can drop substantially.

On the other hand, used cars are generally more affordable upfront and they suffer less depreciation. For the price of a new car, you might be able to get a used luxury or high-performance car. But, a used car can come with maintenance issues from previous ownership, and you'll likely face higher interest rates when financing. A certified pre-owned program can help provide some assurance about the condition of the car, but it's not the same as having a brand-new vehicle.

In the end, the decision between new and used cars depends on your personal preferences, financial situation, and risk tolerance.

Dive Even Deeper into Vehicle Valuation & Pricing

Dive Even Deeper into Vehicle Valuation & Pricing

Dive Even Deeper into Vehicle Valuation & Pricing

Latest Insights

Latest Insights

Latest Insights

CarOracle Logo

CarOracle is a California-licensed automotive dealer, License No: 43082, with an autobroker's endorsement, enabling us to represent consumers in the purchase or leasing of new and used vehicles.

©2024 CarOracle. All rights reserved

Facebook Logo
CarOracle Logo

CarOracle is a California-licensed automotive dealer, License No: 43082, with an autobroker's endorsement, enabling us to represent consumers in the purchase or leasing of new and used vehicles.

©2024 CarOracle. All rights reserved

Facebook Logo
CarOracle Logo

CarOracle is a California-licensed automotive dealer, License No: 43082, with an autobroker's endorsement, enabling us to represent consumers in the purchase or leasing of new and used vehicles.

©2024 CarOracle. All rights reserved

Facebook Logo
CarOracle Logo

CarOracle is a California-licensed automotive dealer, License No: 43082, with an autobroker's endorsement, enabling us to represent consumers in the purchase or leasing of new and used vehicles.

©2024 CarOracle. All rights reserved

Facebook Logo