Kelly Blue Book

[TexaSouthern]

Hello everybody,

I'm looking to purchase my first car and I am going to be looking at some Tahoes and Yukons tomorrow. I am pretty much 100% positive I will be getting one, as they are my favorite newish car (non-classic). I have 8k to spend but I am hoping to spend a little bit less since I don't really mind driving one a bit old and if I spend all 8k I will be low on cash for a month or two. I definitely want 4WD. I am not sure if I want the OBS or NBS but I like them both a lot. I looked at the KBB (well actually my father did) and he saw that the 1996 Tahoe is worth a whopping $1000!! Is this serious? Where can I find all of these 2 door 4x4 Tahoes for $1000?? They are like 4-6k here for one with 150k or less miles... So am I about to spend way too much for a ****** car and should stick to the NBS or is the KBB people out of there minds? $1000 just seems nuts to me...

 

[Snowbound]

There are a few different numbers KBB looks at. That $1000 is prob trade in value. So if you bought one for $4000 and went to trade it in they would only offer you $1000. Private party your looking at anywhere between 2500-6000 depending on condition, miles and options. But I always tell people that ask what their rig is worth, it's worth whatever you can get for it or what someone is willing to pay. I paid $3k for my 99, could never get what I have into it. I have receipts for $11k, might be able to get 6-7 if the right buyer comes along. But I'd rather keep it then sell at a loss. You have to remember, these aren't collectors, there are some great deals to be had. Private party will be your best bet. It's all about right place right time.

 

[spazzman90]

Not sure where you are located, but here in the Northwest there are lots for sale in varying condition. Of course they were super popular around here the first time around so that may be part of it. I don't think the NBS offers much more over the OBS in terms of safety, features, or performance. So i guess it would come down to personal preference. Having said that, the OBS seem to go for around 2500-4000 in pretty amazing condition as long as you wait it out and look at as many as you can before purchasing.

Regardless of which style you choose, you want to leave yourself close to 2 grand on a vehicle this old to spend on whatever may come up. Brakes, shocks, transmission service, any thing could go out at any time. Probably want to keep your foot out of it as well considering the age of these vehicles. Oh yeah, and negotiate the heck out of whatever one you settle on. Cash talks!

Best wishes in your search,

-Jeff

 

[ISU-152]

Good luck and like jeff said leave yourself some money for repairs or upgrades. Post pics after too!