How much should I pay for this 96 Geo Prizm LSI?

Question

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How much should I pay? I believe the bluebook said $3,400.

It is a 4 cylinder, has new tires and only 110,004 miles. I'm starting college in the fall and wondering if this would be dependable.

Answer 1

06/18/08 NADE Regular $1,900 83,454 Avg WHITE 4G  Yes

06/12/08 FRDKBURG Regular $1,900 136,258 Avg RED 4G A Yes

06/05/08 LAS VEGA Regular $1,400 144,152 Avg SILVER 4G A Yes

04/30/08 MINNEAP Regular $2,000 162,770 Above TAN 4G A No

03/17/08 AYCOCK Regular $700 239,525 Below BQACK 4G 5 Yes

02/28/08 GTR PHNX Regular $1,450 121,082 Avg GOLD 4G A Yes

THESE ARE RECENT DEALER AUCTION TRANSACTIONS I DONT KNOW YOUR AREA BUT I WOULD ESTIMATE THAT CAR WENT FOR 1750-2100 AT THE AUCTIONS....Just so people know the little gas saver cars are selling way high,,,and the gas guzzling suv's are selling way low------I would offer the dealer 2500 plus fees,,,,theres plenty of cars to pick from,,,,,,hope this helps......

Answer 2

No more than $2,300, and only because of the new tires.  The average 'life span' of a car is 10 years, and that one is beyond that by a couple of years.  

Will it be dependable?  Perhaps, but don't bet on it.  And don't over pay.

Answer 3

I wouldn't take it if they stuffed $1,000 in the glove-box before they gave it to me. But that's just me...

I have no idea about a Prizm's dependability; you can check the Web sites in the Source section. But, even for a dealer, that price seems high to me. I'd try to get them to knock at least $500 off the price before I'd think of buying it. I'd also advise you to have a knowledgable, impartial third party (such as myself) go with you when you take a look at it.

Answer 4

You should pay less than $3400.  KBB.com says:

Excellent  $2,730  

Good        $2,370  

Fair          $1,980  

If possible, it is best to get the car checked -- 100 point inspection -- before buying.  It may cost $75-$100, but it saves a lot of money in the long run.  You don't want to find out after you have taken it home that it has an engine or transmission or other problem.  If someone won't allow you to take the car for a check-up, it is best to walk away.  You may still decide to take the car after you find out what is wrong with it, but then you can negotiate to reduce the price.

The car should run fine for you if it has had regular servicing and, most importantly, regular oil changes.  If the person selling has vehicle maintenance records, that is even better.  Good luck! :-)

Answer 5

I just bought my 1996 Geo Tracker 2 days ago. VERY reliable car. I bought it for $2,000. Great gas milage. But if you're buying it for more than what bluebook suggests, I'd talk to the seller about lowering the price.

But a Geo is a never ending car. Kinda like a Honda, but older.

=)