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Using the Kelley Blue Book®

The Kelley Blue Book® provides pricing information on new and used cars. Available in print form and online, the Kelly Blue Book® is a vital resource for anyone buying or selling a car.

Understanding Kelley Blue Book® Values

The Kelley Blue Book® lists a new car's manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). If available, the invoice price for a new car is also listed. This is the amount paid by the dealer for the car.

Kelley Blue Book® values also include fair purchase price, or the amount consumers usually pay when buying cars of the same make and model.

Used Cars and the Kelley Blue Book®

Kelley Blue Book® provides four different values for used cars:

  • Certified pre-owned value is the dealer's asking price for used cars that qualify under an auto manufacturer's certified pre-owned program.
  • Private party Blue Book® value represents how much used cars are worth when sold by the owner.
  • Suggested retail value is the average dealer's asking price for used cars.
  • Trade-in value represents the amount dealers may be willing to pay for a trade-in vehicle.

In calculating a used car's Blue Book® value, you'll need to provide the vehicle's general condition, mileage, extras and features.

Blue Book® Value Tips

A Blue Book® value is as accurate as possible, but it's ultimately a guideline, especially when it comes to used cars.

The Blue Book® asks owners to classify the condition of their car using four categories:

  • Excellent: Looks and drives like new with no need for repairs or reconditioning
  • Good: No major defects or mechanical problems, minor wear and tear
  • Fair: Requires some servicing, has come defects
  • Poor: Needs major repairs or servicing.

This system is open to some misuse. Sellers may judge used cars to be in excellent shape when good, fair or even poor condition more accurately represents the vehicle. A dealer may judge a trade-in to be in fair condition, to the dismay of the owner, who thought the car was in good shape. When you look for a Blue Book® value, be honest with yourself about the car's true condition.