I'm trading in my 2006 MC for a Clubman, but have been disappointed in the value that the dealer wants to give me my car. KBB values the car in good condition at 16,790 (premium and sport packages, no major defects), however the dealer is only offering around 14,500 for the car.

The girl at the dealership suggested I go to Carmax and have them make an offer, but they only offered 14K!

Any suggestions?

 

I also noticed that our MINI dealer was really low-balling their trade-in offer for our car. I thought it a bit strange, considering we were trading in a BMW, and the BMW dealer is in the same building as the MINI dealer! We wound up selling it privately for $2500 more than the dealer's offer.

It's apparent to me that MINI is really trying to get away from the traditional dealer function of working with trade-ins. I almost believe it's part of their business model to simply their business as much as possible - sell/service cars, and that's pretty much it.

No real complaints, though! Can't wait to get my Clubman!

 

The dealership wants to buy it low and re-sell it for a big profit. If you have time sell it yourself. However by trading it you save on taxes.

 

What did Edmunds.com say? I find them to be a little more accurate than KBB. I'm selling mine rather than trading it... one less thing to worry about at the dealer.

 

Mine has been rear-ended twice, so I don't really have a leg to stand on haggling trade in. The dealership is giving me $1000 more than Carmax had offered. Still $3000 under kbb, but obviously kbb doesn't take into account car history.

 

Dealerships ALWAYS low ball the trade in...

Advertise on Craigs list and Auto Trader. We've had VERY good luck selling 2 previous MINIs on both of these sites. Be patient though - it may take several weeks.

Donna