I’m considering buying a used Mazda3 next week. My local dealer has one sitting at 98k miles, 3 previous owners, and no accidents/damage for $14,400. What would be a good price to get this car for? From what I’ve seen on KBB private sale price is $10,500 so $14,400 seems like quite the dealer markup. Also in general how are these cars?
Yes it seems a bit high. 2 years ago I got my 15 3 GT hatch for $15k (68k miles) and some would’ve said that was too much then. I bought it sight unseen from out of state too…
I really wanted the HID lights, moonroof, leather heated seats and BOSE so the GT was a must. If some of those things aren’t as important to you, then the Touring should be fine.
In 2 years I’ve put on 20,000 miles. I’ve replaced brakes, tires and a gas cap. That’s it. As I close in on 90k miles I feel confident it’ll be reliable for the long term.
If this car you’re looking at has been maintained I’d give it a look and try to drive down the price a bit. Check the belts, spark plugs and fluids. And then don’t let the 100k miles scare you. These cars were built to last and they’re so fun to drive!
What kind of warranty comes with it? Price can depend a lot on what the dealer offers with it: a 12mo/12Kmile power train warranty can raise the price quite a bit from what KBB shows, even a 3mo/3Kmile can.
Look for ANYTHING to pick at and make a big deal of it to get a concession from the dealer. One thing to do is look along the side of the body for uneven or rippling paint lines that indicates body work from a crash. Not uncommon, and rarely disclosed by the dealer. It’s not necessarily bad but definitely something to bring up.
Will do! I like keeping my stuff in good condition so I’m trying to find a car that isn’t too beat up both mechanically and cosmetically.
Not sure if there is any warranty on it.
for $14.4 at 98k that NEEDS to come with a warranty. A new one is barely double that and you’ll get double the lifespan out of it AND pay way less in interest. Don’t just assume your credit isn’t good enough, go to a new dealership and apply.
I’m really trying not to finance. I don’t want another monthly payment to worry about. I’ll try to get them down in price or look elsewhere. What would you say is a fair offer to come to them with?
I mean I can’t see the car and I am not a proper mechanic. If you finance with a good rate, you actually save. In that the lower upfront payment can result in your $ earning income. But to each their own!
Seems about 1500 high to me in my market. Cars in that price range that are qualify for bank financing like that car are selling for all the money right now and values haven’t slidden as much as more expensive cars.