Kelley Blue Book - A Trusted Vehicle Information Resource

He started distributing a want list to car dealersdealers, franchised auto dealers, rental and fleet
and banks. The list consisted of types ofcompanies, original equipment manufacturers
automobiles that he was interested in buying,(OEMs), financial institutions, and private party
along with the amount that he was willing to paytransactions. The final value is then determined by
for each. As a whole, the automotive communitya proprietary editorial process. The collected data
felt that Kelleys judgment was such an accurateis analyzed, along with information like historical
reflection of values that they began to requesttrends, industry developments, current economic
the list for their own individual use. Kelley realizedconditions, seasonality, and location. The end
that the list could provide an ongoing businessresults reflect the most up to date values.
opportunity and so the Kelley Blue Book wasThere are several different values that are
born.available through Kelley Blue Book. They include:
First published as the Blue Book of Motor CarNew Car Blue Book Values- The New Car Blue
Values, the new guide featured the factory listBook Value reflects a vehicles actual selling price.
price and cash value on thousands of vehiclesThis value is based on sales transactions from
from Cadillacs to Duesenbergs. Everyone beganauto dealers across the United States.
to recognize the value of this handy guide,Private Party Value- This value reflects what a
including the banking and insurance industries.consumer might expect to pay if they are
After World War II, even the United Statespurchasing a vehicle from a private party or what
government accepted the values as fact anda seller might expect to receive from the sale of
used the book to place a ceiling on car prices.the vehicle.
Kelley Blue Book maintained the status of a tradeTrade-In Value- This value reflects what a
publication until 1993 when a consumer edition ofconsumer might receive from an auto dealer
the book was offered. Then in 1995, the Bluewhen trading in a vehicle.
Book website was launched, fueling the biggestSuggested Retail Value (MSRP for Used Cars)-
growth in the guides history.This value reflects the amount that an auto dealer
Today, Kelley Blue Book values are easilymight ask from consumers at an actual dealership.
accessible by consumers and industryThis value is meant to show the starting point for
professionals alike.negotiation, similar to a new sticker price.
To get their values, Blue Book receivesSince 1926, people have relied on Kelley Blue Book
information from automobile manufacturers,to provide authoritative and unbiased information
wholesale automobile auctions, independent autoin regards to vehicle values.