Hello, I recently traded in "my" TJ 2004 Sahara Wrangler with only 67,500 miles. Although the resale value of the wrangler is the highest rated of any model car, I feel that it was a bit of a challenge to get much information on the best way to value the wrangler. It was a tough choice to trade in (I had to get a bigger car due to family, etc) versus buy a car while keeping the wrangler to have two cars.
I think it would be good to have a dialogue on what one can do when buying, selling or trading in a wrangler because it seems that dealers don't give the wrangler the value it deserves given the true nature of true high wrangler demand. I hope this thread will help folks to make the best decision.
I'd love to hear what anyone did with their jeep under the circumstances of selling, buying or trading. It my specific case:
2004 Sahara Wrangler
Automatic, fully loaded (A/C, cd player, rear defrost and wipers, etc), hard top, all stock parts (no mods whatsoever)
67,500 miles (city car, never off-roaded)
Minimal to no accidents, paint issues, etc
Some rust under car due to driving in northeast
Fixes that needed to be made during trade-in: 1st two levels of heat stopped working, bass in back speakers need to be fixed (speakers may need to have been replaced), possible leak because front floor mats would get wet overnight but hard top was solidly bolted and in excellent condition.
Traded in for $8600.00 (to be sold at wholesale auction, or so they said)
Resale value researched, possibly could sell for $13,500, with $1500 repairs to heat and speaker system.
Question: Was this a good trade-in value? Better to do private sale even though state has strong consumer protection lemon laws?
I look forward to hearing everyone's thoughts and experiences. Thanks!