I'm looking to replace either my '05 or '06 with an '08. I like the new style and the new features that have been added. 30 of the bigwigs at work got '08s and they seem to like them. The dealership that I bought both of my existing vehicles has one available to them that is equipped just like the two I have (FWD, no nav) for $25070. That is sticker price and I haven't started really negotiating yet. With gas prices climbing again they sound like they are firm on that price.

I brought both my '05 and '06 to the dealer today for appraisal. They offered me $17000 for the '05 (21500 miles) and $18000 for the '06 (19900 miles). Both of them are mint and the dealer agrees.

So, my question is should I trade the '05 or the '06 or possibly try to sell either one myself. If I buy the vehicle with a trade in I only have to pay the 5% salestax on the price minus the value of the trade. That kinda adds 5% to the value of the trade in.

Anyone seen any of the "earlier" models being traded or sold. Any advice appreciated.

Ray

well my advice would be to first run both an edmonds and kbb report to see what the trade value and retail value is. Then either try to neg. a better price from dealer or try putting one on ebay. I have bought and sold a few cars on ebay and its worked well for me. But keep in mind that they will charge you $45 to start the auction and then another $45 if it sells. Its not bad but then you would not get the benefit of the sales tax savings so that would have to play in the price you ask if you sell on ebay. good luck!! we just bought our 08's and we both love them! it really is fun to drive. I have the nav on mine and i really love it. the energy flow screen has been helpful for me. I am getting in the low 40's mpg in the city and we just drove down to waco from dallas and back, I had the cruise at about 72 and got 34 mpg! down and back. not to shabby!!

I am in the process of trading my 2005 gas Escape for an '08 hybrid. I am getting a fantastic deal on the new one ($2300 off sticker) but am getting taken for a ride on the trade. All the major sites suggest trade in is $15000 or higher; KBB says $13,145 which is about what I'll get (I still owe quite a bit on my current car). However, the sales tax savings and good price allows me to break even. Please keep in mind that the trade in value by all the sites is not what you should expect to get. The dealerships typically use what they could get at an auction and give you that or a bit more. Run the numbers--the sales tax savings and your down payment may make it worth it to just trade to avoid the hassle. I found out selling it on my own would save about $5 a month, and I decided that wasn't worth it to me. Good luck!

Yes, $17000 trade equals a private sale of $17850 if tax is 5%. Something to think about if you're a busy person and don't want to deal with selling it.

$25080 is base price (top of sticker) of a FWD before equipment or freight. Look at the bottom of the sticker, not the top, for actual MSRP. Even a base model with no options (if you can find one) has a MSRP of $25740.

The good news is that they WILL negotiate. There are a lot of them out there, waiting to be sold. There's no shortage, no wait list, and Ford is cranking 'em out. I bought an '08 for $500 below invoice, and that was in early March before the $500 rebate became available. I paid $28200, sticker was $30375. It took them a week to think about it, but they finally called and said "Come on down!" .