Go with KBB?

tdikt

Member
Joined
Sep 2, 2010
Location
Iowa
TDI
none yet
I'm going to look at a 99 Jetta tdi with 222K miles this weekend. The asking price is $3800 but KBB is 2000-3000 Private Party value. I expect the car to be considered "fair" condition. Would be best to stick to what KBB says? I don't want to get taken.

Thanks!
 

TornadoRed

Top Post Dawg
Joined
Aug 3, 2003
Location
West Des Moines (formerly St Paul)
TDI
2003 Jetta TDI wagon, silver; 2003 Jetta TDI wagon, indigo blue; 2003 Golf GL 5-spd, red (PARTED); 2003 Golf GLS 5-spd, indigo blue (SOLD); 2003 Jetta TDI wagon, Candy White (SOLD)
With a car of that age and miles, there are too many variables for any "rule of thumb" valuation.

You need a checklist that includes everything expensive and everything commonplace.

Injection pump and nozzles
turbo function (the turbos themselves are very reliable, but the vacuum lines can be problematic)
record of last timing belt change
alternator, starter, AC unit, power steering
brakes pads and rotors, shocks and struts, tires.
exterior stuff likes doors, windows, locks, and of course rust or crooked body panels

If everything works, nothing needs immediate replacement, then you can afford to pay a little more. If there is a lot of work needed right away, then lower your offer accordingly.

A 1999 is the A3 or Mk3 model, the one preceding the 1999.5-2005 Mk4 models. These can be great cars, but they did not have the same high level of corrosion resistance as the newer model. So check for rust.
 
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