Tips on Buying Cars: Higher miles, newer car?, independent mechanic, auction day

Question
Hi Roger,

I'm looking at a 2008 Toyota Sienna LE with 120k miles.  It's a one owner car and has got all maintenance records from the dealer.  I've seen the carfax on it and it's listed at $9,950.

 I drove two hours to see it and through miscommunication, it wasn't there and was on its way back from auction (but not until after we'd left town).  

On the phone, the Internet salesperson said she wouldn't be surprised if I got it for $7,000 with cash.  I have cash, but haven't mentioned it yet.

Now the van is back, until Thursday when it goes back to auction, if it doesn't sell at the dealer.  

What are my negotiating points?  I don't want to go back without an offer, but am not sure how much to offer.  I was planning on starting at $7,000 and hoping to pay $8,000 out the door.  Now I'm wondering if I could get it for less right before auction day, being that it's the end of the month.  

Also, when and how would I get an independent mechanic to look it over?

Thanks!
Moriah

Answer
Hi Moriah,

My first question is this:

"Why was this van being auctioned and not kept and retailed?",

my 2nd question is

"Why didn't this car sell at the auction they took it too?"

and my 3rd question is

"If they are just going to run it again next week why did they go to the effort and expense of driving it back to the store and didn't just leave it there and get a really good number for it for the next weeks auction?"

I am attaching the REAL booksheet (based upon the information you gave me) for this van...in case it's hard to read the expected auction value is $8,326.00. These vans ...even with 120k on them are OK merchandise your negotiating points are:

1. Don't have to transport it back to the auction and roll the dice on what they get for it. (most cars have a lower limit so the process isn't exactly wrought with peril)

2. The van is getting ready to go thru another book change (it changes weekly)and is worth less everyday

3. Tell them this: "Look even if you sell it to me at your dead cost ...guaranteeing you (the dealer) won't lose any money or pay any fees or drivers etc. By retailing it to me instead you have a chance to make money on me financing the car and running me thru F and I and giving your finance people a shot at me" then you either surprise them with cash when you are in finance or you pay it off before the first payment hits.

4. Lastly remind them that they are automotive retailers and you are a retail customer and they really can't have too many happy retail customers out there saying good things about them.

Anything under 8500 is a good price for this rig ...at least it would be if its in great shape and needs nothing out here on the left coast

my email address is roadloans@gmail.com  hit me back if you have any follow up questions because I will stay with you on this until you are completely satisfied and can give me perfect 10's and maximum bonus points~!

Good Luck and thanks for the great question

Roger