Tips on Buying Cars: HELP?? Please??, jeep grand cherokee, bud ford

Question
Hi there, I hope you can help.

(1) I like black for the color of a Jeep. I heard black is also hard to maintain and it hard to keep clean. Is silver easier? Whats so bad about black?

(2) I found a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 6 cyl, fulled loaded (CD, sunroof, leather heated seats), 28K miles, and it is certified pre-owned. The bottomline price I reached was $17000. I think it is a great price. What do you think?

(3) I bargained the car down from $19000 to $17000. I have a feeling they may nail me with a higher APR...what do I need to be aware of?

Thanks --Tre


Answer
Hi Tre and thanks for the question.  As to color it is in the eyes of the beholder.  Years ago black, as well as silver, was considered high maintenance due to oxidation but with the new finishes they all stand up very well as long as you keep them clean and waxed occasionally.  Black is hotter in summer, takes longer to cool off but is warmer in winter.  When I was in the car business I always had black demos because (supposedly) the factories picked out the best bodies to paint black because they showed defects more than other colors.  Again, a thing of the past so go for whatever color you prefer.  The price seems to be in the mid-range and if it is as good as you say probably ok.  Make sure you get a decent warranty with it.  Go to Edmunds.com and you can get the full range of pricing as well as financing options that are very attractive.  In any case I wish you the best of luck.  Bud Ford