foliage2000
New member
Hi Everyone,
I'm interested in purchasing a used Leaf. This forum has been a terrific resource for understanding the ins and outs of the car, and helping people like me nail down the car that might work for us. Thanks to all that have contributed! I'm going to wait until the 2016 Leaf is announced before making a final purchase as I think the prices on older models will be best after the 2016 is announced, but right now I'm targeting a 2013 or newer, in the SV trim or better. I've looked a few used Leafs and even rented one for a few days to try it out, so I'm sold on the car and have a manageable commute, so I know the car will work for me. Given all that, I have a few questions I was hoping people could help with:
1. Does anyone know the process/pitfalls/advantages for buying a Leaf at auction? I know that most of the vehicles at the lots come from auction, so I'm curious about the prospect of cutting out the middle man and buying one directly at auction. I realize this may end up not being a wise choice, since one may have to spend alot of time at auctions before the right vehicle with the right specs comes available, a dealer may have better ability to fix any issues with the car, etc. Also, I haven't heard of others on this forum doing the same thing, so what am I missing?
2. Often the listings by the dealers will be completely wrong (an S will be listed as an SV, SV with QC will just be listed as a base SV, etc.) and I want to be sure I know what's being offered. When looking at a Leaf in person, what's the best way to verify the trim level and options included on a used Leaf? I haven't been able to find any distinguishing marks on the vehicle that verify the trim level (e.g. there's no S, SV or SL badge on the car), so how is one to know for sure?
Thanks for any thoughts!
I'm interested in purchasing a used Leaf. This forum has been a terrific resource for understanding the ins and outs of the car, and helping people like me nail down the car that might work for us. Thanks to all that have contributed! I'm going to wait until the 2016 Leaf is announced before making a final purchase as I think the prices on older models will be best after the 2016 is announced, but right now I'm targeting a 2013 or newer, in the SV trim or better. I've looked a few used Leafs and even rented one for a few days to try it out, so I'm sold on the car and have a manageable commute, so I know the car will work for me. Given all that, I have a few questions I was hoping people could help with:
1. Does anyone know the process/pitfalls/advantages for buying a Leaf at auction? I know that most of the vehicles at the lots come from auction, so I'm curious about the prospect of cutting out the middle man and buying one directly at auction. I realize this may end up not being a wise choice, since one may have to spend alot of time at auctions before the right vehicle with the right specs comes available, a dealer may have better ability to fix any issues with the car, etc. Also, I haven't heard of others on this forum doing the same thing, so what am I missing?
2. Often the listings by the dealers will be completely wrong (an S will be listed as an SV, SV with QC will just be listed as a base SV, etc.) and I want to be sure I know what's being offered. When looking at a Leaf in person, what's the best way to verify the trim level and options included on a used Leaf? I haven't been able to find any distinguishing marks on the vehicle that verify the trim level (e.g. there's no S, SV or SL badge on the car), so how is one to know for sure?
Thanks for any thoughts!