Real Buying Examples
See how data-driven decisions helped real buyers
The Situation
A buyer found a 2020 Honda Civic listed for $12,500, which seemed like a great deal compared to similar listings at $16,000+. The seller claimed it was in excellent condition with low mileage.
What Our Analysis Revealed
- Market value for this car was $15,800 - the price was 20% below market
- Honda Civic 2020 had 3 recalls, all related to fuel pump issues
- 325 owner complaints reported, with common issues around transmission
- Average repair cost: $1,200 per incident
- Risk score: 72/100 (moderate-high risk)
The Decision
Our tool recommended PASS with a conditional note: "Only consider if all recalls are addressed and you get a thorough inspection." The buyer followed the advice and discovered the car had a salvage title from a previous accident that wasn't disclosed. They walked away and found a better option.
Key Takeaway:
A price that's too good to be true usually is. Our tool flagged the risk, and the data-driven approach saved the buyer from a costly mistake.
The Situation
A buyer needed a reliable commuter car and found a 2018 Toyota Camry with 120,000 miles. The price was reasonable, but the high mileage concerned them. They wanted to know if it was worth the risk.
What Our Analysis Revealed
- Market value: $14,200 - price was fair for the mileage
- Toyota Camry 2018 has excellent reliability (85/100 score)
- Only 1 recall, minimal owner complaints
- Average annual maintenance: $600 (below average)
- Known to last 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance
- Risk score: 58/100 (moderate risk due to mileage)
The Decision
Our tool recommended CONDITIONAL BUY with conditions: "Proceed if service records show regular maintenance, get a pre-purchase inspection, and negotiate price down to $13,000 to account for higher mileage." The buyer got the inspection, found excellent maintenance records, negotiated to $13,200, and made the purchase. Six months later, the car is running perfectly.
Key Takeaway:
High mileage isn't always a deal-breaker. With reliable brands and good maintenance history, high-mileage cars can still be excellent values. Our tool helps you assess the risk objectively.
The Situation
A buyer wanted a luxury SUV and found a 2019 BMW X5 at what seemed like a great price. They loved the features and condition, but were concerned about maintenance costs and reliability of a used luxury vehicle.
What Our Analysis Revealed
- Market value: $29,500 - price was 5% below market (good but not suspicious)
- BMW X5 2019 reliability score: 68/100 (moderate)
- Average annual maintenance: $1,200 (high, typical for luxury brands)
- Average repair cost: $1,800 per incident
- 5-year total cost of ownership: $42,000+
- Risk score: 65/100 (moderate risk)
The Decision
Our tool recommended CONDITIONAL BUY with important conditions: "Only proceed if you can afford the higher maintenance costs, get a comprehensive warranty, and have a trusted BMW mechanic for service." The buyer used our cost projections to budget properly, purchased an extended warranty, and made the purchase. They're happy with the decision but appreciate having realistic cost expectations.
Key Takeaway:
Luxury cars can be great values used, but the true cost includes higher maintenance and repair expenses. Our tool shows you the full picture so you can make an informed decision based on your budget and risk tolerance.
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