I get that the VIN helps verify options, accident history, and gives them a more accurate trade-in number. But my concern is that if it’s the same manufacturer as my lease (Hyundai dealer for a Hyundai lease), they can use the VIN to look up my exact residual value and buyout price.
If they see my lease buyout is $21K, they may just offer me that amount instead of what my car is actually worth in the market. I’ve heard from others that getting a trade-in value first—before giving the VIN—helps avoid this situation.
Wouldn’t it make sense to get their trade-in range first and only provide the VIN once I know their offer is competitive?