Tips In Negotiating When Buying A Car

November 25, 2019

Negotiating is crucial when buying a car – we’re not saying it will always work… but there’s a chance it will, so why not try?

The thing about negotiating a deal with a car salesman is you can’t get intimidated – they know the right tactics to get you to spend what they want you to spend. When it comes to lowering the cost of your future car, check out these tips:

Don’t be scared to be firm. Let the car salesman know that you’ll sign the paperwork when they agree to your price range. Be confident in declining counter-offers and when they don’t match your price, give them your phone number and leave. If the price you’re wanting is a possibility, they’ll call.

Give them a call on the last day of the month. Salespeople and managers are often under pressure to close a deal before the month ends. If they’re feeling desperate, a deal they wouldn’t accept on the 4th of the month, might become a possibility on the 31st of the month. This goes for weekend follow-ups, too. If they’ve had a bad weekend with sales, they might bend to your price. \

Get around. Repeat this processes with other dealers in the area – this is a great way to see who will pull through to your desired price (or closest to it). That way, you’re not dependent on one dealership.

Know the details. If you’re buying a new car, you’ll want to sound knowledgable on what you want, so if a salesperson tries to overcharge you, you’ll know. You can go on Edmunds.com and find the market value of a car you’re wanting. If you’re looking to buy a used car, KBB.com will give you the info you need.

Get your financing in order. Looking to avoid the drama in the finance office? Get a loan from your local credit union. If you’re looking to buy a new car and want a special interest rate, you’ll have to work with the dealerships finance person.

However, if you have to go in with a finance person at the dealership, don’t fret. Yes, they will throw you good pitches and they will be very good at what they do. Stick to your guns and be polite about what you want. Don’t be afraid to say no to everything you’re not interested in – they can’t make you do anything.

Be polite. At the end of the day, whether you think someone is trying to scam you or not – they are still human and deserve respect. It’s only understandable that being a car salesman, and having the stereotype that they do, can be emotionally exhausting.

If you’re firm on what you want, yet polite, someone is going to be much more willing to sell you a car for less. Not only is it good life advice, but good advice in the car-buying realm of life… just be a decent human being.

Yes, you may have to buy your car late on a weekend, or during a snowstorm – but this means you could get your desired price (or close to it). It’s worth negotiating for what you want. Remember, stay firm on what you want, while being kind in the process. Good luck out there!

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One Reply to “Tips In Negotiating When Buying A Car”

Tony Cole says:

December 3, 2019 at 10:46 am

Hi discount driver,
I would like to lease a car for the first time. What advice do you have on how to negotiate a good lease. (48 month lease).? Also should I be tempted by no money down leases or is this a scam in the long run??
Thanks
Tony
ps I have always purchased my cars new or slightly used.20+ cars.
I am a baby boomer who is semi-retired.

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