Jaime HayWhether you are looking for a used car, truck, or SUV, the negotiation process can be stressful. The best way to get the most out of your purchase is to negotiate with a dealer on price and terms before you even set foot on the lot. In this guide, we’ll go over how to successfully negotiate with a car dealer when purchasing a used vehicle.
Always remember that as a customer, you should read the buyer’s guide posted on the outside of the vehicle. That’s where you’ll understand any warranties that may be included with the vehicle or if the vehicle is being sold “As Is.” If you operate a car dealership and are looking to purchase stock or custom buyers guides or other dealer window stickers, you should check out MBR Marketing at https://mbrmarketing.com/dealer-supplies/sales-forms/ftc-buyers-guides-and-holders.
1. Locate the Vehicle
The first thing you will need to do is locate a used vehicle that interests you. If possible, try to find out how much the vehicle is worth by using a pricing guide like Kelley Blue Book. This will give you a good starting point for negotiations.
Once you find a vehicle you’re interested in, you can plan a time to head over to the dealer’s lot. When you get there, take a look at the vehicle and make sure it is in good condition. If there are any problems with the vehicle, make sure you bring them up with the dealer.
The car may be in good condition, but there is no guarantee that it will continue being in good condition after you purchase it. Before you agree to any terms, make sure that the dealer is willing or able to fix any problems with the vehicle.
2. Get a Vehicle History Report
It’s important to get a vehicle history report. This will tell you the vehicle’s history and whether or not it has been in any major accidents.
If the vehicle has been in any accidents, you’ll want to bring this up with the dealer before agreeing to any terms. You may be able to get a better deal if the dealer knows that there is some damage to the car.
You should also ask the dealer for the car’s title. This will show you who currently owns the vehicle and whether they’ve been involved in any accidents with the car. If you’re still unsure about purchasing the car, you can always ask to take it for a test drive. This will give you a chance to see how the car handles on the road.
3. Become a Smart Salesperson
Before you talk to the car dealer, remember to think and behave like a smart salesperson. This includes dressing appropriately, showing respect at all times, smiling, speaking clearly, and using confident body language.
When you’re negotiating with the dealer, always be polite. This will make them more likely to want to work with you and give you a better deal. At the same time, it’s important not to let them take advantage of you or walk all over you. Be nice, but not vulnerable. Think about the words you use and the tone of your voice.
If you have any questions about the car, be prepared to ask them and phrase the question in a polite way. The dealer should be able to answer any questions you have about the car. Be wary if they can’t.
4. Start Negotiating
Now it’s time to start negotiating with the dealer. The first thing you’ll want to do is state how much you are willing to pay for the car. This number should be lower than the pricing guide you looked at, but not too low that the dealer will refuse to sell it.
If the dealer agrees with your offer, then great! You’re ready to proceed with the negotiation process. If not, then it’s time to start bargaining. One way to get the dealer to lower the price is by offering a trade-in. This can be anything from your current vehicle to cash. The more value you can offer the dealer, the more likely they are to agree to your terms.
Another way to get a better deal is by agreeing to take on the loan yourself instead of using dealer financing. This will give you more control over your monthly payments and interest rates. You should also think about asking for extras that are included with the purchase price, like a warranty or roadside assistance program. Once again, this is another way to get a better deal out of the sale overall.
The best way to get the best deal is by being prepared and knowing what you want. If you can’t find what you are looking for on the dealer’s lot, you may be able to get a better deal by finding another vehicle.
5. Don’t be Afraid to Walk Away
If all else fails and the dealer refuses to budge on the price, you can always walk away from the deal. The dealer may think twice about letting you go.
The worst thing that can happen is the car gets sold while you are still negotiating over it. In this case, you can always try to find another car or wait for the dealer’s next batch of cars.
Remember, never feel rushed into a car purchase. The best deals always come to those who are patient and willing to negotiate. Compare your options and make the best decision for you.
6. Make the Purchase
Once you’ve negotiated a good price with the dealer and looked over all the terms, go ahead and make your purchase. As soon as you agree to the terms, have the dealer write up a purchase agreement. This will document the sale and protect both you and the dealer in case any problems arise.
Once this is done, make your payment and you’re good to go! You will have to go through a quick financing process and fill out some paperwork before you get your car keys.
Before leaving, make sure to take a copy of all the paperwork and information about your vehicle purchase. This information should include the purchase agreement and any service records. Then, you’re ready to drive off in your new (to you) car!
