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The goal here is to get the dealer to acknowledge anything that might justify accepting your offer. If the salesperson tells you the dealer can't take anything less than sticker price, be ready to walk away. At this point, two things can happen: The salesperson will suddenly suggest that the two of you can reach an agreement on price or they will shake your hand and tell you to come back if you change your mind. If the salesperson chooses the former, be ready to make a counteroffer to any price that's suggested.
The counteroffer may not be much lower than the sticker price, but it's an opening to further negotiations. At this point, you can increase your own offer slightly, but remember to keep your absolute ceiling in sight. It may take some back and forth but eventually, you may be able to compromise on a price that's acceptable to both sides. Negotiating is a fine art, and sometimes, the salesperson simply may not want to hear what you have to say.
One ploy is to adopt hardball tactics to try and you wear you down. This is where the true test of your negotiating skills comes in. If your offer is refused point-blank, don't wear out your welcome. Hand over your phone number and say that if they change their mind about making a sale, to give you a call. Then wait and see what happens. It's possible that, in a day or two, the dealer may call you to tell you they've reconsidered your offer.
If not, that's a sign to move on to the next used car lot and begin the negotiations process again. It can be time-consuming and tedious, but at the end of the day, you'll thank yourself if your negotiation efforts allow you to purchase the right car at the right price.
If you know what you want and what it should cost, you are halfway there. Both dealers and private sellers have their advantages and disadvantages, but thoroughly inspect and test drive any car prior to purchase, and get the vehicle history report. For a nearly new used car, CPO programs and leftover models are worth a look. Federal Trade Commission. Mercedes-Benz U. Car Insurance. Auto Loans. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for Investopedia. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page.
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Car Valuation. Car Buying Strategies. Wealth Lifestyle Advice. Table of Contents Expand. How Much Is a Used Car? How to Plan a Used Car Purchase. Negotiating With Private Sellers. The Bottom Line. Key Takeaways Buying a used car could offer a better deal financially than buying new, thanks to depreciation.
Getting a good deal on a used car can be done by conducting thorough research online, checking out cars and test-driving them, and comparing prices. Private parties may be less expensive but come with greater risk, while dealer lots and certified pre-owned vehicles may be more reliable and are backed by lemon laws in most states.
If you're interested in financing a used car purchase, it may be helpful to get prequalified or preapproved for a loan prior to entering into negotiations. Tip If you're planning to finance a used car purchase, consider getting prequalified or preapproved for a loan, as this could be a useful bargaining chip when negotiating prices.
Note Some of the automotive magazines — particularly the largest, Car and Driver — are also useful for their lengthy backlog of reviews with a slant towards driving enthusiasts. Ask to see if this incident has impacted the vehicle in any other way. These things could influence the price of the vehicle and give you more room for negotiation.
Control what you say and how you say it. Show respect. Let the seller know — buying a car is a big decision and not one you want to rush into.
If the seller has other potential buyers, then know that you could lose out on the car if you wait. Lost Your Order? Dealer Login FR. Vehicle History Vehicle History. Car Maintenance Car Maintenance. Tools Tools. Resources Resources. Blog Support Centre.
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