Tips on Getting the Best Deal On Your Next Car
Buying a car is risky. Knowing a few great tips can help you get the best deal on a car. Want to know what to do, what to say, and what to consider when buying your next car? Read on and find out all you need to know about getting the best deal on a car.
Dealer Detective Work
Don’t just walk into the first dealership you see. Take some time to research a few different dealers. Read reviews, inventory, and how they treat customers. Some dealers love to play games. Know who you’re dealing with and have the upper hand.
Keep Cool
It’s easy to get attached to a shiny car and lose focus on what you actually want. Staying objective helps avoid overspending. Treat the process like a business deal, not love at first sight. The right deal will show up.
End-Of-The-Month Magic
Dealers often have sales goals to meet. And, at the end of the month, they’re eager to hit their numbers. That means they’re usually more flexible with their pricing. If you walk in during those last few days, you might just walk out with extra savings.
Incentives for Everyone
Here’s a secret you need to know: manufacturers give special discounts or cashback offers on some of their models. Do your homework and check what’s available. Sometimes there are hidden incentives you won’t know about unless you ask.
Price First, Payments Later
Sales people love to talk about monthly payments because it hides the real costs. Don’t fall for it. Always negotiate the actual price of the car first. Once you get that number locked down, then you can worry about what your monthly payments look like.
Bank on Pre-Approval
Before you step foot in a dealership, talk to your bank or credit provider about financing. Getting pre-approved gives you a better idea of what interest rates you qualify for. That way, the dealer can’t trick you with their inflated financing offers.
Know the Dealer’s Bottom Line
Every car has two prices: the sticker price and the invoice price. The invoice is what the dealer actually paid for the car. If you know that number, you know just how much wiggle room they really have, and you’ll be in a better place to negotiate.
Trade-In Tactics
If you have a car to trade in, don’t bring it up too early. First, get the best deal on your new car. Then, once that’s done, start talking about your trade-in. Keeping these steps separate stops the dealer from playing number games with you.
Skip the Shiny Extras
Dealers will try to sell you add-ons like fancy paint protection, extended warranties, and overpriced floor mats. Most of these aren’t worth the money. Say no politely, stick to the car itself, and avoid letting any extras sneak onto your final bill.
Start Low and Play Smart
When it’s time to make an offer on your dream car, don’t be afraid to start low. The dealer expects negotiation, so give yourself to go higher. Sure, they might counter your offer, but that’s all part of the game.
Call in the Inspector
If you’re buying a used car, you should always schedule an inspection with a trusted mechanic. A car can look perfect on the outside but have tons of hidden issues under the hood. Spending a little on an inspection can save you thousands down the line.
The Power of “No”
Don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal if it doesn’t feel right. Saying “no” is one of the strongest tools you have. Trust your gut and leave. There are plenty of cars out there looking for a new owner.
Test Drive Like a Pro
Never, and we mean never, skip the test drive. Take the car on highways, through traffic, and even down a bumpy road if you can. Listen for weird sounds and pay attention to how comfortable it is. The real test is how the car feels on the road.
Check the Car’s History
Buying a used car is risky. And it’s up to you to ask for the car’s history report. It shows accidents, repairs, and how many owners it’s had. This’ll give you peace of mind and even help you negotiate if you spot something odd.
Time Your Purchase Right
Car shopping isn’t just about what you buy, but when you buy it. Big holidays, model year changeovers, and the end of a sales quarter bring big discounts. Patience pays off, so wait a few weeks and save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
