Perhaps you feel you did not get the best terms when purchasing past vehicles. Perhaps you are looking for information to help you have a more positive negotiation process. When you have a good approach, you will end up with a better deal. Get the best out of your car shopping experience with the following advice.
Research the car you have chosen online before making the trip to the dealership. Once you know the make and brand you are in the market for, then go see the dealer. Spend some time online comparing your options and learning about the most important safety features. These are vital things, yet the salesperson might not tell you about them outright.
If you need to find a good deal, look online. You can save a lot of money by doing online research. Once you have found the perfect vehicle, you can either drive to the dealership offering the vehicle or go to your dealership and have them purchase the vehicle for you. Sometimes a long drive might be worth it.
Set up financing for your vehicle prior to visiting the dealership. You can accomplish this with a trip to your bank or nearby credit union. These institutions offer lower interest rates than what you might get if you financed a vehicle through the dealer. It also gives you a better idea of your budget.
When you shop for cars, set aside sufficient time to get the process completed. You don’t want to feel like you’re rushed and commit to a deal you’re not comfortable with. Give yourself the entire afternoon to get used to your potential vehicle. If you have other obligations, plan on coming back the next day.
If you own an expensive vehicle, do not drive it to the dealership to buy a new car. If you do, the salesperson will not take any low offers you have.
Don’t feel that you necessarily have to buy from a car dealership. Often, you can find just the right vehicle through private sales or smaller lots. Make good use of your local classifieds and social media sites that can help you narrow your search and possibly find the right car at a great price.
Go to auto shows to learn more about different makes of car. These shows provide you with an opportunity to research and compare many vehicles side-by-side. Also, you can speak with people who know their stuff. After visiting an auto show, you can know more about which cars appeal to you.
Bring a friend along during the car-buying process — preferably someone who has nothing to gain or lose from your purchase. An objective party will make it easier for you to avoid basing your purchase decision on emotions. They can even go on the test drive with you to point out issues they notice.
Blue Book
When purchasing a used car, always do your homework. You can even learn online about a car’s value. Use NADA or Kelly Blue Book to find out what the vehicle is worth. If your dealer is offering prices higher than the blue book value, you should go to a different dealership.
Call the dealership to find out if they have the model you want in stock. If you show up, the salesmen will do his best to get you into a car, period. If you are looking for a specific car that isn’t in stock, going there is just wasting your time. Call ahead and find out what the story is.
Never agree to an as-is warranty if you purchase a used vehicle. You will quickly regret it. The minimum you should accept is a 30 to 90-day warranty. Should the engine or transmission stop working once you’ve left the dealership, you are solely responsible for the cost of repairs.
The best deals aren’t just going to fall into your lap. It is necessary to learn ways to make them happen and to fight off aggressive sales techniques. Be prepared to counter their math with your own. Keep this in mind as you shop.
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