17 Car buying tips and tricks to outsmart the dealerships.

Jon Flobrant

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Purchasing a car can be an exciting but daunting task. Dealerships are well-known for their sales tactics and strategies, making it essential for buyers to be well-prepared and informed. By employing some clever tips and tricks, you can level the playing field and ensure a more favorable car buying experience. In this article, we will discuss 17 valuable tips and tricks that will help you outsmart the dealerships and secure a great deal on your next vehicle.

1. Do Your Research:Before stepping foot in a dealership, gather as much information as possible about the car you intend to purchase. Understand its market value, specifications, and features. This knowledge will empower you during negotiations and prevent dealers from taking advantage of your lack of information.

2. Set a Budget:Determine your budget and stick to it. Don’t be swayed by upselling tactics or offers that exceed what you can comfortably afford. Having a clear budget in mind will help you avoid unnecessary financial strain.

3. Consider Pre-approved Financing:Obtain pre-approved financing from a bank or credit union before visiting the dealership. This will give you leverage during negotiations, as you will be aware of the interest rates and loan terms you qualify for.

4. Timing is Everything:Visit the dealership near the end of the month or towards the end of the year. Salespeople may be more willing to negotiate better deals to meet their quotas and clear inventory.

5. Test Drive Multiple Cars:Don’t limit yourself to one car or one dealership. Test drive multiple vehicles from various dealerships to compare models, features, and prices. This will give you a broader perspective and help you make an informed decision.

6. Know the Invoice Price:Research the invoice price of the car, which is the amount the dealership paid the manufacturer. This information will help you negotiate a fair deal, as you’ll have a baseline price to work with.

7. Be Prepared to Walk Away:Demonstrate your willingness to walk away if the dealership does not meet your expectations. Sometimes, this tactic can prompt the salesperson to make a more appealing offer.

8. Keep Trade-in and Purchase Negotiations Separate:When trading in your old car, negotiate its value separately from the price of the new vehicle. Dealers may try to manipulate the numbers to their advantage if you combine the two negotiations.

9. Don’t Mention Your Trade-in Too Early:Avoid discussing your intention to trade in your old car until you’ve negotiated the price of the new vehicle. Otherwise, the salesperson might use it as a bargaining chip to reduce the discount on the new car.

10. Avoid Extended Warranties and Add-ons:Be cautious with extended warranties and add-ons offered by the dealership. They are often marked up significantly. Research their prices independently and consider purchasing them elsewhere if needed.

11. Check for Manufacturer Incentives and Rebates:Look for any current manufacturer incentives and rebates on the car you want to buy. These can significantly reduce the price and make your negotiation stronger.

12. Get Multiple Quotes:Collect quotes from different dealerships for the same make and model. Use these quotes as leverage to negotiate a better deal with your preferred dealership.

13. Be Mindful of Financing Terms:When discussing financing, pay attention to the total amount financed rather than the monthly payment alone. Dealerships sometimes extend loan terms to lower monthly payments while increasing the overall cost.

14. Inspect the Vehicle:Thoroughly inspect the car for any damages or issues before finalizing the purchase. Request a vehicle history report to ensure there are no hidden accidents or other concerns.

15. Don’t Rush the Process:Take your time during the buying process. Dealerships may try to rush you into making a decision, but it’s important to carefully consider all aspects before committing to a purchase.

16. Negotiate the Out-the-Door Price: Focus on negotiating the out-the-door price, which includes all taxes, fees, and additional charges. This approach will give you a clearer understanding of the final cost.

17. Read and Understand the Contract: Before signing any paperwork, read the contract carefully. Ensure that all agreed-upon terms and prices are accurately reflected and ask for clarification on any unclear sections.

Conclusion: By implementing these 17 cars buying tips and tricks, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and strategies needed to outsmart dealerships during your next purchase. Remember to conduct thorough research, set a budget, negotiate confidently, and be prepared to walk away if necessary. With these tools in hand, you’ll increase your chances of securing a great deal and driving away in the car of your dreams.

Certainly! Here are some additional Car buying tips and tricks to further outsmart dealerships:

18. Leverage Online Resources:Utilize online car buying platforms and websites to compare prices, read reviews, and gather valuable information about the vehicle you’re interested in. These resources can provide you with a broader perspective and help you make informed decisions.

19. Seek Multiple Dealership Quotes:Reach out to multiple dealerships through email or phone and request quotes for the specific car you want. By obtaining multiple quotes, you can create a competitive environment where dealerships may be more inclined to offer better prices to secure your business.

20. Utilize a Car Buying Service:Consider using a car buying service or hiring a professional negotiator who specializes in helping buyers get the best deals. These experts have insider knowledge and experience dealing with dealerships, giving you an edge in negotiations.

21. Be Mindful of “Add-On” Pricing:Dealerships often add extra costs for items such as window tinting, fabric protection, or VIN etching. Be cautious of these “add-ons” and question their necessity. Negotiate or remove them from the deal if they are not essential to you.

22. Stay Emotionally Detached:Avoid getting emotionally attached to a particular car. Emotional attachment can cloud your judgment and weaken your negotiation position. Maintain a level-headed approach throughout the buying process.

23. Use the “Four Square” Technique:When negotiating, use the “Four Square” technique. Divide a sheet of paper into four quadrants and label them: price, trade-in value, down payment, and monthly payment. Fill in the numbers you desire for each category and negotiate each one separately to achieve the best overall deal.

24. Bring a Mechanic or Knowledgeable Friend:If possible, bring a trusted mechanic or a friend who is knowledgeable about cars to the dealership. Their expertise can help you identify any potential issues or hidden problems with the vehicle, ensuring you make an informed decision.

25. Be Aware of Financing Options:While dealer financing can be convenient, it’s essential to explore other financing options, such as credit unions or banks. Compare interest rates and terms to secure the most favorable financing for your situation.

26. Look for Year-End Models:Towards the end of the year, dealerships often offer discounts on current-year models to make room for newer inventory. Consider purchasing a year-end model to take advantage of potential discounts and incentives.

27. Don’t Disclose Your Maximum Budget:Avoid revealing your maximum budget to the salesperson. Instead, negotiate based on the vehicle’s actual value and market price. Disclosing your budget may give the salesperson an opportunity to manipulate the numbers in their favor.

28. Be Prepared to Walk Out:If negotiations are not going in your favor or the dealership is not meeting your expectations, be prepared to walk out. Leaving the dealership demonstrates your willingness to find a better deal elsewhere, which may prompt the salesperson to reconsider their offer.

29. Stay Firm During F&I (Finance and Insurance):During the finance and insurance process, be cautious of additional offers and upselling tactics. Stay firm on your decisions and decline any unnecessary add-ons or extended warranties that don’t align with your needs.

30. Trust Your Gut Feeling:Lastly, trust your instincts. If something feels off or the deal doesn’t seem right, trust your gut feeling and consider exploring other options. It’s better to be patient and find the right car and deal rather than rushing into a purchase you might regret.

By combining these additional tips and tricks with the previous ones, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the car buying process, negotiate effectively, and outsmart dealerships to secure the best possible deal on your new vehicle. Happy car shopping!