Negotiating A Deal
Generally, the price shown on the sticker is not the price you will need to pay! It’s often possible to negotiate considerable discounts.
The important thing is to do your research. Before viewing the car, check cars of similar model, age and spec from as many different sources as possible - online, local newspapers, other dealers etc..
Be realistic in your expectations but, at the same time, don’t be afraid to make an offer which you believe reflects the true value of the car. Show your research if necessary - private sellers in particular often have an inflated idea of the true value. With used cars, you can use any minor faults you have found to haggle the price down.
If you are buying from a dealer, remember to include a tank of fuel and a set of mats into the deal. It may be possible to have them include a warranty as well - the dealer is paid a commission for selling you a warranty and will take that into account. If the warranty deal doesn’t seem that good, remember you can buy one yourself independently - it is, after all, just an insurance policy. Make sure you know what’s covered and under what circumstances.
If you are not happy with the price, be prepared to walk. It’s easy to get into the frame of mind that this is going to be the only car you will ever want - but there are millions of used cars for sale. There’s probably a better one round the corner.
When you negotiate with either a private seller or dealer, make sure you have a cash deposit with you (credit/debit card is ok for most dealers), this way they will take you seriously.
If a dealer believes you are a serious buyer and he knows you have the deposit money with you and he thinks you really will walk away if the deal is not good, he will do everything he can to close the sale. He may not make you feel like it, but the bargaining strength is definitely with you.
What are you doing with your old car? If you are buying from a dealer, you may be able to trade it in. If so, don’t negotiate the trade in price too early - wait until a price is agreed, then introduce the trade in. Click ‘here’ for information on how to negotiate a trade in.
If you can’t agree the price, walk away but leave your phone number. Sometimes, particularly with private buyers, when they can’t get the price they want, they’ll get on the phone. It happens surprisingly often.
