When it comes to negotiating with car dealers, your words can make or break your chances of getting a good deal. As an experienced negotiator, I’ve learned the hard way what not to say. Here are some key phrases to avoid if you want to increase your chances of getting a great deal:
1. “I’m ready to buy now.” This gives the dealer leverage to negotiate a higher price. Instead, take your time and let them know you’re considering all your options.
2. “I can afford this much per month.” Sharing your budget gives the dealer an opportunity to manipulate the numbers to fit your monthly payment, rather than negotiating the actual price of the car.
3. “Yes, I have a trade-in.” Wait until you’ve negotiated a price for the car before bringing up a trade-in. The dealer may offer less for the trade-in to make up for the good deal on the new car.
4. “I’m only buying the car with cash.” Negotiate the price first, then decide whether to pay with cash or finance. This gives you more leverage in the negotiation.
5. “I’m not sure…which model do you think I need?” Do your research beforehand to avoid being swayed by the dealer’s upselling tactics.
6. “Oh, I’ve wanted one of these all my life.” This tells the dealer you’re emotionally invested in the purchase, giving them an advantage in negotiations.
7. “I’ll take whatever the popular options are.” Research the options available and decide which ones are necessary for your needs. Popular options typically come with a higher price tag.
Remember, other products like extended warranties and add-ons should also be avoided until after the price has been negotiated. Approach negotiating with confidence and choose your words carefully to secure the best deal possible.
As a car blogger, I’ve seen and heard numerous stories of people making costly mistakes when dealing with car dealerships. These dealerships are a business, and just like any salesperson, they are trying to make the most amount of money possible. Unfortunately, many people get caught up in the excitement of buying a new car and end up saying the wrong thing. Here are some things you should never say to a car dealer.
“I’m ready to buy now”
Walking into a dealership and telling them straight away that you are ready to buy can be a costly mistake. Dealerships always want to get the best deal for themselves, and if they know that you are ready to buy, they may not be willing to negotiate on price or other options. It’s best to keep your enthusiasm in check and take your time before making a decision.
“I can only afford this much per month”
Many dealerships will push their financing options on you, but it’s important to remember that you are not required to use their financing services. Telling a dealer that you can only afford a certain amount per month can back you into a corner and limit your options. Instead, focus on the total price of the vehicle and negotiate accordingly.
Key point: Financing options are a business for dealerships, so it’s best to keep your options open and not limit yourself.
“Yes, I have a trade-in”
While trade-ins can be a great way to save money, it’s important to research the value of your trade-in before going to the dealership. Dealerships may offer you a lowball price for your trade-in, so being knowledgeable about its true value is important. Don’t mention your trade-in until after you have negotiated the price of the new car.
Key point: Dealerships want to make money on both the new car and the trade-in, so being knowledgeable about the value of your trade-in can save you money.
“I’m only buying the car with cash”
While paying cash may seem like a good option, it’s important to remember that dealerships make money on financing options. Offering to pay in cash may limit your negotiating power, as they won’t have the opportunity to make money on financing. Keeping your payment options open can give you more bargaining power.
Key point: Financing options are a big part of a dealership’s profit, so limiting your payment options may limit your bargaining power.
“I’m not sure…which model do you think I need?”
Being unsure of what you want can put you in a vulnerable position with a dealership. They may offer you a more expensive car or options than what you actually need. Before going to the dealership, do your research and come prepared with a list of models and options that meet your needs and budget.
“Oh, I’ve wanted one of these all my life”
While it’s common to get excited about a new car, expressing too much enthusiasm can put you in a weak negotiating position. Dealerships want to sell cars, and if they know that you are emotionally invested, they may be less likely to budge on price or other options. Keep your emotions in check and focus on the facts of the deal.
“I’ll take whatever the popular options are”
Though dealership staff may tell you that certain options are popular, it’s important to determine whether these options are necessary or just add unnecessary expense. Researching the options ahead of time will give you a better idea of what you need and save you money.
Other products to avoid mentioning to the car dealer
There are other products that dealerships may push on you, such as extended warranties or special coatings. Some of these options may be helpful, but it’s important to do your research ahead of time and determine if they are worth the extra cost. Don’t let the dealership pressure you into buying something you may not need.
In conclusion, going into a dealership prepared and knowledgeable can save you time, money, and reduce stress. Avoiding these common pitfalls can put you in a stronger negotiation position and ensure that you get a good deal on your new car. Remember, dealerships are in the business of making money, so approach the deal with a clear head and keep your options open.