What Should You Not Say To A Car Salesman?

As a car blogger with years of experience, I’ve seen many potential car buyers make mistakes when speaking with car salespeople. One of the most common things that people should never say to a car salesman is “I’m ready to buy now.” While it may seem like a confident statement, it can actually put you at a disadvantage. This statement gives the impression that you’re not willing to take the time to research and compare prices, and the salesperson may not take you as seriously since they know they have a potential buyer lined up. It’s important to take your time, ask questions, and explore all of your options before committing to a purchase.

Another dangerous phrase to use when speaking with car salespeople is “I can afford this much per month.” While it’s understandable that people want to negotiate based on their monthly budget, it’s important to understand the truth about car payments. Car salespeople can manipulate the payment amount by extending the length of the loan term or adding hidden fees and expenses. Always negotiate based on the total purchase price of the vehicle and only then consider the monthly payment amount. This will help you avoid falling into a financial trap that you may regret later.

When it comes to trade-ins, there’s a right way and a wrong way to handle the situation. Saying “Yes, I have a trade-in” to a car salesman can be a red flag since it lets them know that you may be looking for ways to negotiate the purchase price. It’s important to have a clear understanding of your trade-in’s market value before speaking with a salesperson. You should also be prepared to negotiate separately for the trade-in value and the purchase price of the new vehicle.

Limiting your payment options by saying “I’m only buying the car with cash” can also have negative repercussions. While it’s true that paying with cash can potentially save you money in interest fees, it can also limit your negotiation power. Car salespeople often make a commission based on financing deals, meaning they may be less likely to offer discounts or negotiate a lower purchase price for cash-paying buyers. It’s always a good idea to explore your payment options and negotiate for the best possible deal.

Asking “I’m not sure…which model do you think I need?” may seem like a smart question to ask, but it can actually be a trap. Salespeople are trained to push for a higher-priced model or add-on features that you may not need. It’s important to do your research beforehand and have a clear idea of what you’re looking for in a vehicle. Be firm with your needs and don’t let a salesperson push you into an unnecessary purchase.

The emotional factor in car buying can also be problematic. Saying “Oh, I’ve wanted one of these all my life” can give a salesperson the impression that you’re emotionally invested in the purchase and may be willing to pay more than you should. It’s important to keep your emotions in check and stick to your budget.

Finally, understanding the value of customization is crucial. Saying “I’ll take whatever the popular options are” can demonstrate a lack of research and understanding of your specific needs. Many car dealerships offer customization options that allow you to build a car tailored to your lifestyle and budget. Take the time to understand what options are available and customize your purchase accordingly.

Aside from the dangers of the phrases mentioned above, it’s also important to be aware of the dangers of cross-selling and upselling. Car salespeople are trained to push additional products such as warranties, add-on features, and extended service plans. It’s important to research the value and necessity of these products before committing to a purchase.

In conclusion, car buyers should be aware of the nuances of speaking with car salespeople. By avoiding certain phrases and understanding the value of research and negotiation, buyers can make their car buying experience more positive and financially sound.

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