How To Get The Best Deal On Your Next Car

Whether you need another car to keep up with the growing needs of the family, or it’s time to trade in the old model for something a little more practical, you want to make sure that you’re not paying too much for a vehicle that doesn’t do what you need. Dealerships can be very effective at making you forget your priorities, so here are a few tips on how to put your best foot forward.

Start With Some Research

Before setting foot on a lot, know what you’re looking for. Research the car models, trim levels, price ranges, fuel efficiency, and ownership costs so you have a good idea of precisely what you’re after. Knowing what kind of car features you need, which cars suit your needs, and their general costs, including for used cars, should put you in a stronger negotiating position. Plus, research helps you avoid upsells on features you don’t need. By the time you visit a dealership, you should have a short list of models and an idea of what a fair price looks like.

Choose A Reputable Dealer

Where you buy your car matters just as much as the car you want to buy. For that reason, look for car dealerships that offer transparency, fair pricing, and post-sale support like warranties or service perks. You should take a look at their website, if they have one, to see what kind of trust badges or association memberships they have, as well as online reviews. Pay attention to how they sell cars, too, and look for those that don’t rely on high-pressure tactics and are upfront about vehicle history, financing, and fees.

Time Your Purchase

If you’re able to hold off on buying a car for a little while, it can often be worth doing just that. Dealerships often offer better pricing near the end of the month, quarter, or calendar year to meet sales quotas. You can also find great deals on outgoing models when new-year versions are released. Weekdays tend to be slower, giving you more attention and negotiating power. Even the weather can affect how much you can negotiate, as it can influence how much foot traffic dealerships get, making dealers more eager to get a sale where they can.

Don’t Skip the Test Drive and Inspection

No matter how good the price looks, don’t buy blind. Always test drive the car to assess comfort, handling, and features. Listen for strange noises, check the brakes, and test everything from air conditioning to tech systems. Make sure that any used car you look at has a full vehicle history report and ask if you can have an independent mechanic take a look at it. If any dealer refuses to let you assure yourself of the car’s condition or history, you should skip them entirely.

Reputable dealers are often more than happy to help you find the vehicle you need at the price point that suits you. It’s just important to have a game plan so you can sure to steer things towards the kind of car you need.