Negotiation Tips When Buying Used Cars

It takes diligence to find a gem of a used car. Whether purchasing from a used car dealer or from a private owner, there are a number of things to look out for: Mismatched paint or areas that appear to be spray-painted over may hide defects. Scratches and dents, especially on the front bumper and grille, could mean the car has travelled a lot.

Know how to spot tell-tale signs of tampering (worn pedals coupled with a low mileage, for example) so you don’t get duped. Never buy a car that you haven’t taken on an extended test drive, and make sure you check for leaks in the engine. Bring a reliable mechanic to look the car over for you.

Once you’ve found the car you want to buy, make sure you don’t appear too eager to close the sale. Body language and tone of voice have much to do with your car’s final purchase price. If you appear much too excited, the seller will sense that you might be willing to offer top price, and you’ll lose your buyer’s advantage. It pays to do your research before you take a look-see, so that you know what to look for and can ask intelligent questions. It is best to appear friendly, yet knowledgeable and sensible about your car needs.

Niagara auto dealers offer a wide range of used car models to suit your preferences. If you are still shopping around, look at cars within and slightly over your maximum budget. This way, you know what types of cars you can afford and, if necessary, can save up some more to buy the car model you want.

If you fall in love with a car that costs just a little more than you’re willing to pay, haggle rather than settle for your second choice. Always ask your Niagara auto dealer for his best price on the car, so that you can better gauge the real price of the vehicle. If asked for your budget, mention an amount at least 20% less than the maximum amount you’re willing to shell out—this way, if the seller asks you to bump up the price a bit, you’ll still be within your budget.

If you cannot agree on a price, it is fine to walk away. After all, there are a lot Niagara used cars available on the market, and you may still find a better deal elsewhere, Chances are, though, the dealer will meet your price rather than lose your business. If you play it smart, you may just get the deal of a lifetime.