Used car negotiation advice??

1399steve

Hi all,

Off to look at a second hand car tomorrow and looking to trade mine in as part of the deal.

I'd appreciate any tips to get the best possible deal for myself?

Cheers!

anewman

Depending on the car it may be more worth your while selling your current car yourself.

1399steve

I could almost certainly get more for my existing car on a private sale. I reckon I could get approx £2400 privately and would be looking for around £2100 as a trade in (was offered this recently but by the time I'd made up my mind, the car I was looking at had been bought by someone else).

Looking to trade in to save the expense (valet, autotrader cost etc) and hassle of private sale as I have sold my last two cars privately and can't face the time wasting and tyre kicking brigade!!

Hintza

For a couple of hundred quid I think I would just trade it in as you say yourself it is the hassle factor and strangers at the door etc.

Ivenofinmoney

Steve,

I am not sure if it's too late, but I don't think anyone actually answered your question.

I never part ex as it weakens your position in the deal, before you discuss part ex values, make sure you get the very best price you can on the new car, diffuse discussions about the value of your car - I would say something like "We can talk about my car if the deal is right"

Make sure the dealer knows you are serious, something like "I can do the deal today if the price is right"

Your girlfriend / wife saying "it's lovely" is a salesman's dream If as me you need approval from the OH for these purchasing decisions, brief her before you go in, we usually have a signal "I'm not sure about the color" means I quite like this one, "It sounds a bit expensive" means I approve the purchase ! (If she's not with you or even if she doesn't exist, a good trick is to 'Call her' to talk about how much you spending, come back and say she will only let me go up to .....)

Even if your not make them think you might be interested in finance, these guys get massive commission from the finance deal, I always say "I' may need to finance the deal, do you offer that service ?" then when the price is agreed tell them their finance rates are too high (although sometimes you can get some cracking deals on finance as well if required)

Know when to shut up, after you make an offer DO NOT SPEAK !! If it's below their margin price they will knock it back instantly, if they think they can push you for more they will usually let it hang, in the hope you will increase your offer.

Once you've reached an acceptable price go for the extras (Tank of petrol, Road Tax, Carpet Mats) I usually go for the road tax ... "throw in 12 months rent and you've got a deal" Then hold out your hand and again SHUT UP ! 9 times out of 10 they will counter with 6 months tax, and the deal is done !!!

If buying privately go armed with pound notes and have them stashed strategically in your pockets 1st offer in your jacket pocket) get it out and say theres £nn here I can take it off your hands today. Strategic increments in your pockets allow you to wave more cash during the negotiation.

Good luck !!