Department | Vehicle Purchasing

What to Do When You Go to the Dealer

Who likes going to the auto dealer? This can be such a tough process, especially when you know that they are only out to get what is best for them. You need to know the tips and tricks on how to deal with this bunch in order to get the best deal. You can be in control of this process; you just need to know how to work it. Here are some things you can do to make sure the trip to the dealer works out in your favor.

While at the Dealership…

If you do something that implies to the dealer that you have a lot of money, then you will probably not get that great of a deal. They will think that you can afford any number that is thrown your way, so there is no reason why you should get a good deal. You have probably heard the rule “dress to impress”. Well, while at the dealership, forget that rule! Don’t dress like you are going to a fancy dinner or church. Just throw on some plain-looking clothes and go.

Along those same lines, do not drive your best car to the dealership. Leave that BMW at home when you go look for a new car. You do not want them judging your other cars and coming up with a price because of it. It is a different story if that is your only car and you are trading it in. If you can, however, pick a different car and go in that.

One thing you need to remember is not to hand over your driver’s license. This puts them in control. They can literally hold the ID hostage until you give in. It is a way to wear you down. The minute you hand your license over, you can forget about a good deal. Make some photocopies of the license, and you can give those out. Make sure you write “no credit checks authorized” on the copies. That way, they will not be able to sneak away and check your credit.

When you are there, make them think that you have all the time in the world. Do not be rushed, and do not tell them if you are in a hurry. Go at your own pace. If they try to rush you, then slow them down and tell them you are hesitant. If they really want your sale, they will not mind waiting around for it! But if you appear rushed, then they know you will probably sign whatever is put down in front of you.

Remember to read through your contract one last time when you finalize the deal. It is just a precaution. You do not want them to sneak anything into the contract at the very last second without your knowledge.

Use the Tips

They may sound a bit shady, but these tips will help. Car dealers tend to get a little sneaky with you, so why not give them a taste of their own medicine? You need to get the best deal possible, so use every tip you can.