Getting the Best Deal on Your Next Car: New or Used

Driving away from the dealership with confidence requires some groundwork. If you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, you’ll want to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible. So, how do you navigate the path to car ownership without breaking the bank? Here are some tried-and-true strategies.

1. Research, Research, Research

Knowledge is power. Before you set foot on a dealership’s lot:

Compare Prices: Websites such as Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and TrueCar can offer invaluable insight into the fair market value of the vehicle you’re interested in.
Check Dealer Inventory: Many dealers list their current inventory online. This can give you an idea of what’s available and the asking prices.
Read Reviews: Don’t just focus on the car. Look at dealership reviews to find out about the experiences of others.

2. Secure Financing Ahead of Time

By securing a pre-approved loan from your bank or credit union, you can:

Negotiate Better: With your financing already in hand, you can focus on the price of the car rather than monthly payments.
Know Your Limits: A pre-approval provides a clear picture of what you can afford.
Possibly Get a Better Rate: Sometimes, dealerships will offer to beat your pre-approved rate.

3. Timing is Key

There are ideal times to buy a car where you might find more significant discounts:

End of the Month or Quarter: Salespeople may be trying to meet quotas and may be more willing to negotiate.
Model Year-End: Dealerships want to clear out older inventory to make room for new models.
Holidays: Some holidays, like Memorial Day or Labor Day, often have special dealership promotions.

4. Negotiate with Confidence

Start Low: After researching, you should have an idea of the car’s value. Start your offer lower than this amount and be prepared to negotiate up.
Don’t Discuss Trade-Ins Initially: Handle the purchase and trade-in as separate transactions to ensure you get the best deal on both.
Be Willing to Walk Away: Sometimes the best negotiating tactic is being ready to leave if the deal isn’t right.

5. Consider Certified Pre-Owned (CPO)

If you’re leaning towards a used car, CPO vehicles can be a great choice:

Warranty: Most CPO cars come with extended warranties.
Thorough Inspection: Certified cars go through rigorous checks to ensure they meet certain standards.
New Car Benefits: Many CPO programs offer benefits like free roadside assistance or loaner cars.

6. Don’t Overlook Online Dealerships

Online car dealerships have been gaining popularity:

Transparent Pricing: Some online platforms offer fixed pricing, which can take the stress out of negotiating.
Home Delivery: Many online dealers will deliver the car right to your doorstep.
7-Day Return Policies: Some online dealerships offer a week-long test drive.

Remember, every car purchasing experience will be different. Being well-informed and patient can make a significant difference in the deal you receive.

It’s also essential to understand that while we aim to provide valuable advice, we are not affiliated with any governmental body. Always consult your state’s official website or appropriate authorities for definitive information and guidance before making any decisions.

Happy car hunting, and may the road ahead be filled with exciting adventures and superb deals!