How to negotiate when buying a used car

How to negotiate when buying a used car
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To avoid paying too much for a used car, it is important to know how to negotiate for it, writes Okechukwu Nnodim

After understanding what to look out for before buying a used car, it is vital to improve your negotiating skills so as  not to be ripped-off by automobile salesmen. Experts note that the risks associated with used cars are enormous. It is, therefore, important to consider certain issues before spending your hard earned money on buying a used or ‘Tokunbo’ car.

As stated in one of our articles, buying a used car is dicier than buying a new one. Experts and automobile dealers say used vehicles often have many hidden problems which the buyer may not know. However, there are negotiating skills which the prospective buyer needs to have in order not to pay so much for a cheap used vehicle.

Experts advise the buyer to seek the assistance of a professional automobile dealer or an engineer before making a purchase. They note that a professional can also help in the negotiating process and this will save cost for the buyer.

Some of the things which the buyer needs to know as discussed in our first article on what to know before buying a used car include setting an adequate budget, getting a reliable car model, thorough examination of the car, ability to decide on a specific price range, and choosing between an expensive or a cheap car.

In this piece, we shall be discussing the cogent points to know while negotiating for your car. Below are what to know when negotiating for a used car, according to experts:

Start with a low but reasonable offer

According to car dealers, it is advisable to open negotiations with an offer that is low but in reasonable range. They note that this will make the dealer know that the prospective buyer has interest in his car and will make the dealer ready to complete a deal. Experts say before you go to get an idea of how much cars you are interested in are worth, you should start negotiations with a number that is about 10 to 15 per cent lower.

Get a trusted dealer

Finding a dealer you can work with and whom you trust is another issue to consider. An automobile dealer at Ojo, Lagos, who simply gave his name as Nnamdi, says you need to feel comfortable with the salesman you are working with before you can buy a car from him. He notes that the prospective buyer should pay attention to first impressions received from the dealer. People usually know within a very short period after meeting someone whether or not they will get along with them, experts say. If you feel uncomfortable about your salesman or car dealer, don’t ignore that feeling, there might be a reason why you are not comfortable with the salesperson.

Avoid being ignored

Experts say you should always device means not be ignored by the dealer, as some do this to make you feel less important. They note that one of the tricks car dealers use to get you to make a hasty decision is to ignore you for a while. According to automobile mechanics, you should not let this happen. If you cannot find someone to help you within a time limit that you decided on ahead on time, then the best option is to leave the automobile store.

Be calm while negotiating

During the negotiation process, always be calm and calculate well. Experts say you should take your time and do not let the salesman rush you. According to professionals, salesmen often try to make it seem urgent like you are going to lose out if you don’t buy immediately. They use words like ‘this is the last model,’ just to make you hurriedly make the purchase. Dealers may tell you that they will not get any more for sale until next year just to trigger your desire to pay immediately. But do not fall for that. Experts say you have all the time in the world and you can very likely go to a number of other dealerships for the same vehicle if you do not mind.

Leave if pressured

If you feel like leaving for any reason, leave. It might even be a good idea to plan to leave for some reason and tell the salesman when you will be back. According to experts, this may cause them to make you a better offer. They note that if you are being pressured or hassled excessively, just walk out and if the dealer does not chase you down, then go somewhere else to buy your car in order to suit your desire.

Steer clear upgrades

Car dealers love upgrades and extras when they see prospective buyers. Experts say dealers will try to throw in a bunch at the end, for an additional fee. But it is advisable to stick to what you have already decided that you want to buy.

Display adequate confidence

Be confident in yourself when you approach a dealer. The right confidence will prevent the car dealer from trying too hard to take advantage of you. Experts add that if you have done your research and know what to expect, then don’t be afraid.

Know exactly what you want

It is good to do your research before you enter the dealership store. Know the exact car that you want, including options, and what that should cost before you even start shopping. According to experts, you should stick to your plan, because the dealer will try to upgrade you at more than what the vehicle is worth if you are not careful.