When it comes to buying a new car or trading in your second hand car for a much more expensive one, ‘negotiating’ is one of their master talents.
Once you step onto a car dealer’s lot, you are on their turf. It all can seem overwhelming and exciting – smiling car dealer salesmen, mysterious models, high-tech cutting-edge components and equipment. But, here’s where you need to play your ‘cars’ right to avoid getting haggled into an unfair car sale. Test driving a few cars do not always make it worth the price – you’ll notice when your car dealer starts to talk ‘prices’, and when you do, here are 10 things you should NEVER tell a car dealer.
#10 “I DO NOT KNOW MUCH ABOUT CARS.”
If you do not know much about cars, your car dealer will; and that will not make anything easier. Car dealers are always ready to make some good profit off from a car sale. So, when it comes to haggling you, a car dealer will leverage on the most complex automotive jargon so that they have much higher bargaining power.
There’s nothing better then stepping foot into a car dealership without getting swindled into an unfair deal. With some online research, you can learn much more about the new or pre owned cars you are interesting in buying. If you’re trading in your second hand car, start by knowing the resale value of your car. On www.carzar.co.za you can get an estimated value for your car and book an obligation-free inspection.
#9 “NO THANKS, I’M JUST LOOKING”
Did you know that car dealers sell cars at optimum prices to people who are assumed casually ‘just looking’. That is why most car dealers love those three little words, despite its insinuation of wanting the car dealer to ‘stay away’. But, car dealers are used to this phrase and they have picked up the trend that deep down, you’re actually mentally planning your first or next car purchase – whether you know it or not. Why are you on the lot in the first place? And so ‘WOW’ discussions about pricing, packaging and vehicle finance begins… all because you were “just looking”.
If you really want to stop yourself from blurting out the hackneyed phrase, respond with a question about the car – perhaps, its trimlines or fuel consumption.
#8 “I AM BUYING IN CASH.”
Let the car dealer know you are a buying a car with cash during all the haggling and you’re bound to hit a roadblock. When the time comes, you’ll have miles of bargaining power to negotiate a much  higher discount on your next purchase and you will not incur any hidden retails costs.
#7 “MY CAR IS A RIGHT-OFF, SO I NEED A NEW SET OF WHEELS.”
One thing you do not want to express to a car dealer is desperation! You might just find yourself settling for less or more than what you really need. So, play it cool and stay neutral.
#6 “I MUST HAVE THAT CAR!”
Although it’s human nature, do not show emotional attachment to a new or second hand car, as car dealers will leverage on this to haggle you into a deal they want.
#5 “MY CAR TRADE IN VALUE IS PROBABLY NOT WORTH MUCH . . .”
Telling a car dealer that your second hand car isn’t worth much is a definite ‘no-no’. The car salesman will, generally, determine your car trade in value. If you want to find out your car value then get an estimate online car valuation on car buying sources such as CarZar.co.za. That way, you will not be surprised about the resale value of your car, provided by your car dealer.
#4 “IT’S MY FIRST CAR PURCHASE!”
If it’s your first car purchase, you’ll be at a disadvantage – that’s, however, if you let the car dealer know this valuable piece of information. Why? Well, you’ll have to deal with upselling and stressful pressure. Ask a few questions about the car instead of embracing your excitement about your first car purchase.
#3 “I DON’T WANT TO BE RIPPED-OFF BY A CAR DEALER.”
Sometimes you just need to hold back and compose your emotions. This will definitely not give you the best deal for a new or pre owned car. Instead, gain some knowledge about the car’s you’re interested in by doing some research about the current trade in value of particular cars.
Remember, not all car dealers are fiddlers. If you’re looking to sell your car and buy a new one, let us advertise your car to our nationwide network of dealers to help get you the best price the market is willing to pay. With cash in hands, you’ll increase your bargaining power and have the flexibility to make your new car purchase at any dealership, without getting locked into a deal with a car dealer who does not have the car you desire.
#2 “I NEED MONTHLY VEHICLE FINANCE OF MAXIMUM  R. . .”
Before visiting a car dealer, it’s important to first determine your car affordability based on your monthly salary and budget. You will then be able to calculate your monthly vehicle finance repayments, before sealing a vehicle finance deal you might regret a few months down the road. Check out our Car Affordability Calculator and Vehicle Finance Calculator.
#1 “THERE’S NOT MUCH ON MY CREDIT CARD.”
If you’re looking to get the best deal for your car trade in, saying this will reduce your chances. If you do not have much on your credit cars, it’s best to shop around for the lowest interest rates. Your ‘plan Z’ should be getting vehicle finance through a car dealer; however, take careful not of the car loan details of the car finance package plan. If you’re outsourcing your car finance, the car dealer will try to get you the highest possible interest rate, so that they can get a reasonable slice of the pie.
At CarZar, we pay more for your car with the best offers nationwide!

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