How much less can you offer for a used car

If the seller has other potential buyers, then know that you could lose out on the car if you wait. Lost Your Order? Dealer Login FR. Vehicle History Vehicle History. Car Maintenance Car Maintenance. Tools Tools. Resources Resources. Blog Support Centre. Buying or Selling a Used Car?

Get the Full History! Get Report. Oops, lost your order? Please enter the same email address you used to purchase and we'll send a link to your order. Look at the current market value price and set your opening offer a good deal lower, but still in the ballpark of what the dealer might accept. Negotiating with a private party owner is a bit different. If they drop the price a bit, you can then come back with an even lower offer. But leave very slowly — this might prompt a better offer. Instead of stewing in a cramped sales office, put an end to it immediately.

Tell the salesperson your time is limited and you need an answer immediately or you will leave. Raise your opening offer by smaller and smaller increments. Often, upon reflection, they will accept your offer later. Another approach is to look for a way to sweeten the deal without raising your price. For example, you could point out that a smog inspection is required but you would be willing to pay for that.

Or point out that registration fees are due soon so you will have to pay those fees if you buy it now. As you near an agreement, the salesperson might try to complicate the deal by offering extras such as a free maintenance plan. Ask for a breakdown of the fees or an out-the-door price, which will smoke out any extra fees.

You should be paying only the price of the car, sales tax in most states , a documentation fee and registry fees. These are high-profit items for the dealer and you can usually buy them later for a lower price. Also, this is when you can compare any financing offered by the dealer against your preapproved loan terms.

In most cases, you need to get a clear title and a bill of sale. Negotiating for a used car with a private party is more relaxed than going up against a car salesperson. This makes it especially important to check pricing guides beforehand. However, here are a few more tips on how to negotiate for a used car:. Become a Member. Remember Me. Forgot username or password? Not a member? Need further assistance? Please call Member Services at Subscribers only Sign in or Subscribe now! Forgot password?

Check this box if you wish to have a copy mailed to you. Choose from cars, safety, health, and more!