5 Simple Tips To Avoid Falling For The Most Common Car Dealership Tricks

Ready to cruise out of that dealership with a new set of wheels? Before you rev up your engines, make sure you're not driving off with a deal that'll sour faster than last week’s milk. Car shopping can be a wild ride, with pitfalls bigger than potholes. So, here are 7 tips that’ll help you steer clear of buyer's remorse and ensure you grab that dream ride without much regret.

1. Walk in With a Game Plan

Don't just waltz into a dealership without a clue. That's a straight path to a financial facepalm. Image: Dall-E 3 — *Don’t just waltz into a dealership without a clue. That's a straight path to a financial facepalm. Image: Dall-E 3*

Wandering into a dealership without a plan is like heading to a buffet on an empty stomach: you might end up biting off more than you can chew. Know your car's value, understand what you can afford, and have a clear idea of your financial limits. This prep work is your best defense against a bad deal.

2. Stick to Your Guns

*Know that dealerships love to push cars they need to clear out. Image: Dall-E 3*

Dealerships love to steer you towards whatever they need to sell. If the car they're pushing isn't what you want, don't get sidetracked. Be firm about your choice because, at the end of the day, you're the one driving away in it.

3. Time Your Trade-In Chat

*Talking trade-in too early in the game can mess up your deal dynamics. Image: Dall-E 3*

Hold off on talking trade-ins until you've nailed down the price of the new car. Jumping the gun can complicate negotiations, especially if you owe more on your current car than it's worth. Get the new car's price set in stone first, then talk trade.

4. Keep Your Keys and License

Some old-school dealers might try holding onto your car keys or driver's license during a test drive to keep you in the dealership longer. Image: Dall-E 3 — *Some dealers try holding onto your car keys or license during a test drive to keep you in the dealership longer. Image: Dall-E 3*

Some dealers might ask for your keys or license during a test drive as a way to keep you in the showroom. Don't fall for it. You need your license with you, and your keys shouldn't be a bargaining chip.

5. Hold Off on Credit Checks

Hold off on letting the dealership run a credit check until you're close to sealing the deal. Image: Dall-E 3 — *Hold off on letting the dealership run a credit check until you’re close to sealing the deal. Image: Dall-E 3*

Wait on that credit check until you're sure about the purchase. Each hard pull on your credit can ding your score, so save it for when you're close to sealing the deal.

6. Don't Just Focus on Monthly Payments

*Focus on the total cost of the car, not just the monthly payment. Image: Dall-E 3*

It's not just about fitting a car payment into your monthly budget. Focus on the total cost of the car. Long loan terms might reduce monthly payments, but they'll cost you more in the long run.

7. No Rush to Buy

*Just breathe and remember: the car market is hot, but deals aren't disappearing overnight. Image: Dall-E 3*

Feel like you're being rushed to close the deal? Take a breath. The "today only" price pressure is a classic sales tactic. Remember, the market is brimming with options, and taking your time can lead to better deals.

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