Used Cars Dealer Doesn’t Have To Win With You!

It's very difficult to negotiate a good deal from a used cars dealer, and unfortunately a great many people are simply ripped off. These dealers are experts. Maybe if you bought as many cars as they sold, then you too would become an expert buyer and be able to win on all your deals. For most of us however, the used cars dealer is someone we may see every couple of years, when it is time for a vehicle upgrade, which is hardly enough time for us to sharpen our buying skills. Even buying new cars can have its problems, but used cars are a minefield for the unprepared and the unwary.

It is important that when you go looking at used cars, you go prepared. Any used cars dealer worth his salt will be able to tell immediately if you have done your homework or not. Buying a used car is serious business, and not just a matter of visiting the nearest dealer showroom and picking the prettiest looking car at the right price. Unless you want to become the owner of something totally unsuitable, then this is simply not the way to go.

Being prepared means that you have to decide firstly on which type of used cars would suit your needs. Forget about what you want, as this will only play right into the used cars dealer's hands. You need to ask yourself what type of car will suit your lifestyle - are you married, with children, or single and out to create an impression? Where do you live - there is a big difference from suburbia to the rugged outback particularly in driving conditions? Is your vehicle needed for your hobbies - camping or off-road driving?

Finally, what is your idea of the best used car deal, and how much can you really afford to pay? Once you have all this information write it down and take it with you. This is your guide to keep you safe from falling victim to the smooth talking salesmanship of the used cars dealer who will play on your wants rather than your needs.

Homework also means that once you have identified your needs, you must then look at vehicles that comply. There are such an enormous amount of makes and models of used cars to choose from that it makes sense not to limit yourself to one or two different types. You need to research independent reviews and such things as the availability of spare parts. You also need to know what the selling price is of these cars. You would be surprised at the number of people who don't take the time to check this very important point. If it comes under their budget they think they have a good deal. Pity is that they don't.

The Internet is a great place to start your search on locating a used cars dealer. Not only this, but you will be able to find market prices, availability, insurance costs and so on. If luck is with you, then you may be able to find similar vehicles at several dealers which means you should be able to negotiate a much better deal. If one dealer will not make you a good offer it is very comforting to know that you have a fall back offer, and can tell them you can get a better deal down the road.