shopping for your car

Negotiating the Best Deal

When negotiating a car loan or lease, which of these strategies is it wise to avoid?

  1. Take a trusted family member or friend with you to help navigate the process if this is your first car purchase.
  2. Take advantage of all the "extras" the sales staff recommend.
  3. Avoid telling the salesperson whether you plan to buy or lease until you've negotiated a price.

"B" is correct. Sales people often try to sell buyers extras like rust-proofing or extended warranties. Don't be pressured or fooled. These extras may be nice, but they probably aren't necessary and will add to the cost of your vehicle. Make sure you know what features you want before visiting the dealership. Once you're there, stick to your guns.