1. Let them know you have cash in hand or financing arranged and that you’re ready to buy now. This generally helps make them more willing to make a deal quickly.
2. Don’t be afraid to negotiate on price. Start your offer low, but in the neighborhood of the car’s value.
3. Only negotiate with a salesperson you are comfortable with. If you’re not comfortable, as to speak to a manager or another salesman.
4. Decide ahead of time how high you can go. Be ready to walk away if the car dealer or individual can’t meet the price you need them to meet.
5. Don’t negotiate if you’re hungry or you’re tired.
6. Be patient. Negotiating for a used car can take a while.
7. Expect another salesperson or manager to try to close the deal if you’re not able to come to an agreement with your salesperson.

Buying a Used Car should be a beneficial experience both for you and for the person or dealer selling the vehicle.

The Exterior

Check the outside of the vehicle. Look for rust. look to see if there are any gaps between panels on the side of the car. Watch for rust or corrosion. Check to see if any of the colors ar mismatched, or if any part of the car has been repainted. Check the doors, make sure they open and close freely. Look at the tires for wear and tear.

The Interior

Look for wear and tear on the steering wheel or the driver’s seat. Test all of the electonic equipment, from power windows to the Radio. Check the heater and the air conditioner. Sit in the driver’s seat, and ask yourself if you feel comfortable. Check that all the seatbelts are there and in good repair. Look for a spare tire, jack and tire iron.

The Engine

Look under the vehicle to see if there are any leaks. Check the oil to see if it’s low, dirty or dark. Check things like corrosion on the battery terminals to see if the car has been maintained. When you start the vehicle, is there any strange ping, knock or whistle? Look for the “check engine” light, and try to smell under the hood. If it smells like burnt oil or antifreeze, there may be a leak.

The Test Drive

During your test drive, pay attention to the transmission to see if it moves comfortably without delaying or slipping. Listen for transmission noises. See whether the ride is too bouncy, indicating that the vehicle needs shocks. Test the brakes to make sure they work. verify that the brake pedal goes all the way to the floor, and that it’s not too soft or hard. Check the alignment, as well.