How to Negotiate at a Car Dealership

How to Negotiate at a Car Dealership


Whether you have bought a car before or are looking for your first vehicle near Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield, and Detroit, Michigan, knowing how to negotiate is essential. Below, our LaFontaine Volvo Cars of Farmington Hills team has outlined how to negotiate at a car dealership.

If you have questions as you explore, please contact our team!

Ways to Negotiate When Buying a Car

There are several ways you can set yourself up for success when buying anew car, from coming prepared to being patient. Some of the things you can do to set yourself up for this success are discussed below.

Know Before You Go: Arm yourself with knowledge. Research the make and model you're interested in and its market value. Websites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds can give you valuable insights into pricing and features. When you walk into the dealership well-informed, you're already miles ahead.

Set Your Budget and Stick to It: Before negotiations begin, determine your budget and be firm about it. Knowing your financial boundaries empowers you to make decisions confidently and helps the dealership understand your limits.

Patience Is a Virtue: Negotiation is a dance, not a sprint. Take your time, and don't rush the process. If the initial offer isn't what you hoped for, don't panic. Politely express your concerns and be willing to walk away if necessary. Often, patience pays off in securing a better deal.

Focus on Total Cost, Not Monthly Payments: While it's tempting to fixate on monthly payments, remember that the total cost of the car is what truly matters. Ensure you negotiate based on the vehicle's overall price, including any additional fees and taxes.

How to Negotiate at a Car Dealershipe

Be Prepared to Walk Away: One of the most powerful negotiation tools at your disposal is your willingness to walk away. If the dealership isn't meeting your expectations or budget, don't hesitate to politely thank them for their time and explore other options. Sometimes, this alone can prompt the dealer to improve their offer.

Utilize Timing to Your Advantage: The end of the month, quarter, or year can be advantageous times to negotiate. Dealerships often have numbers to meet, increasing your chances of snagging a better deal as they strive to reach their targets.

Leverage Pre-Approved Financing: Arriving at the dealership with pre-approved financing from your bank or credit union gives you a powerful negotiating position. It shows the dealer you're serious and allows you to focus solely on the vehicle's price rather than financing options.

Maintain a Positive Attitude and Respectful Demeanor: Negotiations are collaborative efforts. Approach the process with a positive attitude and treat the salesperson with respect. Building a rapport can go a long way in fostering a mutually beneficial outcome.

Consider Extras and Incentives: Don't forget to inquire about additional perks or incentives the dealership may offer, such as extended warranties or complimentary services. These can add value to your purchase and potentially sweeten the deal.

Learn More About Working with Us Today!


Whether you are ready to take the wheel of a new vehicle, or you are just beginning to browse, we hope our guide on how to negotiate at a car dealership proves helpful.

Have questions? Contact our team here at LaFontaine Volvo Cars of Farmington Hills. We’re proud to serve Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield, and Detroit, MI, area drivers and we hope to assist you soon!


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