What are the best questions to ask when buying a used car? And what are the worst questions? Believe it or not, there actually is a right and wrong way to go about shopping for a pre-owned vehicle. So if you’re in the market for used cars fresno, be sure to avoid asking these five questions. Otherwise, you might end up with buyer’s remorse!
Worst Question #1: “What’s the Asking Price?”
When you’re looking at used cars, it’s important to remember that the listed price is almost never the final price. In fact, most dealers expect customers to haggle over the price of a used car. So when you ask a dealer what the asking price is, you’re essentially giving away your negotiating power.
Instead of asking about the listed price, try asking about the dealer’s bottom line. This question will let the dealer know that you’re serious about buying a car and that you’re not afraid to negotiate.
Worst Question #2: “What Kind of Financing do You Offer?”
Asking about financing options before you’ve even agreed on a price is a huge mistake. The dealer will likely try to push you into a more expensive car that’s outside of your budget.
Instead of asking about financing, wait until you’ve negotiated the price of the car. Once you’ve agreed on a price, then you can start talking about financing options.
Worst Question #3: “How Much for Your Trade-In?”
If you’re planning on trading in your old car, it’s best not to mention it until after you’ve agreed on a price for the new car. Otherwise, the dealer might low-ball you on the trade-in value in order to offset the cost of the new car.
It’s always best to sell your old car separately before buying a new one. That way, you’ll get the most money for it. But if you must trade in your old car, wait until after you’ve negotiated the price of the new car before mentioning it.
Worst Question #4: “Can I Take the Car for a Test Drive?”
Of course you want to take the car for a test drive! But asking this question too early on is a mistake. The dealer might try to pressure you into making a decision before you’re ready.
Instead of asking about a test drive, wait until you’ve negotiated the price of the car. Once you’ve agreed on a price, then you can talk about taking the car for a spin.
Worst Question #5: “When Can I Pick Up the Car?”
Asking about picking up the car before you’ve even agreed on a price is a bad idea. The dealer might try to rush you into making a decision.
Instead of asking about picking up the car, wait until you’ve negotiated the price. Once you’ve agreed on a price, then you can talk about when you’ll be able to take possession of the car.
By avoiding these five questions, you’ll be in a much better position to negotiate the best possible price on your next used cars fresno. So don’t let the dealer take advantage of you – know what questions to ask (and which ones to avoid) before you step foot on the dealership lot.
