Car Buying Tips – Best Practices Michigan

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The governments new car allowance rebate system (CARS) gives consumers a financial incentive to purchase a more fuel-efficient vehicle while turning in their old vehicle for scrap. Be mindful however, that car buyers do not have to sign an agreement to pay back the credit amount if the car dealer rejects the deal. While the details of the new program are posted in participating CARS dealers, what car consumers really need to remember is how to leave their emotions out of the transaction and how to negotiate the best deal possible.

Leaving your emotions out of the transaction is easier said then done. If you are not willing to walk away from it, you stand a very good chance of paying too much. Be honest with your sales representative. Let him know up front if you find the right automobile and what you are willing to pay. This will give the dealer the incentive to give you the best possible deal or risk losing your business. The better prepared you are the easier and more pleasant your car buying experience should be.

Come prepared. Know what you want before you walk on the lot. You don't need to know exactly what make, model, and color, but you should have a basic idea. It is also a good idea to know whether you would like a new car or a used car. Often the payments for a used car can end up the same as a new car. That's because banks usually charge higher interest rates on used cars.

Talk price not payments. Never talk payments with the dealer. Negotiate on the price of the car only. If a dealer talks only payment with you, it usually means they are avoiding the real issue -price. On the other hand, many people finance their cars and all that really matters is getting what they want for a payment they could afford.

Many sales representatives are taught to get you thinking payment rather then price. If you do your homework you will know what price automobile fits your monthly budget. All car loans and lease contracts will fully disclose the cars price. In the case of a loan, it will usually be listed as the "cash price" for vehicle. In a lease, the price will usually be marked as the "cap cost". The base price for the automobile (before tax, license, documentation fee, any other state or local fees and any dealer added options) should be exactly what you and the sales people agreed on.

Finally, never feel uncomfortable asking your car dealer questions. And remember that you are always free to walk away from the deal. So keep asking questions until you are comfortable that all of your concerns have been addressed.

If that doesn't work, ask for all the numbers in writing, and let them know you are going review everything and call the next day with your decision. Many salespeople will do almost anything to prevent your from walking. That's because statistically, only one out of every 50 people will actually come back to the dealership. Do not fall for "this deal is only good today". Unless there is a factory program ending that day (rebates, special financing or dealer incentives) and they can prove it in writing, there is no reason they won't offer you the same deal tomorrow.

For more car buying trade-in tips, cash-for-clunker advice, consumer rights and warranty information, lemon law lawyers and discount legal and financial services visit GotTrouble.com