How to Negotiate a Used Car Price

2021 Cadillac XT6 at sunset
 

When you’re buying a used car in the Nixa area, you might be concerned about whether you’re getting the right price. If you don’t know how to negotiate a used car price, it might be downright anxiety-inducing. At Thompson Cadillac we want to make sure everyone gets a fair deal on a used car. We want you to feel comfortable negotiating a used car price with us if you think we’ve overpriced a used car. Learn more about how to negotiate a used car with us. 

 

 

A Few Tips on How to Negotiate a Used Car Price

Before we get to the steps for negotiating a used car near Ozark, take a look at a few pointers on how to approach the negotiation when you know what to look for in a used car

  • Keep the conversation light, but be direct, focusing on your researched facts.
  • If a salesperson makes you feel uncomfortably in any way or attempts to strongarm you into a deal, simply walk away. 
  • Write down the price you’re offering and have printouts from your research handy. Don’t rush. You can take your time and consider what’s being offered when you’re negotiating a used car price. 
  • Don’t allow yourself to be led into a negotiation if you’re not ready. Wait until you’ve done some research and you’re equipped with the numbers and facts. 
  • Don’t hesitate to walk. If you feel like you’re not making any progress, it’s okay to leave. 

Steps for Negotiating a Used Car Price

Know What You Can Afford

This is the most important step for Republic drivers who are negotiating a used car price. Start by using our monthly payment calculator, then figure in the costs of owning the vehicle you want: sales tax, insurance, registration, maintenance, fuel, and potential repairs. J.D. Power and Associates is a great resource for the cost of ownership. 

Research Car Values 

Once you’ve chosen a few cars in our inventory, research them to see what the exact same year, make, model, and features have sold for in Springfield recently. You can find this information through resources like Cars.com, Edmunds, and Kelley Blue Book. Print this information and bring it with you when it’s time to negotiate for a used car. 

Ask for a Lower Price (If You Choose) 

If our initial asking price is higher than the cars you’ve researched and you think the pricing should be lower, ask for a lower price. Remember the tips we mentioned earlier. Tell the sales associate that you’ve researched the car’s market value and have seen it selling for lower prices nearby. Write down the price you’d like to pay, or have a printout of a similar car with a lower price, and present it to the associate. If you’re ready to buy the car at your proposed price right then and there, say so. Remember to keep the conversation light and focused on research.

Get More Shopping and Finance Tips From Thompson Cadillac

We hope you now see that negotiating a used car price isn’t something to fear, and it’s a great way to strike a deal that’s fair for both parties. If you’d like to learn more about how to buy a car, check out our car-buying tips for more inside information. 

 

More from Thompson Cadillac

  • Explore the 2023 Cadillac XT4 Interior

      If you’re dreaming of a new SUV for your Springfield drives but don’t want one that’s too big to maneuver through downtown, you owe it to yourself to explore the 2023 Cadillac XT4! The Cadillac XT4 is a small luxury SUV with a big personality! What should you expect from the Cadillac XT4 interior?…

  • 2023 Cadillac XT5 Price & Trim Levels

      A compact luxury SUV is a great way for families and individuals to get a feel for the finer things. Starting at $44,195 MSRP, the 2023 Cadillac XT5 price is affordable for many Nixa and Ozark shoppers, making luxury attainable. The three Cadillac XT5 trim levels offer the features and choices that make it…

  • 2023 Cadillac XT5 MPG

      Driving a luxury SUV through the Ozark hills and curves around Nixa and Ozark doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fuel efficiency. Just choose a 2023 Cadillac XT5! When properly equipped the Cadillac XT5 gas mileage can reach up to 29 mpg. Find out how to get the best Cadillac XT5 gas mileage, and…

Get Directions

1555 E. Independence St., Springfield, MO, 65804
Thompson Cadillac 37.1429, -93.2683.