Buying your next car? Check out our tips for securing the best deal.

Do your homework

The most important thing to do when buying your next car is to do your homework. Looking at similar cars for sale online and in other local dealers will give you an idea of what you should be paying for the car you want. Also, if possible try to find out the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) which is the price the dealer has paid the manufacturer for the car before any more is added on for profit. If the dealer is aware that you know your stuff, you are more likely to come away with a better deal.

Be self-disciplined

Promise yourself not to buy anything on your first visit to a dealer. Instead, take the time to have a good look at the car, to gather relevant information and to take the car for a test drive. And whatever you do, don’t tell the salespeople what your budget is as they are likely to use this to their advantage.

Timing is crucial

As dealers usually run on a month to month basis, you may be more likely to get a better deal at the end of the month so that the dealer can reach their set targets. December is often a slow time for car sales so if you could time your purchase for this time of year you could well be on to something. Weekday mornings also tend to be pretty slow for car sales people, so visiting at these times rather than on a busy weekend might mean they are more willing to compromise on price, resulting in a better deal for you.

Gather several quotes

Getting different quotes from different dealers whilst making them aware that this is what you are doing will encourage them to be as competitive in order to achieve the sale. If cutting the price of a carmeans they are able to undercut their business rival up the road, it is something they might well do.

Beware of “too good to be true” offers

Car deals that are too good to be true are usually just that. Of course there are bargains out there, but if your instincts are telling you that a car is way too cheap, the most likely explanation is that there is something wrong with it that the dealer isn’t telling you about.

Following these 5 points should put you on the right track to buying the right car for you at the right price. Good luck with your search!