3 Types of Car Dealers Where You Can Still Haggle on Price

The automotive market has never been hotter and unfortunately, this means that there’s very little room left to haggle down the price of a new or used vehicle. However, if you know where to look, you’ll still be able to flex your negotiating muscles and get a great deal on your next car, truck, or SUV. Today, we’ll take a look at three places where you can still haggle the price of a vehicle.

Work with Mom and Pop Car Dealers

Whether you live in a small town or a bustling metropolis, mom-and-pop auto dealers are still around and are one of the best places to haggle on your next vehicle purchase. Unlike big chain car dealers, mom-and-pop car dealers typically sell used vehicles, and a small selection of certified pre-owned vehicles.

This limited inventory can mean big savings for you. When working with a small used car auto dealer, you’re more likely to score big savings on your next vehicle purchase. If you’re not sure what you’re doing, bring along a mechanic you trust to help you shop as this will offer you peace of mind with the vehicle you’re purchasing.

You should also know the value of the vehicle you are eyeing, what it’s worth in the current market, and any other issues like cosmetic damage, or lack of upgrade packages that can bring the price down further.

Do Business with Your Local Car Dealers

Steer clear of the big box dealerships and turn to your local car dealers instead if you want an opportunity to haggle down the price of your next ride. Local dealerships that sell new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles are typically invested in their community and are more willing to negotiate the price than a larger dealership might.

If you’re bringing in a vehicle to trade, that’s going to be a great opportunity to bring down the price even further. If you’re finding it hard to bring down the cost of a new or used vehicle, be sure to work the angle of haggling extra add-ons like maintenance services and vehicle accessories.

Shop with a Private Seller

Shopping from a private seller remains the best place to haggle down the cost of a used vehicle. It’s important to note that shopping from a private seller is not for everyone. Unfortunately, while the savings are steep, so too are the risks. When you buy a vehicle from a private seller, you are shopping “as is” and you don’t have the same peace of mind that a reputable dealership can offer you.

If you decide to buy from a private seller, you must bring along a trusted mechanic if you don’t have a deep understanding of vehicles and what to look for as far as mechanical issues go. Doing your due diligence, vetting out the seller, taking the car out for a test drive, and giving the vehicle a thorough inspection can help protect you further. If you find the right seller and know what to look for, you can snag some great savings when you shop this route.

Bonus Tip: Negotiate With Your Employer

While this next tip doesn’t quite cut our list, it’s certainly worth noting if it can apply to you. Companies that provide their employees with a company vehicle typically have a program in place that allows the employee to purchase the vehicle once it’s time to upcycle the fleet.

If this applies to you, this can be a great place to haggle the price and get a newer vehicle at an incredibly competitive price point. The same rules apply when haggling with your employer, however, you’ll notice that an employer may be more flexible to let the vehicle go as it’s more cost-effective for them.