17 Expert Tips for Outsmarting Your Car Dealer

Trade-In Negotiation Tactics

When trading in a car, dealers may use questions designed to make you undervalue your vehicle. For instance, they might ask about certain features that your car lacks, aiming to prompt a negative response and reduce your perception of its worth. To avoid falling into this trap, it's important to research your car's value using tools like the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) and keep this number in mind during negotiations.

Another key strategy is to always keep your car keys with you. Dealers know that if you’re without them, it’s harder for you to walk away from the deal, giving them