how much below the sticker should you offer for a used car?

Question

if a used car is being sold for $9000 at a used car lot, how much should i ask to pay?

Answer 1

Katherine, you’re asking the wrong question.

The question should be – “How much over dealer cost (or low book value) should I buy a car?”

If you don’t know what the dealer cost should be (or low book value) – you need to do more homework.

The previous posters have suggested several places to determine dealer cost or low book value. (If the dealer has more invested in the car than he should – that’s not your problem).

Next you need to evaluate the cars condition and marketability. Ask for maintenance records. If the car is between 60,000 and 100,000 miles - research the next major tune-up and timing belt replacement interval. That service can cost between $600 and $1200 (and definitely affects a cars value).

If the car is in perfect condition with ‘like new’ tires and desirable - it might be worth retail book.

It’s not uncommon to offer $500 over cost for both new and used cars.

Good Luck

Answer 2

Offer 20% less than they are asking. They won't go for it at first, but you'll get a call from them if they think you're serious. $7200 in this case is hopefully reasonable, though some dealers mark up higher than 50%. It is unbelievable how cheap cars are at private dealer auctions. You can check KBB.com or NADA.com. Those websites should give you a ball-park figure of what the car is worth. Best bet is to find someone you know who is good at this sort of thing. Check eBay for pricing on similar models. This should get you started.

Answer 3

A lot of unknowns there, but figure on getting the used car dealer down by 20-30 percent. Offer $6000 and don't go above $7800. When you start counting $100 bills on the table, he will pay close attention. If you are financing, your bargaining position is reduced so try to get cash.

Answer 4

You should look up the Kelly blue book value first and then write down the vin # of vehicle and see if it has been in any accidents that could be on record. when and if you find that info, haggle the price if you don't offer a lower price how will you know . Plus if the person is really easy in getting the price down fast and really wants to get rid of it something might not be on the up and up. Good luck.

Answer 5

First make sure you check kelly blue books web site to determine the cars value. WWW.KBB.COM. Wouldnt hurt to get a carfax report either, the dealer should provide you with one if they really want to sell it. Id start at about 7500 and work from there. Shoot for around 8000-8400.

Answer 6

you could try for $7,000 but they will probably not go for that but they make at least 2 to 4 thousand on a used car, the name of the game is to keep haggling with them and if they don't meet your price you want to pay get up and walk out.

Answer 7

Well KAT it all has to do with the condition of the car ,for example the mileage of the vehicle the ware and tear on the suspension the condition of the interior......

Answer 8

Used cars don't have stickers.

Answer 9

$8250