Oh, you’re buying a new car—what fun, what a sight!
A shiny new vehicle, sparkling and bright!
But before you sign papers and drive off with cheer,
There are things you should negotiate—so listen up, dear!
You might think that the price of the vehicle is the only thing you can haggle over. But oh, there’s much more to discuss! From your trade-in and financing to dealer fees, warranties, accessories, and even the terms of a lease, there are plenty of places where asking questions can potentially save you money.
So whether you’re shopping for a new Hyundai in Memphis, TN, comparing dealerships, or simply trying to get the best possible deal, here are 10 things to negotiate besides the vehicle price.
1. Dealer Fees — Oh, What a Fee!
Dealer fees can appear here.
And some may make you scratch your ear!
Ask for a complete list before you sign,
Know every charge and every line.
Some fees may be required, some may not,
So ask the dealer what each one has got.
Don’t simply say, “What is my payment today?”
Ask for the out-the-door price in a clear, straightforward way!
2. Your Trade-In Value—What Is It Worth?
Oh, your old car has value, you see,
So find out exactly what that value may be!
Get your trade-in appraisal separately.
And compare what other buyers might pay.
Don’t let the trade and new-car price
Become one giant number that isn’t precise.
Know what your vehicle is worth before you go,
And you’ll have much more negotiating power to show!
3. Financing and Interest Rates — Compare, Compare!
Oh, what a rate!
Don’t choose one too late!
A dealer may offer financing that looks just right.
But your bank or credit union might offer another rate.
Compare the APR, loan term, and total interest, too,
Because the lowest payment isn’t always the best deal for you.
A longer loan may make payments seem small,
But you could pay more interest overall.
So compare your financing before you say yes,
And you’ll understand your loan much better, no less!
4. Extended Warranties — Don’t Rush the Decision!
Oh, warranties! What should you do?
Is an extended warranty right for you?
Don’t simply accept the first price you see,
Ask what the coverage actually happens to be.
What’s covered? What’s not?
What’s the deductible you’ve got?
And here’s another thing you should know:
You can ask whether the warranty price can go lower before you go!
Take your time and understand the plan,
Then decide whether it fits your ownership span.
5. Dealer Add-Ons — Oh, My, What a Surprise!
Here come the add-ons, marching in line,
Some may be useful, and some may be fine!
Paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen-filled tires,
Protection packages and other extras for buyers.
But don’t assume you need every accessory in sight.
Ask which items are optional before you sign right!
If you don’t want an add-on, simply say so,
And ask whether it can be removed before you go.
The important thing is knowing exactly what you’re paying for,
So there are no surprises when you reach the closing door!
6. Accessories — Mats, Racks, Tint and More!
Oh, floor mats! Oh, cargo trays!
Roof racks and tint for sunny days!
Accessories can add up before you know,
So ask about discounts before you go.
Perhaps you want a cargo liner or two,
Or maybe window tint is something for you.
If you’re purchasing accessories anyway,
Ask whether the dealer has a special price today.
Negotiate the package, negotiate the cost,
And you’ll know exactly what you’re gaining or what you’ve lost!
7. Down Payment — How Much Should You Put Down?
A down payment may look like a mountain so high,
But don’t let assumptions make you pass it by!
Ask how much is actually required today,
And understand how different amounts affect what you pay.
A larger down payment may reduce your monthly bill,
But don’t drain your savings just for the thrill.
Look at your complete financial picture instead,
And understand the numbers before they’re spread.
The goal isn’t simply to put down the most,
It’s finding a payment and loan structure you can handle the most!
8. Monthly Payment — Don’t Let the Number Fool You!
Oh, the monthly payment looks lovely and small,
But there’s another number you need to call!
Don’t focus only on what you’ll pay each month,
Because loan terms can change that number a bunch.
A longer loan may lower your payment with ease,
But it can increase the total interest you pay with the fees.
Ask for the out-the-door price, loan term, APR,
And total amount you’ll pay before driving your car!
Know the whole deal from beginning to end,
And you’ll be a much smarter car-buying friend!
9. Lease Terms — There Are More Things to Discuss!
If leasing is your plan, don’t simply agree,
There are several important numbers to see!
Ask about the mileage allowance you receive,
And understand excess-mile charges before you leave.
Check the money factor and acquisition fee,
And ask what the capitalized cost will be.
Find out about wear-and-tear rules,
Early termination and other lease tools.
A lease has many moving parts, it’s true,
So understand every number before you say, “I’ll take two!”
10. Documentation and Delivery Fees — Ask Away!
Documentation fees may appear in the stack,
And delivery charges may sneak right back.
Ask what each fee is for,
And whether it is required or something more.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions at all,
Because understanding the paperwork can prevent a costly fall.
Read everything carefully before you sign,
And make sure the numbers all look fine!
Keep the Numbers Separate — That’s the Trick!
When buying a vehicle, here’s a wonderful rule:
Keep every part separate and don’t let numbers fool you!
Talk about the new-car price first,
Then discuss your trade-in and what it is worth.
Then look at financing, fees, and extras, too,
So you know exactly what each number will do.
When everything gets bundled into one little pile,
It can become difficult to understand after a while.
But when you separate every part of the deal,
You can see what’s negotiable and what’s actually real!
Buying a Car in Memphis? Do Your Homework!
If you’re shopping for a new vehicle in Memphis, TN, take your time and compare dealerships.
Get quotes in writing when possible, compare the out-the-door price, understand your trade value, and review financing before signing.
And remember this little rhyme as you shop:
Don’t just negotiate the price and stop,
Look at the whole deal from bottom to top!
Ask lots of questions, take your time,
And make sure every number looks just fine!
A smart car buyer doesn’t have to be pushy or rude.
Simply ask good questions and understand the deal before making a decision.
And when you’re ready for a new Hyundai in Memphis, come see David Woods at Wolfchase Hyundai and make sure you understand every part of your deal before you drive away!
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