Top 10 List – Negotiating Tips For Used Trucks

A top truck buying guide might suggest the following list of the top 10 negotiating tips for buying a used truck.

As a smart used truck buyer you can use all of the following strategies. Some of these seem to be common sense, but there may also be some that may not have occurred to you.

So take a look:

1. First of all, know that the salesman is not your friend, yet, it is important to maintain the proper relationship with him or her. It won't take you long to realize how you feel about the assigned agent; pay attentionn to your instincts. If you don't feel comfortable, ask for someone else!

2. Ignore this negotiating tip at your own peril. Many people fall victim to this one: Decide on how much money you are willing to pay before you step foot on the lot. If your target price is exceeded -- and you believe it to be reasonable -- don't play their games, just leave the truck dealers showroom.

3. Take the initiative. Let the sales agent know you are in charge by making an opening offer for the vehicle. The negotiation can start low, but don't make it ridiculous, or you will not be taken seriously.

4. Do not allow yourself to be 'rushed'. Despite what the sales person may want you to believe, you are not going to 'lose out' on anything for not buying immediately. This same vehicle can likely be purchased at any number of dealerships within a 50 miles radius. So take your time!

5. You can even take the above a bit further and reverse the psychology to work in your favor! If for any reason you'd like or need to leave "unexpectedly", just politely excuse yourself, and get up and go. Tell them a day and time convenient for you that you will return. This gets their attention and respect.

6. And by all means, if you are being hassled, or if you suspect that they are using high-pressure techniques on you, then let them know that you won't be treated that way; politely get up; leave. If they don't become apologetic and attempt to keep you from leaving, then simply go elsewhere.

7. Turn down all of the add-on options and equipment that they claim to be 'throwing in'. For used truck buying, this is an extremely important negotiating tip. Heed it. These extras are NOT free. Vehicle dealers make thousands of dollars by 'up-selling' you with extended warranties, tires for life, and other gimmicks. Turn them down -- or you will pay dearly.

8. Take a deep breath before entering their 'den'. The more relaxed and confident that you can come across, the better. One way to do this is to educate yourself on their scams and dirty tricks before becoming another victim. Truck buying guides are available to 'forewarn' you. The best of these are often written by jaded ex-insider whistle-blowers, many of whom were sickened by what the dealerships expected them to do to their customers.

9. Know the make, model, year and exactly how you want your truck equipped. Don't be tempted by efforts to lead you in another direction or to another vehicle. Stick to your guns. Again, be prepared to walk out if you must.

10. Don't be surprised if they play some version of good-salesman / bad-salesman (like good-cop / bad-cop). They may try to bring out 'the big guns' to try to improve their position, either on the price or the financing. Do not let this tactic throw you. Hold your ground. You'll save big if you do!