Can You Negotiate the Price of a New Car?

The sticker on the car window indicating the price isn’t set in stone. You can indeed talk to a dealer to try to get the price down.

Knowing how to negotiate car price in Bentonville, AR doesn’t require savvy orator skills. Here are some strategies to help you negotiate at the dealership.

Research the Model

Know beforehand the model and specific trim of your interest. This also includes any add-on accessories or packages you’re considering. Research the model and know its sticker price.

It also helps to research similar models and/or trims to see how the prices compare. This way, you have a price point in mind to begin negotiations from.

Be Willing to Foot a Larger Down Payment

Having the means to foot a larger down payment may give you more negotiating power. This also helps you secure a loan as it shows lenders you have immediate funds on hand. A 20 percent down payment is usually the recommendation.

Consider Outgoing Models

With the 2023 models rolling in, dealers will provide offers on the 2022 inventory to clear space for the incoming models. The same goes for vehicles that are in overstock. Dealers may be more than willing to negotiate with these models.

Negotiate Car Trade-In

You can also negotiate your current car’s trade-in value if you plan to trade at the dealership. For more negotiating leverage, be sure to take care of any necessary repairs and fix cosmetic imperfections. The better the car’s condition, the more leeway you have for negotiating for a higher trade-in value.

With the right negotiating skills, you can acquire a model like the Mazda CX-50 slightly below the manufacturer suggested retail price. Don’t be afraid to talk to our friendly dealers about pricing and financing.