Car Dealer Negotiation Tactics: Add On Central

You've negotiated the contract, worked out the kinks, and it's all been approved. What could possibly go wrong? Unless you've seen the final breakdown, you might have a surprise on the way! Read this article to learn more about expensive add-ons, and how to deal with them!

You are a master negotiator. You talked the price of your car down just where you want it, increase the amount earned on your trade-in, and are comfortable signing a contract. Seem too good to be true? It probably is! Don't get too confident until you see the final break down, or you'll be in for a shock! Chances are the dealer has a few extra fees to add on top of everything. From delivery and handling to an appearance package, a few 'modest' fees can quickly add up to thousands of dollars!

Edmunds, www.edmunds.com, calls this part of the negotiations 'Sporking!' If you aren't familiar with the word, a spork is a cross between a spoon and a fork. In other words, it isn't deadly, but it can cause some serious damage! That's how these fees work. They may not seem intimidating, but consider that you'll be paying not only the cost of those fees, but their interest for the life of your auto loan. What's more, many of them are ridiculous and unnecessary - just another way to stick it to you at the end! It's not uncommon, for instance, to charge a used car purchaser a fee for something that was considered standard for that particular model when the car was initially released, such as a keyless entry remote or security system.

Ask your salesperson or the business representative working with you to explain what each is. If something sounds fishy, speak up! You'd be amazed by how many of these little fees can, and will, be removed if you're diligent enough to catch them! For more information on dodging this and other sneaky dealership tactics, visit Edmunds!

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