Do mention you have financing already lined up until the very end.
Avoid saying you "love" the car or that your current vehicle is "on its last legs". clark howard buying a new car
: To keep your finances healthy, aim to put 20% down, limit the loan term to 48 months (4 years), and ensure total vehicle expenses stay under 10% of your monthly income. What to Keep to Yourself Do mention you have financing already lined up
For money expert Clark Howard, buying a new car should be a transparent and honest transaction rather than a high-pressure negotiation . His core philosophy is to do your homework ahead of time to avoid common dealership pitfalls. Clark's Key Rules for Buying New What to Keep to Yourself For money expert
: Do not negotiate based on monthly payments. Instead, focus strictly on the total "out-the-door" price, which includes all taxes and fees, to ensure you aren't overpaying.
: Only buy new if you plan to keep the vehicle for at least 10 years. Because new cars depreciate so rapidly in the first few years, keeping them for a decade or more is the only way to make the math work in your favor.