Tips to Get the Best Price on a New Car

Buying a new car can be overwhelming for many car shoppers. Car dealers use many tricks and sales tactics to squeeze profit out of every deal--and sometimes they are successful. Don't let shopping for a new car wear you down; learn tips to get the best price on a new car.

Wait to have your trade appraised

Get your price first--before you have your trade appraised. Throwing a trade-in vehicle in the mix can help the dealer fudge the numbers, leaving you unsure of what you are actually paying for the vehicle or getting for your trade-in.

Trade over-allowance means a dealer is showing you more for your trade than what it is worth, and simply taking the profit out of the deal. This is done to discourage customers when they shop other dealer's quotes--another dealer's price may be lower, but their offer for the trade is too.

Waiting to have your trade-in appraised will ensure you are dealing with real numbers and not inflated ones.

Be wary of dealer add-ons

Don't be fooled by shady dealer add-ons, such as rustproofing, fabric guard or theft recovery. Most of these items provide little benefit to you and lots of profit for the dealer.

Pay attention to the number on the vehicle's actual MSRP sticker--not the dealer-added sticker attached next to it, unless the add-on is a legitimate one, such as a DVD player or a spoiler. Even then, you should pay attention to the price of the option. If the addition is overpriced, negotiate with the dealer or choose another vehicle.