How to negotiate a used vehicle?
Discover our practical tips for successfully negotiating the purchase of a used car and saving several thousand francs.
At RG Automotive, we know that buying a used car is both exciting and risky. Our advice: leave nothing to chance and use a clear method to secure your purchase while saving several thousand francs.
🚦 The golden rules
- Never ask for the « final price »: base your negotiation on concrete facts.
- Avoid written exchanges: be careful with WhatsApp or Facebook, always prefer verbal communication.
- Prioritize direct contact: trust is built through voice and face-to-face interaction.
📞 The opening
« Hello, I'm looking for a BMW M3 E36 and yours really caught my eye. Since I don't live nearby, I'd like to make sure of certain details before making the trip. Can I ask you a few questions? »
A friendly and polite tone inspires confidence. Our advice: show genuine interest, not haste.
🔍 The essential points to verify
1. Origin and history
- Imported vehicle? If so, from which country?
- How many previous owners?
- Date of last technical inspection?
- Last service performed?
- Maintenance log and invoices available?
Watch out for: an incomplete file = more arguments to negotiate.
2. General condition
- Mechanics (noises, warning lights, performance)
- Bodywork (scratches, dents, rust)
- Interior (upholstery, dashboard)
- Accident history
Did you know? Even a small bodywork repair can cost more than CHF 1'000.–.
👀 On-site inspection
During the visit, list the restoration costs to justify your offer:
- Service + oil change: CHF 500.–
- New summer tires: CHF 600.–
- Discs + pads: CHF 800.–
Total: CHF 1'900.– to deduct from the asking price. That's a concrete negotiation lever!
💰 The Ackerman method
Example: the seller is asking CHF 15'200. Your target = CHF 11'670.
- Initial offer = 65% → CHF 9'500
- Second offer = 85% → CHF 12'900
- Third offer = 95% → CHF 14'440
- Final offer = CHF 11'670 – 12'000
Always conclude with a precise figure (e.g. CHF 11'670): this proves your calculations.
⚡ Psychological tips
- Praise the vehicle (« It's beautiful, it's rare to find one in this condition »).
- Assert that you are a serious buyer.
- Leave strategic silences after your offers.
✅ Conclusion
Buying a used car is a mix of information, arguments and psychology. By applying these rules, you can save up to CHF 3'500. At RG Automotive, we apply these methods to guarantee our customers the best value for money.