how to negotiate car price with dealer

Research real drive-away prices in Australia, including stamp duty, rego and dealer delivery—surprise fees are as welcome as a magpie in spring. Get pre-approved finance or bring funds; dealers smell hesitation like a wet dog. Negotiate the drive-away price, not monthly payments, and get every figure in writing. Shop quotes from multiple dealers and time your visit for end-of-month or model-year run-out when targets get twitchy. Arrive armed with competing ads (Tradingpost works a treat) and be ready to walk—silence is a powerful bargaining tool. Separate the trade-in from the car price, and if the dollars won’t move, ask for servicing, accessories or mats to seal the deal.