Abc News Car Buying Tips (PREMIUM ⟶)

: This is a buyer's most powerful tool. Dealers want your money and often hate the idea of a competitor getting the sale.

: Holidays or the end of the month, quarter, or year are often good times to find motivated sellers.

: With trade-in values remaining strong in 2026, get multiple appraisals online and from local dealers to ensure you capture your car's full value as a negotiating tool. Used Car Shopping Tips abc news car buying tips

: Reference resources like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book to determine the True Market Value (TMV) and invoice price before visiting a dealer. Budgeting and Financing

: Avoid the "monthly payment" trap. Dealers often use monthly budgets to hide the true cost of the vehicle, interest rates, or expensive add-ons like extended warranties. : This is a buyer's most powerful tool

ABC News offers a variety of car-buying tips focusing on negotiation strategies, budgeting, and inspection to help shoppers avoid common pitfalls like overpaying or taking on unmanageable debt.

: Avoid being the first to buy a newly released model, as high demand allows dealers to charge MSRP or higher. Waiting a few months for inventory to stabilize can lead to better deals. : With trade-in values remaining strong in 2026,

: Contact 5 to 10 dealerships and have them bid against each other to drive the price down.