Buying a Car • Mercer County, WV • 4 / 4

Making the Deal and After You Buy • Mercer County, WV

Negotiate total price, review add-ons, and protect yourself after purchase.

Negotiate Smart

• Negotiate the out-the-door price: This is the total cost (not the monthly payment). The monthly payment is just that total divided by months. Dealers focus on monthly payment because it hides the real cost.
• Watch for dealer tricks like "This deal is only good today!" or "We can get you financed right now!" Don’t feel pressured by a salesperson. Take time to decide.
• Another dealer trick is hiding the total price; the dealer might say "We can get you into this car for just $300 a month!" This hides the real cost. A $300 month payment could be $17,000 over 60 months. Always know the total price.
• Do not let the person selling the car add extra stuff like extended warranties, paint protection, or fabric guards. These are usually not worth the cost.

• GAP insurance covers the gap between what you owe on the loan and what the car is worth if it gets totaled. Example: You owe $15,000 but the car is worth $12,000. GAP insurance covers the $3,000. Consider buying it from your insurance company, not the dealer as it will likely be much cheaper.

• This law protects you if a car has serious problems that cannot be fixed. It covers both new AND used vehicles under manufacturer’s warranty. Most used cars are no longer eligible. If you have a problem and you know your car is still under the manufacturer’s insurance, notify the manufacturer in writing right away. Keep all service records.

• Register your car with your local DMV within 10 days. Get insurance before you drive. Follow the manufacturer maintenance schedule for routine things like oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements. This keeps the car running, protects your warranty, and saves you money over time.

• Once you buy a car, make a plan to set phone reminders for oil changes and inspections. Keep all service records in a safe place.