You don't think the way a used cars dealer does. For him, transacting used autos is how he makes living. Giving in to your haggling means less of the commission money ending up in his pocket. For you, it's all about trying to get the best price you think is fair. But, lacking some serious argument you'll probably accept what a used cars dealer is offering you. Besides, how often are you learning anything about used cars? Very rarely, unless you're a car buff, for whom cars in any shape and size are the daily topic.

Any used cars dealer can recognize if you know what you want. Visiting a car yard and showing great excitement about some flashy automobile without knowing much about its mechanical condition, will demonstrate to a used cars dealer your low level of experience. This alone, makes you vulnerable to being conned. Only the most honest used cars dealer will resist the temptation If very little, you should spend some time familiarizing yourself with its mechanics, particularly any common problems and faults that the car is known to have. This will put you into a better negotiating position with a used cars dealer.

Being prepared means that you have to decide firstly on which type of used cars would suit your needs. Forget about what you want, as this will only play right into the used cars dealer's hands. You need to ask yourself what type of car will suit your lifestyle - are you married, with children, or single and out to create an impression?

So, what's your driving style? Do you need a fast car, or just an economy model? Can you afford to pay a little extra for the luxury appointments and accessories? How about a diesel engine? How many passengers are going to be driving? These factors are of critical importance, and need to be considered beforehand.

Finally, what is your idea of the best used car deal, and how much can you really afford to pay? Once you have all this information write it down and take it with you. This is your guide to keep you safe from falling victim to the smooth talking salesmanship of the used cars dealer who will play on your wants rather than your needs.

Homework also means that once you have identified your needs, you must then look at vehicles that comply. There are such an enormous amount of makes and models of used cars to choose from that it makes sense not to limit yourself to one or two different types. You need to research independent reviews and such things as the availability of spare parts.

How can you get one better with a used cars dealer? Simple. Know what you want, and how much you're prepared to pay for the used car you've in mind. You'd be surprised to know, how many prospective buyers don't have a clue what's the going market price is for a used 1995 Toyota Supra is. Do you know how to get almost as good, as a used cars dealer? Try to learn as much as you can, about the car you want. In other words, when you enter the car lounge you need to know what's good and bad about a particular model. How popular it is, and what's its current asking price. To acquire all this knowledge you don't have to study Blue Book, or read classified ads for months. Just concentrate on it for a week or so. Better still, visit a few car yards, and see what they are asking.

Don't think that a used cars dealer is invincible. Just mention a competing car dealership down the road, and what they are asking for the car you're interested in, and every used cars dealer will start treating you with respect. Locating competitive deals around will help you in convincing any used cars dealer that you've done your homework.