What else has value in a deal?

One question you should ask yourself is “Other then price, what else has a value to me?”  There are a few things…….

When you are negotiating price and “working” your deal, it’s hard to keep yourself aware of the other things that matter.  Many things effect the long-term price of a vehicle but when you are in the heat of battle it’s hard to keep track.

Things like the location of the selling dealer. If you are going back to the selling dealer for service, every 25 miles is  $4 or $5.  Over the life of the vehicle that is huge, gas and wear.

If you are going to take your vehicle to a dealer that didn’t sell it, don’t be fooled. You will not receive the same service and consideration that the person who purchased there did in most cases.

Another item that can be huge is a loaner vehicle. Does your selling dealer loan a vehicle to his service customers? This is another potential expense saving advantage.

How many times will you need to come back for a repair?  Certified master techs aren’t every where you go.  but they can be very important.  Do they have pick up and delivery if you need it and do they wash your car every time you come in for service? Do you receive any special discount because you bought your vehicle from them?

How big is the parts department.  If your vehicle breaks down do you wait for parts or are they in stock?  Another potential problem if the parts department is small.

What about the waiting are, the bathrooms and the amenities?  Are the bathrooms clean?  Is there WiFi for your computer and TV for the kids?  Are there healthy foods and drinks available in the amenities area?  These sound silly but they are not silly when you need them.  A clean bathroom can be an issue and so can the others.

You could make a big list.  How much you are willing to pay for those is up to you but if the prices are within a few hundred dollars of each other, this information might be a good way to choose which deal.

About Geoffrey Jerome

I am a 35 year veteran of the automobile and motorcycle industry, author of nine published books, soon to be ten, Both fiction and nonfiction. I have two super kids, actually adults. I am Formerly from upstate New York, Ithaca. I like photography, technology, podcasting
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