If you want to negotiate a deal with a car dealer know what you want going in, understand the market value of the car, and have a budget. If a dealer will not negotiate, simply go to their competition (even between dealers of the same brand)--someone will lower the rate to get you into the car. Be sure to shop late in the year or at year-end sales when dealers are purging inventory for the new models. here are also many places to shop online and get a new car without even leaving your home.

Is it better to get a car loan from a bank or a dealer?

It is better to get a loan from the lender that gives you the best deal. Lending institutions are in this to make money and that can fuel fierce competition for your business, which gives you the advantage. Dealerships can offer great financing deals if you look around and shop the competition – and so can banks. Get rates and compare. Chances are good someone will look to beat competitor’s quotes, especially dealerships that are pressured to make sales quotas, often in lieu of actual profit on the vehicle.

How much of a down payment is required to buy a car?

All down payments are different and are determined by several factors, starting with your credit. If you have good credit you might qualify for no down payment. How much is the car? Are you buying or leasing? Is it a new or used car? Is it a dealership or an independent car lot? What are your financial capabilities? All of these will factor into your down payment and future payments. Be aware that if you go with no down payment, your actual monthly payments will be higher. You are still purchasing something over a period of time, and they have to recoup that money somewhere. Some dealers use no down payment as an incentive to lure you in, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you are paying less.

See more Tips & Advice

Helpful Reviews

Covert Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Eric L. rated

I went in for a used car and drove out in a new car at the payment I had in mind. My salesman Kenny was efficient and professional. Thank you Kenny and Irene in finance for making it fast and easy!

Covert Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Eden S. rated

Kenneth was a big help. I needed a car. im not from Austin. we communicated with info and pictures and as soon as i got there was super fast very satisfied with his professionalism. Got the car i wanted and im very happy about that.

Covert Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Clarissa G. rated

Megan C. is very friendly and knowledgeable about the whole car buying business.. She is very helpful and had a very positive car buying experience

Covert Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Roger M. rated

I want to give a shoutout and a huge thank you to Megan Carlsen for making the process of searching for a new RAM super easy and informative. This girl new her stuff and made the entire process very smooth. Let Megan help you find your next vehicle!

Covert Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Tie E. rated

So I normally don't leave reviews but I had to because I got excellent customer service from Megan this past Saturday..She was very nice helpful in my search for a vehicle. I did not leave with a new car but because of her , I am definitely thinking about going back and purchasing a new car. Great job by her . I would definitely recommend my family and friends to buy from her.

Covert Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Red M. rated

It was such a pleasure to work with Megan at Covert this weekend! She really made the car shopping experience fun and easy. Who would have ever thought those words would be used in the same sentence?! I really can’t thank her enough for lessening my anxiety about such a huge, life changing purchase. I’m so Glad I found Covert Dodge Jeep Ram & that they have such great staff! I’ll be recommending y’all to all my friends, family, and coworkers. Brava, Megan, you have a customer for life!

Town North Nissan

Jarrel J. rated

I had a great sales and purchase experience with Nate Pierre and rest of the folks at Town North Nissan. He was honest and didn't apply any unnecessary pressure, just educated me on the options and advantages for each model. I would highly recommend working with Nate on your visit...

Charles Maund Toyota

Carol S. rated

The sales reps were all friendly and nice. We even got to test drive so that was a huge plus. There were deals being offered and we liked them!

Prestige Autoplex

Chris S. rated

Curtis and Billy did an exceptional job helping me with my newer car purchase. Their cars are in excellent condition, provided me with carfax, and are great people to work with. I highly recommend giving these two a call and see what they have available.

Round Rock Hyundai

Lynn K. rated

Awesome dealership! Best new car buying experience I have ever had. I started with internet research and car reviews via a True Car search for a specific make and model with the high end trim package. My salesman Paul reached out via phone and text messages to communicate and answer questions around my crazy work schedule. Went in for a test drive of a different color, loved the car but hated the color. They found what I wanted in Dallas and got it for me. Very professional, friendly and smiling staff, from the receptionist at the desk, in the service area, and especially my extremely knowledgeable salesman Paul and finance guru James. No one was pushy and most importantly - they listened to me and to what I wanted! Then they made it happen! I couldn’t be happier!