First and foremost, if you are a woman wanting to buy a car, new or used, and are not the type that enjoys challenging the men around you, just bring a man with you.  Seriously.  So much less hassle.  Everything from the fake compliments, to questioning the number of credit cards on your TRW, to trying to convince you that every car falls apart immediately so you just have to buy the added warranty to keep yourself safe. 

Know What You’re Talking About

If you want to go the challenging route, be sure you know a few things about cars before you begin looking.  At least, do a little research on the vehicle you are interested in.  A few tidbits of background knowledge will let the salesman know, of at least think, that he’s dealing with someone who knows what they are talking about and he will be less likely to fling a lot of bull around just to make a sale.

Ask for a SalesWoman

No kidding.  I know a middle-aged woman who had a showroom full of men breaking their necks to service her in a professional manner, and all she did when she walked in was demand to speak to a saleswoman.  Of course, they didn’t have a saleswoman, so when she turned to walk out, the show began.  The dealerships know that there are other dealerships selling the same vehicles, and holding this over their heads may be the best way to get fair service.

Be Willing to Walk Away

Again, there are other dealerships.  If you feel at all uncomfortable with the way you are being treated there is no reason not to walk away.  Do not let anyone pressure you into a sale, no matter how much time they have spent with you.  It’s their job.  And let them know that, if necessary.  Many times, the salesmen are just convinced that women only buy a car because they like how it looks.  Hey, many times, it’s true.  Big deal.  This does not mean that just because a woman is doing the purchasing, that she’s going to be so emotionally attached to the color of a car that she will settle for any price.

Know How Much You Want to Spend

And phrase it as “this is what I can afford”, and stick to it.  The dealer will need to know what your income in, if you are choosing to finance, but he does not need to know what all of your financial obligations are.  He will try to convince you that you can afford that extra $50 a month.  Tell him he is wrong.  You have other financial obligations that are none of his business, and you will not spend more than XX amount.  If he continues to push, see the previous recommendation.