If kbb.com says a car's value is $14,250 & the dealer's ad price is $18,999, where would you start bargaining?

The dealer seems to be reputable (at least with the BBB), I had the car taken to be checkout at a trusted mechanic and everything is in order. I've not negotiated before and I'm a bit intimidated. I've bought 2 cars before from private sellers that were very honest and fair. From the outset of each of those instances, I knew I was getting the better end of the deal.


Haggling with a dealer and the dreaded used car salesman is totally different for me. I think I should start bargaining at about $12,000 and work up from there. The car is in good shape cosmetically and mechanically but I wouldn't say excellent or showroom perfect. Is this a good, bad, or ugly place to start? The car is a 2003 Mercedes Benz C230 Kompressor.|||The dealer purchased the vehicle from the previous owner for wholesale, approx 30% lower than KBB value. They will try to get every dollar above that price that they can. If you have decent credit the cards are in your hand....start be requesting the invoice, then offer them there transportation fees back. You are now at zero....they will NOT go lower than this. At this time you can start negotiation. You are aware of the Fair Market Value established by KBB, so remind them that they need to move product. If you can qualify for the loan with a realistic APR, in there eyes THEY HAVE A SALE!!! There next move will be to extort as much from you as they can. Once you have a number in your head, stick to it! It can be worth the extra 2 hrs you will spend at the dealership to save thousands...especially in this day and age. I know this may sound passe, but if there is any possible way bring a very large man with you. They tend to treat you with a little more dignity and respect if there is a chance they might get slapped out of their chair :-)|||youre off to a great start but youre starting a little too low. Start at 14000 and tell them thats what kbb says. But reputable dealer rarely use kbb for their prices. If they dont budget, give them your finaloffer


andmif they dont take it, walk away and see if they come after you. Sometimes they will negotiate because either the car has been there too long or they just want to get rid of it. Good luck