8 Tips to Help Get a Discount on a Used Car

Buying a used car doesn’t mean you always have to accept the asking price. In fact, most sellers expect some level of negotiation - and with the right approach, you could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

The key isn’t being pushy. It’s about being prepared, confident, and knowing how to position yourself as a serious buyer.

Here are 8 useful tips to help you get a better deal⁵.

5. This information is general in nature and is for information purposes only. It is not financial advice.

1. Do Your Research Before You Inspect the Car

Before contacting the seller, compare similar vehicles on sites like Carsales, Gumtree, and Facebook Marketplace.

Look for:

• Same make, model, and year
• Similar kilometres
• Comparable condition

This gives you a clear idea of what the car is actually worth - so you can spot overpriced listings and negotiate with confidence.

2. Point Out Flaws (Politely)

No used car is perfect - and small issues can help justify a lower price.

Look for:

• Worn tyres
• Scratches or dents
• Interior wear
• Missing service history

You don’t need to be confrontational. Simply highlighting these points (and the cost to fix them) can support your offer naturally.

3. Time Your Purchase Right

Timing can play a bigger role than most people realise.

You may have more negotiating power:

• At the end of the month (dealers chasing sales targets)
• Around public holidays
• During slower sales periods

When sellers need to move stock, they’re often more open to offers.

4. Be Ready to Buy on the Spot

One of the strongest advantages you can have is being ready to act immediately.

If you’re prepared:

• Have your finance sorted
• Bring ID and required details
• Be ready to leave a deposit

A fast, hassle-free sale is often worth a discount to the seller at the right time.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Make a Lower Offer

Many buyers hesitate to negotiate - but it’s expected in most used car sales.

Start slightly below the asking price (but keep it realistic), and support your offer with:

• Market comparisons
• The car’s condition
• Any repairs or costs involved

A well-reasoned offer is far more likely to be taken seriously.

6. Be Willing to Walk Away

If the price isn’t right, be prepared to walk away.

This shows you’re not desperate - and it shifts the balance of power in your favour.

In some cases, sellers will reconsider the offer once you’ve left, especially if they don’t have other strong buyers.

7. Leave Your Offer on the Table (With a Deadline)

Walking away doesn’t mean losing the deal — it could actually help you win it.

If your offer isn’t accepted, leave it with the seller along with your contact details and a clear timeframe.

For example:

“No worries if that doesn’t work for you right now. If you change your mind by Friday, I’m happy to go ahead at $14,500 — here are my details.”

This may work because:

• It removes pressure while keeping the door open
• It creates urgency (your offer won’t last forever)
• It positions you as a serious, ready buyer

Some sellers will come back within that window - especially if your offer is fair.

8. Use Finance Pre-Approval as Leverage

This is where many buyers either win or lose the deal.

When you’re finance-ready:

• You can negotiate like a cash buyer
• You can act quickly when the seller hesitates
• You’re taken more seriously from the start

Without finance in place, even a good negotiation can fall apart — or cost you the deal entirely.

Final Thoughts

Getting a discount on a used car isn’t about being aggressive — it’s about being prepared and knowing how to handle the moment.

The strongest buyers all have the following in common:

• They know the market
• They stay calm and confident
• They’re ready to act when the opportunity is there

When you combine these with the right timing and approach, you give yourself the best chance of securing a great deal.

Ready to Negotiate Like a Serious Buyer?

Before you start inspecting cars, it helps to know exactly what you can afford — and be ready to move when the right deal appears.

With a simple online application from Money3, you could:

• Understand your budget upfront
• Strengthen your negotiating position
• Move quickly when a seller says yes

Apply online today and take control of your next car purchase.

1. Subject to verification, suitability and affordability
5. This information is general in nature and is for information purposes only. It is not financial advice.