Contents
In short
- Negotiate with numbers, not feelings: market value, faults found, maintenance due.
- Do the full viewing before talking price.
- MOT advisories and known faults are documented: the seller can't ignore them.
- Make a precise offer, justified item by item, and leave room for a compromise.
- With a dealer, negotiate extras (MOT, service, warranty) if the price won't move.
Know the right price before you go
Compare the car with at least five similar ads: same model, same engine, similar year and mileage, same trim. That's your market value range.
A car priced at the top of the range should justify it: full service history, recent timing belt, new tyres. If not, you already have an argument.
Build your list of costed arguments
- MOT advisories: tyres, brakes, corrosion, suspension. See how to read the MOT history.
- Maintenance due: timing belt, gearbox oil, brake fluid, a major service soon.
- Known faults of the engine not proven fixed by invoices. See engines to watch.
- What you saw: scratches, worn tyres, weak air conditioning, a warning light.
The method, step by step
- Do the full viewing without talking price, noting faults as you go.
- Sum up calmly what you found and what it will cost.
- Make a precise offer based on that list: “With the timing belt due and two tyres, I can offer £6,200.”
- Let the seller answer without filling the silence.
- Leave room for a compromise.
- Be ready to leave: thank them and leave your number. Many sellers call back.
With a dealer
Dealers have less room on price but more on extras: a fresh MOT, a service, new tyres, a longer warranty or a better part-exchange value. Ask for the total price including all fees before negotiating.
Written by
The Carvizia team
Every day we analyse used car listings: engines, known faults, maintenance and market value. Our guides bring together what to check before you buy, without jargon.
About usFrequently asked questions
How much can I knock off a used car?
It depends on the gap between the price and the market value and on the costs you can document. A list of real, costed items is far more convincing than a percentage.
Should I mention my budget?
No. Start from the car's value and its costs, not from what you can afford.
Is it rude to negotiate with a private seller?
No, it's expected. Stay polite and factual: you're explaining what the car will cost you, not criticising it.