Negotiation Scripts

Don't know what to say? Read from the script. These templates are designed to strip away dealer leverage and keep you in control.

Why negotiate by email?

It removes the pressure of face-to-face sales tactics. You can compare quotes easily, take your time, and avoid emotional decisions.

Initial Price Quote Request
Send to 3-5 dealerships simultaneously
Subject: Quote Request - [Year] [Make] [Model] [Trim]

Hello,

I'm in the market for a [Year] [Make] [Model] [Trim] and am requesting price quotes from several dealerships in the area. I'm a serious buyer ready to purchase within the next [timeframe, e.g., "two weeks"].

Specifically, I'm looking for:
- Color: [preferred color(s)]
- Interior: [leather/cloth, color]
- Options: [list any must-have options]

I would like your best out-the-door price, including:
- Vehicle price
- All taxes
- All fees (documentation, registration, etc.)
- Any dealer-installed accessories

Please do not include any optional add-ons like extended warranties, paint protection, or nitrogen tires in the quote.

I have pre-approved financing, but I'm happy to consider dealer financing if you can beat my rate of [X]%.

I'll be comparing quotes from multiple dealers and will purchase from whoever offers the best overall value. Please respond with your best price by [date].

Thank you,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
Counter Offer Email
Use when you have a lower quote from another dealer
Subject: Re: Quote Request - [Year] [Make] [Model]

Hi [Salesperson Name],

Thank you for your quote of $[their price] out-the-door for the [Year] [Make] [Model].

I've received a lower quote from another dealer in the area for $[lower price] out-the-door on an identical vehicle (same trim, same options). I prefer working with your dealership based on [reviews/location/previous experience], but I'll need you to be competitive on price.

Can you match or beat the $[lower price] out-the-door price? If so, I'm ready to come in and complete the purchase this week.

Please let me know by [date].

Thank you,
[Your Name]
Final Price Confirmation
Before visiting the dealership
Subject: Confirming Purchase Details - [Date/Time]

Hi [Salesperson Name],

Thank you for working with me on this deal. I'm planning to come in on [date] at [time] to complete the purchase.

Before I arrive, I'd like to confirm the following details in writing:

Vehicle: [Year] [Make] [Model] [Trim]
VIN: [VIN number if known]
Stock #: [Stock number]

Agreed Out-the-Door Price: $[amount]
This includes:
- Vehicle price: $[amount]
- Tax: $[amount]
- Doc fee: $[amount]
- Registration: $[amount]
- [Any other agreed items]

I am NOT purchasing:
- Extended warranty
- Paint protection
- Fabric protection
- Nitrogen tires
- Any other add-on products

Please confirm these details are correct. I'll bring a cashier's check for the full amount when I arrive.

Thank you,
[Your Name]
Yo-Yo / Spot Delivery Response
When the dealer calls saying 'financing fell through'
Subject: RE: Financing Issue - Formal Response

Dear [Dealership Name] Management,

I am writing in response to your phone call on [date] stating that my financing for the [Year] [Make] [Model] (VIN: [VIN]) "did not go through" and requesting that I return to sign new paperwork.

Let me be clear about my position:

1. I signed a valid Retail Installment Sales Contract on [original purchase date] for the agreed terms:
   - Sale Price: $[amount]
   - APR: [rate]%
   - Monthly Payment: $[amount]
   - Term: [X] months

2. I took delivery of the vehicle in good faith based on this signed agreement.

3. I am NOT agreeing to renegotiate the terms of a signed contract. I have two options for you:

   OPTION A: Honor the original signed contract as written.

   OPTION B: Rescind the sale entirely. If you choose this option, I will return the vehicle within 24 hours of receiving written confirmation that:
   - My full down payment of $[amount] will be refunded via certified check
   - My trade-in vehicle will be returned in the same condition
   - All documents I signed will be voided and returned to me
   - No negative marks will appear on my credit report

Please respond in writing to this email within 48 hours with your decision.

If I do not receive a satisfactory response, I will:
- File a complaint with the [State] Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division
- File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission
- Consult with an attorney regarding potential violations of consumer protection laws
- Leave detailed reviews on Google, Yelp, and DealerRater documenting this experience

I have retained copies of all signed documents and this correspondence for my records.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

CC: [State] Attorney General's Office (if no response within 48 hours)