Bring a Wingman When You Buy a Car

What do pilots, police officers and car shoppers all have in common? They work best with a partner: a wingman. Car buying is a difficult process for many people, and although there is an alternate online car buying strategy that can save you much of the hassle, there are times when a trip to the dealership might be necessary.

That's when a wingman comes in handy. At some point in the purchase process, you'll want to take a test-drive. After that, you might need to negotiate or sign contracts in person. At times like these, it's better not to go it alone. But what qualities should you seek in the person who accompanies you? Not just anyone will fill the bill. Having the right person with you at the dealership can help you spot any inconsistencies in the deal, fend off potentially pushy salespeople and create leverage in your negotiations.

Choose Your Wingman Wisely

The ideal wingman or wingwoman is someone who has a skill you can put to use. Maybe it's a friend who is knowledgeable about cars. Perhaps it's a sibling who is a fearless negotiator. Perhaps it's an in-law who isn't afraid to ask stupid questions. But the wingman emphatically does not have to be a man. Sometimes a car guy can be a liability, particularly if he falls in love with a particular engine or vehicle and inadvertently pressures you into accepting a car that may not best fit your needs. Whether your wingman is male or female, be sure to bring a person who can remain objective and has an eye for detail.

Once you've picked your wingman, you'll need to establish who will do what during the trip to the dealership. If negotiating isn't your strong suit, have your friend handle that aspect while you focus on asking questions. On the other hand, if you're comfortable with negotiating, let your wingman ask the questions and occasionally chime in with an opinion. Your wingman should supplement the skills that might not be your strong suit.

Stay in Close Formation

Don't let yourself get separated from your wingman. If you do, you'll lose your strength in numbers.

Consider what happened to an Edmunds editor and his girlfriend. They had completed negotiations for a car, but ended up spending an excessive amount of time waiting for the dealership to get the contracts in order. As they made their way to the finance and insurance (F&I) office, the editor made it clear that they didn't want to waste any more time and that they were not interested in being sold any additional services. The F&I manager agreed, but the moment the Edmunds editor stepped out for a cigarette, the F&I team began to push such products and services as paint protection and an extended warranty on the girlfriend. They were clearly hoping she'd be easier to convince.

If you will be test-driving the vehicle during your visit, start by having your wingman keep an eye out for any potential dealer add-ons as you review the car's features. During the test-drive itself, ask the salesperson to ride in the back. This allows you and your wingman to pay closer attention to the car. You might still get the sales pitch, but it is easier to tune out a salesperson when he's in the backseat, rather than at your elbow.

Deploy the Lukewarm Wingman

A wingman can help take some of the heat off you by being lukewarm about the car during discussions. Arrange to have him casually mention that he isn't that interested in this particular vehicle — whether he means it or not. Or he can say that he preferred that blue one you saw at the dealership across town. Follow your wingman's lead and keep your own passion for the car in check. This will let the salesperson know that you have other buying options and it puts the pressure on him to make you a better offer. Remaining noncommittal defuses one of the salesperson's most effective weapons: the knowledge that you really want the car in his showroom.

Review the Numbers Together

When it's time to talk numbers, a wingman can either take over the negotiating for you or help spot any inconsistencies in the numbers. While you're busy saying "No" to items in the F&I room, your wingman can make sure that the prices you've agreed upon are reflected in the contract. Pay close attention to any additional car buying fees that appear and don't hesitate to question anything out of the ordinary.

After the ink on the contract has dried, you'll be able to rest easy, knowing that your wingman helped you get a better deal, spotted an inconsistency or was simply there for moral support. Be sure to thank your wingman and remember what you learned from the experience. You might have to return the favor when it's his or her time to buy a car.