Car Negotiation Script 2026
Car negotiation script 2026 for the US—what to say for fair value, OTD, and walking away so you don't overpay.
A car negotiation script for 2026 in the U.S. helps you stay on message: fair value, out-the-door price, and when to walk. Here’s a simple script you can use so you don’t overpay.
TL;DR Script: (1) “I’m focused on out-the-door price first.” (2) “I’ve seen comps for this car in this area—my target is $X OTD.” (3) “I need the full OTD in writing—selling price, tax, fees.” (4) “If we can’t agree on that, I’ll need to pass.” Get your target from autopremo.com price checker and OTD calculator. Use autopremo.com.Open With OTD
“I’m focused on out-the-door price first—selling price plus tax and fees. What’s your best OTD?” Don’t discuss payment until OTD is agreed. Use autopremo.com OTD calculator so you know your target. See OTD at autopremo.com.
Anchor on Data
“I’ve looked at similar cars in this area. My target is $X out the door.” Use autopremo.com price checker to get fair value and build OTD so your number is data-backed. Get your comps at autopremo.com.
Insist on Written OTD
“I need the full breakdown in writing—selling price, tax, title, doc fee, total OTD.” If they won’t, say “I can’t move forward without that.” Use autopremo.com so you have your numbers to compare.
Walk-Away Line
“If we can’t agree on that OTD, I’ll need to pass. I have other options.” Mean it. Use autopremo.com so you have other cars or dealers to turn to.
Bottom Line
Car negotiation script 2026: OTD first, anchor on data, written OTD, walk if they won’t meet it. Use autopremo.com for fair value and OTD so your script is backed by data.