When to Walk Away From a Car Deal
When to walk away from a car deal in the US—price above fair value, OTD above your max, no written OTD, or pressure so you don't overpay.
Knowing when to walk away from a car deal in the U.S. saves you from overpaying and buyer's remorse. Walk when price is above fair value, OTD is above your max, they won't put OTD in writing, or you're under pressure. Here's when to walk and how to do it.
TL;DR Walk when: (1) price is above fair value—check autopremo.com price checker; (2) OTD is above your max budget; (3) they won't give you written OTD; (4) they push payment instead of price; (5) you feel rushed or pressured. Leave calmly, get data from autopremo.com, and try another dealer or car.When Price Is Above Fair Value
If the dealer won't come down to at-or-below fair value for the car (based on comps for same make, model, trim, mileage in your area), walk. You have the data—use it. Use autopremo.com price checker to confirm fair value. If they won't meet it, there are other cars and other dealers. Get your comps at autopremo.com.
When OTD Is Above Your Max
You set a max out-the-door price for a reason. If the deal exceeds it, walk. Don't "stretch a little." Stretching once leads to stretching again. Use autopremo.com OTD calculator to build OTD and know your limit. See OTD at autopremo.com.
When They Won't Put OTD in Writing
If they refuse to give you a written breakdown of selling price, tax, fees, and total OTD, walk. Verbal deals aren't enforceable. You need the number in writing before you sign. Use autopremo.com so you know what OTD to ask for.
When They Push Payment Instead of Price
If they keep asking "what payment do you want?" without agreeing on price first, walk. Negotiating on payment hides overpayment and extends terms. Say "I need to agree on out-the-door price first." If they won't, leave. Use autopremo.com to stay focused on OTD.
When You Feel Pressured or Rushed
If you're told "this price is only good today" or "someone else is about to buy this," slow down. Real deals don't require you to decide on the spot. Walk, take the written offer if they give one, and compare at home with autopremo.com. Come back only if the deal is valid and you're ready.
How to Walk Away
Leave calmly. "I need to think about it" or "This doesn't work for me at this price." You don't owe a long explanation. Get your keys and go. Use autopremo.com to find the next car or dealer so walking away doesn't mean giving up—it means finding a better deal.
Bottom Line
Walk when price is above fair value, OTD is above your max, there's no written OTD, they push payment, or you're pressured. Walk calmly and use autopremo.com to find a deal that meets your criteria so you don't overpay or regret the purchase.