More advice wanted...

TruckNitz · 10-10-2004, 02:44 PM

I know, I am a needy truck buyer. I really can't say how much this site is helping me become more informed about my impending purchase. Anyway...

I am purchasing a 2004 Titan LE CC 4x4 within the next 30 days. Not sure how I am going to acquire it yet (Financing + trade, cash + trade??, sell my old truck etc.) My question is this: If I walk into my dealer with a laundry list of potential problems (as aired here at TitanTalk) that have not been investigated on this Titan I am considering buying, how productive would that be?

Obviously, I think it would only be smart to run over this truck with a fine tooth comb and identify any existing flaws, but I am trying not to get to anal about it. ANother good idea might be to get a service technician to look at it with me. Anything regarding this is helpful. THank ye'!

Tom Roper · 10-10-2004, 03:06 PM

It would be a waste of time to negotiate over flaws. You can expect to be paid lip service if you do. Decide beforehand if the truck you are considering is worth making an offer on, or not.

If you carry your proof of insurance with you, you can test drive the vehicle without a salesman. Keep your laundry list in mind as you drive. If you identify some flaws, ask yourself:

1.) Can I live with it?
2.) Is the truck otherwise worth getting?
3.) Is it worth my time to let them try to fix it?
4.) Do I think they *can* fix it?
5.) Should I try a different truck?

Nothing wrong with being anal about it, but it will not be productive to argue with the dealer over the flaws. Find one that meets your criteria, and negotiate on THAT one. It's not a joint decision with the dealer. It's YOUR decision. Act selfishly. He doesn't have to know what you are thinking, and usually it's better if he doesn't.

**CaliforniaTitan** · 10-10-2004, 04:59 PM

Tom put this very well...

Chris

rcflier_97 · 10-10-2004, 05:06 PM

I think that a lot rests on when the truck was produced. My Titan was born on Sep 27 04, but after being a member of TitanTalk, I've read most of the posts- so I am forewarned about possible problems. But, also remember that not EVERYONE is having problems or even a small amount of the problems posted. Every truck is different and maybe you'll be lucky to geat a really great one. I do know that waiting so late into the production year, you might not be able to get what you want on your truck and may be stuck with more things than you want or less.

TruckNitz · 10-10-2004, 08:20 PM

Thanks folks.

keiffers · 10-11-2004, 03:27 PM

If you go into the dealer with problems, trust me they will have an answer/excuse for everyone of them....most salesman don't give a rats a$$ about the problems...they're only out to get that sale and pad their pockets some more - granted yes there are some that truly care and will shoot the bull with you, etc, but problems to a salesman mean nothing

*Titan Critter* · 10-11-2004, 10:05 PM

if you want the truck but are afraid of the problems, try an 05 when they come out. hopefully there will be less problems in that model.